Nondegree graduate student admission

Nondegree graduate student admission

Interested in taking a few classes but not ready to commit to a formal graduate degree program? Some academic units allow you to take courses without being admitted to a graduate degree program.

Admission standards

You must have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country.

Admission process

  • Submit an application for graduate admission, indicating nondegree on the application.

  • Pay your application fee.

  • Nondegree applicants do not have to send transcripts or supportive documents to be admitted.

  • Submit your application at least one week prior to the first day of classes.

Nondegree status restrictions

Being a nondegree student does not guarantee your registration. It is recommended that you check with the academic department offering the courses you are interested in to see whether or not you will be able to register before applying.

  • You may take as many courses as you would like as a nondegree student. However, if you wish to use the credits toward an ASU master’s or doctoral degree, you will be limited to applying 12 graduate credit hours taken prior to admission to your master’s degree or to a doctoral degree program.
  • Financial aid is not available to nondegree students.
  • International students on an F-1 or J-1 visa are typically not eligible to enroll in nondegree status. Secure written permission from your designated school official granting you permission to enroll in courses before you apply for nondegree admission.