Unqualified dropout terrified, to some extent (5)
I believe the answer is:
utter
'unqualified' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'dropout terrified to some extent' is the wordplay.
'to some extent' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'UTTER' is hidden within 'dropout terrified'.
(Other definitions for utter that I've seen before include "Say; total" , "Without a single qualification" , "talk" , "Positive" , "Thoroughgoing" .)