Total amount of credits a student is enrolled in at a given time in a term, for example, after initial registration or at the end of a semester. All credits, regardless of grading status, count toward credit load for certain purposes.

• Maximum Credit Load: A student in good standing may register for a maximum of 18 credits during any regular session of fall, spring or summer semester and may register for a maximum of six credits in the January semester, no exceptions. A student who wants to enroll in more than 18 credits in fall, spring or summer semester must obtain written approval in advance from their faculty or academic advisor using the credit overload petition. Once approved, course(s) enrollment can be completed. Additional tuition and fees will apply. No overload petitions are accepted for the January semester.

• Minimum Credit Load: A specific minimum number of credits (excluding audit credits) that a student must carry to be eligible for certain programs and benefits. A student may register for or reduce a program below 12 credits in a semester with the understanding that for certain purposes he or she will be considered a part-time student. A student who reduces the credit load below 12 credits should check with the appropriate offices about the effect on financial aid, government benefits, athletic eligibility, health insurance coverage, and other programs with credit load eligibility limits.