Course and Credit Guidelines

Before You Register

Check course availability.
Courses without enrollment limits do not close. For courses that have limited enrollment, you should register online and early. See registering for limited-enrollment courses for more information, including waitlist guidelines.
Take placement tests and review prerequisites.
Placement tests and proof of English proficiency are required for some courses. In addition, many courses have prerequisites, which are noted in course descriptions. You are not required to prove that you have the prerequisites, but you should be adequately prepared for your courses.
Decide on undergraduate, graduate, or noncredit status.
Courses are offered at one or more credit levels: undergraduate, graduate, or noncredit. If you want to earn academic credit and grades, choose undergraduate or graduate credit. Noncredit students do not receive grades. Learn more about credit status.
Degree and certificate candidates: review your requirements.
Be sure to consult your program requirements. The degree and certificate course search (see Courses) can help you choose appropriate courses.
International students: review specific guidelines.
International students from around the world are welcome to study at the Extension School. See International Students for information.
Research transfer credit.
Extension School credits are accepted at most schools; check your home school’s transfer policies before you register.

Keep your registration confirmation.
Your registration confirmation serves as proof of enrollment. Only students in degree, certificate, or diploma programs receive ID cards.
Learn about your ID numbers and PINs.
As a student, you have two sets of identification (ID) numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs) that grant you access to various secure online content and services. Learn about your ID numbers and PINs.
Note the deadlines for course schedule changes or withdrawals.

Please note: The Extension School may refuse registration to a student who has been required to withdraw from another Harvard school or course.