Academic Information

Student Load Regulations

I. Maximum Student Load during Fall and Spring Semesters

An undergraduate student carrying twelve (12) or more units during the fall or spring semester is classified as a full-time student. A graduate or post-baccalaureate student carrying nine (9) or more units during the fall or spring semester is also classified as a full-time student. An undergraduate student carrying fewer than twelve (12) units or a graduate or post-baccalaureate student carrying fewer than nine (9) units is classified as a part-time student. These definitions derive from federal financial aid regulations and have no bearing on the definitions used by California to determine a student's liability for the state university fee.

The maximum number of units a student may take during the fall or spring semester is normally eighteen (18) for undergraduate, graduate, or post-baccalaureate students.

II. Maximum Student Load during the Summer Session

The maximum number of units a student may take during the summer term is one unit per week, plus one additional unit. Thus, the maximum number of units is normally seven (7) for one 6-week session, ten (10) for two overlapping sessions, and thirteen (13) for an entire summer.

III. Maximum Student Load during the Winter Session

The maximum number of units a student may take during the winter session is one (1) unit per week, plus one (1) additional unit. Thus, the maximum number of units is normally four (4).

IV. Criteria for Exceptions

For most courses exceptions to this limit will be made only on the basis of all of the following criteria:

1. Proven academic ability, i.e., a grade point average of 3.0 or higher;
2. Feasibility of completing the proposed schedule, e.g., no repeat/delete classes, no history of “W” classes;
3. Evidence that the overload is necessary to complete the degree in a timely manner (e.g., the student will complete the program within one additional academic year and all courses will count toward the student’s degree); and
4. Permission obtained from Academic Affairs or designee on or before Census.

Up to two (2) units above the maximum load comprised of university supplemental instruction, kinesiology activity, theatre arts activity, or dance performance and production units only requires permission from Academic Affairs or designee on or before Census.