As parents of students at the University of Delaware, we are deeply concerned and frustrated by the ongoing challenges our children face in registering for core classes essential for their graduation. Despite paying high tuition rates in—especially for out-of-state students—our children are repeatedly shut out of required courses due to ratio of students to classes this leaves them unable to progress in their academic careers as planned.

The situation has become even more dire as many students are being forced to consider paying additional, excessive fees for remote winter break courses to make up for missing classes, further burdening families already struggling with the high cost of tuition. For many, these additional costs are simply unaffordable. THIS IS NOT JUST FOR FRESHMAN AND SOPHMORES, JUNIORS AND SENIORS ARE ALSO BEING SHUT OUT AT REGISTRATION AND BEING FORCED TO WAITLIST.

Moreover, the lack of adequate advising once a student finds themselves in this unfortunate situation only compounds the issue. Students are left without the guidance they need to navigate their academic path, resulting in confusion, stress, and delays in their graduation timeline.

We, the parents, believe that a state university should prioritize student success by ensuring equal access when registering for core classes and providing effective advising services to help students chart a clear and manageable academic path. We are calling on the University of Delaware to:

1. Provide equitable access to required core classes for all students, prioritizing those needed for timely graduation, without students being forced to pay additional fees for winter or summer sessions.
2. Provide sufficient and accessible advising resources for all students, ensuring they receive the guidance and support needed to stay on track for graduation.