The Semester 1 census date is fast approaching. What does this mean and what do you need to do?
Published Date 10/03/2026
Feeling like you’re struggling to keep up with all of your classes? Worried about managing your workload? The last day you have to withdraw from a Semester 1 unit without incurring penalties is Tuesday, 31 March 2026.
Please bear in mind that if you're enrolled in a unit which falls under a different teaching period outside of standard semesters, you may have a different census date. You can check non-standard unit census dates here.
Why is the census date important?
Once the census date has passed, you are liable to pay fees for the units you are enrolled in. From that date, your attempt at the unit will also be recorded in your transcript, whether you pass, fail, or withdraw.
If you withdraw from a unit by 31 March:
Keep in mind that there are other factors you should consider while making changes to your enrolment.
For example: If you’re an international student, you might need to show ‘compassionate and compelling circumstances’ such as illness to withdraw from units. If you don’t show this, your request may be rejected or your visa may be at risk. It is important to understand the conditions of your visa and the consequence of withdrawing from a unit before you do so.
Luckily, the MGA advocates can answer any questions you may have about whether you should withdraw from a unit and what you’ll need to do about it. Just make sure you get in touch before the census date!
There are also University services available to help you manage your studies:
Do you have more questions?
If you are unsure about anything else to do with your studies, don’t hesitate to touch base with us at mga-advocacy@monash.edu.