Skip to Content

Graduate School

Non-Degree Admissions

If you're not seeking a graduate degree, applying for non-degree admissions status can allow you to take classes for personal or professional development, licensure or re-certification or participation in an USC exchange program. 

Non-Degree Applications

Applicants with a bachelor's degree qualify for graduate non-degree enrollment privileges and may register for both undergraduate and graduate level courses. Non-degree enrollment is usually requested for:

  • Personal or professional development
  • Licensure or re-certification
  • Participation in a USC exchange program 

New Applicants

Use the Non-Degree Application 

Upload your transcripts or teaching certificate to prove that you have completed an undergraduate degree.

Former USC Grad Students and Current Applicants

Use the Update Request Form

Apply for  First-time Non-Degree Status through the Update Request Form if you are a former USC - Columbia graduate student or a current applicant with an active degree-seeking application on file.   

Did you have non-degree status previously, but were out for a major semester?  Were you admitted for non-degree status but need to change your starting term?  If so, select Renew Non-Degree Enrollment Privileges on the Update Request Form to reactivate your non-degree status.

Non-Degree Admission Limitations 

Before you apply for non-degree admission, be sure you understand the following considerations.

Course Limitations

Some courses are reserved for degree-seeking students. Check the Master Schedule for restrictions or contact the course department for more information.

Credit Limitations

Only six credit hours taken as a graduate non-degree student will apply to a future graduate degree program unless your program approves an exception.

Financial Aid Limitations

Non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid.


Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

©