In the upcoming school year, students will be able to add or drop classes without penalty for up to two weeks after handing in their study cards, and for a $10 fee after that period.

Students are currently required to pay a $5 fee after study card day—a penalty that increases to $10 after the third Monday in a term and to $15 after the fourth Monday. “It’s a simpler system and somewhat less expensive for students who want to make changes,” said Ryan.

Finally, Jane B. Calhoun, research officer for the Standing Committee on the Use of Human Subjects, told the Council about the merger of two committees charged with vetting science projects involving student research with human subjects.

Calhoun’s committee will be combined with the Committee on Student Research Participation, so that students who plan to conduct such research projects will need approval from only one body, rather than two. “It seemed more sensible to have both of those together because they are dealing with similar issues,” said Ryan. “It’s going to simplify the process for students who are dealing with sensitive issues.”

—Staff writer Joshua D. Gottlieb can be reached at jdgottl@fas.harvard.edu.

—Staff writer Laura L. Krug can be reached at krug@fas.harvard.edu.