Full-time student status is defined as registration in a minimum of nine (9) credit hours during both the fall and spring semesters, or by enrollment for four credit hours during the summer semester. Enrollment in all summer sessions during a calendar year will be added to determine the total summer credit hours. (Not all SPA programs offer a summer semester option.)
International students on an F-1 or J-1 visa must remain full-time status during fall and spring semesters as required by immigration regulations. All other graduate students at SPA can switch between full-time and part-time each semester as needed.
Any changes in registration from full-time to part-time status may impact financial aid and merit award amounts. Please contact the AU Financial Aid Office at facounselor@american.edu for further clarification on financial aid awards, and contact the SPA Office of Graduate Admissions at spagrad@american.edu regarding merit-based awards.