Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 13-credit rule?
Simply stated, the University's 13-credit rule requires undergraduate freshmen or transfer students beginning at the U of M to register for a minimum of 13 credits each semester. However, part-time students are welcome at the University and can easily petition the College of Continuing Education for part-time status. For more details about this rule, visit One Stop.
Are there resources available to help me succeed as an adult student?
While most adults are apprehensive about going back to school, they tend to do well and enjoy being back in a learning environment. And, although you probably already have all of the skills to be successful, such as the abilities to manage time, multi-task, and ask questions, you can visit Return to Learning for helpful tips about returning to learning and succeeding as an adult student.
What is the senior citizen discount?
If you are aged 62 or older and a Minnesota resident, you may audit courses free of charge or take courses for credit at $10 per credit whenever space is available after the first day of class. For details about the Senior Citizen Education Program (SCEP), including registration schedules, visit the One Stop SCEP page.
Can I audit a course?
In some cases, you can choose to take a course but receive no credit or grade. You should consult with the instructor before registering as an auditor. If you are 62 or older and a Minnesota resident, you may audit courses free of charge. Otherwise, you pay the same tuition and fees. Although you do not receive credit for the course, the credit value counts in determining the credit total for the Student Services Fee. For information on and deadlines for changing your grading options, visit One Stop.
Do I need to be an admitted U of M student to take College of Continuing Education credits?
No, you do not need to be admitted to the University or to a particular program to take College of Continuing Education courses. The College of Continuing Education provides access to University courses to a broad range of individuals, including students registered in other colleges and universities and people not currently affiliated with any educational institution. If you are not officially admitted and want to register in a University of Minnesota class for credit, you are eligible to register in courses that have seats reserved for non-admitted students.
Will credits I earn from the College of Continuing Education transfer to another college?
The University of Minnesota is fully accredited. Courses taken through the College of Continuing Education are University of Minnesota courses and are recorded on an official transcript. If you want to transfer credits to another program or degree, speak with an academic adviser (or Registrar) at that college or university before registering. Only the college being asked to accept the credits is able to approve their transfer for meeting degree requirements.
