The graduate special classification is for students who have earned a bachelor's degree and wish to take graduate courses without enrolling in a graduate program leading to an advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.). These students are usually referred to as grad specials or non-degree-seeking students.
Applicants who do not currently meet the requirements for admission to regular graduate standing may also apply for graduate special status. However, admission to graduate special status does not constitute admission to graduate standing in the graduate school. All non-degree students are governed by University regulations, including academic warning and probation, and are encouraged to seek official admission at the earliest possible date.
Graduate special students must take a minimum of 1 credit per semester to maintain an active account with the University. If the student does not register for a minimum of 1 credit for the following semester, the account is closed, and the student must submit a new application and application fee in order to take a class.