> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-3/enrollment-and-registration/guidelines-for-registration-and-cross-registration/credit-load-policy.md).

# Credit Load Policy

**1. Purpose**\
The purpose of this policy is to establish a standard semester/trimester credit load for students enrolled in graduate degree programs in order to promote academic quality, timely degree completion, student well-being, equity, accessibility, and compliance with accreditation, financial aid, and federal regulations.

**2. Scope**\
This policy applies to all students enrolled in GSBS degree granting and certificate programs, including all master’s and doctoral programs regardless of delivery format (in-person, hybrid, or online).

**3. Definitions**\
\&#xNAN;*Full-time Enrollment*: Enrollment that meets institutional and federal definitions of full-time study for graduate students.  Full-time enrollment requires a minimum of 9 credit hours during one semester/trimester. 

*Part-time Enrollment*: Enrollment below the full-time threshold, e.g. less than 9 credits during one semester/trimester.

*Overload*: Enrollment exceeding the standard maximum semester/trimester credit limit.

**4. Standard Semester/Trimester Credit Load**\
\&#xNAN;*Full-Time Enrollment:* The standard full-time graduate course load is 9 credit hours in a fall or spring semester/trimesters. 

*Part-Time Enrollment:* Part-time graduate students typically enroll in 3–6 credit hours per fall or spring semester/trimesters.

**5. Maximum Credit Limit**

*Standard Maximum:* Students may enroll in up to 18 credit hours in a fall or spring semester/trimesters.

Note: The Student Information System (SIS) default will not allow students to register for more than 18 credits in a semester/trimester.

**6. Credit Overload Exceptions**\
\&#xNAN;*Eligibility:* Students seeking to exceed the maximum credit limit must meet all of the following criteria:

* A cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent)
* Evidence of satisfactory academic progress
* In academic good standing and have no outstanding registration holds
* Demonstrated ability to manage an increased academic workload

Approval: Credit overloads require written approval from program leadership and approval is not guaranteed. Approval must be received by the program leadership prior to the end of the add/drop period for the relevant semester/trimester. Requests made after the drop-add period will not be accepted. Students in their first term are not eligible to request a credit overload.

**7. Program Specific Variations**\
Individual programs may establish alternative credit load maximums (fewer than 18 credits). Program specific exceptions are documented in official program materials and may be less flexible and more focused depending on the program credit and graduation requirements.  Program variations are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure consistency with institutional and accreditation standards.

**8. Financial Aid and Compliance Considerations**\
Enrollment status for financial aid and visa purposes is governed by applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations.

Students are responsible for understanding how their credit load affects financial aid eligibility, tuition charges and immigration status (if applicable).