Non-Degree Students

As you plan your academic endeavors, you may seek courses or programs to begin exploring before you fully commit to pursuing a degree. At Abilene Christian University, we support the various pathways you can take toward an excellent education.

Non-degree students, whether high schoolers, students at other institutions or visiting scholars, can take courses for academic credit on a semester-by-semester basis. For learners of every stride, ACU has course opportunities that play to your strengths and allow your talents to flourish.

As you plan your academic endeavors, you may seek courses or programs to begin exploring before you fully commit to pursuing a degree. At Abilene Christian University, we support the various pathways you can take toward an excellent education.

Non-degree students, whether high schoolers, students at other institutions or visiting scholars, can take courses for academic credit on a semester-by-semester basis. For learners of every stride, ACU has course opportunities that play to your strengths and allow your talents to flourish.

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How to Apply as a Non-Degree Student

If you are enrolled with another institution, we recommend that you consult with your advisor before enrolling in an ACU course. Once you’ve verified that non-degree status at ACU is compatible with your goals, the application process involves three simple steps:

  1. Complete a Special Student Application.
  2. Submit your official high school or college/university transcript.
  3. If you are in high school, submit a letter of permission from your school counselor or principal.
A graduate student in biblical studies reading a book

Applying Later as a Degree-Seeking Student

After you’ve taken a few ACU courses, you’ll become familiar with our culture of rigorous inquiry and joyful creation. When you determine ACU to be the place to complete the remainder of your higher education, you can apply following the regular application process. If you are accepted, your non-degree courses will be added to your degree-seeking transcript. Previous admission with non-degree status for one or more semesters does not guarantee you will be admitted to your desired degree program at ACU.