During fall, January, and spring registration, the following guidelines can help you through the process.
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. Note that if a course is canceled, your tuition will be refunded in full, but you are responsible for textbooks, coursepacks, or other incurred expenses.
Review prerequisites and take any required placement tests
Some courses require placement tests and proof of English proficiency. Many courses have other prerequisites, noted in course descriptions. Although you do not have to prove you have the other prerequisites, you are responsible for ensuring you are adequately prepared for your courses.
Choose a credit status: undergraduate, graduate, or noncredit
Courses are offered at 1 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.
For Extension degree credit, choose courses that meet requirements
If you are earning a degree or considering applying to a program, review the program requirements and use the degree course search to ensure you choose appropriate courses.
Research transfer credit
Extension School credits are accepted at most schools. Check your home school’s transfer policies before you register.
Plan to attend all classes or withdraw by the deadlines
If you decide not to complete a course in which you enroll for credit, you could receive a failing grade if you do not withdraw by the appropriate withdrawal deadline.
Learn your ID numbers and PINs
As a student, you have 2 sets of identification (ID) numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs) that grant you access to various secure online content and services. See ID numbers and PINs.
Please note: The Extension School may refuse registration to a student who has been required to withdraw from another Harvard school or course.