| Can I take less than 12 units a quarter? Students that wish to take fewer than 12 units must apply for Part-Time Study which is approved only under specific university guidelines. Students that are not approved for part-time study will be placed on probation if they complete fewer than 12 units. Housing and financial aid may also be impacted and students should consult with those offices. Students that are having trouble enrolling in 12 units should consult with their academic advisor for suggestions. A number of workload credit options are available for students to meet their unit minimums. |
Under University policy, a formal part-time study program with reduced fees is available with the approval of the student's academic dean. Part-Time Reduced Fee Study (PTRFS) may be approved only for reasons of occupation, family responsibilities, or health.
PTRFS is granted on an academic year basis (from the beginning of the first quarter of PTRFS to the end of the applicable academic year). PTRFS may be cancelled during the year with submission and approval of the PTRFS petition with the cancel box checked. Students must reapply for PTRFS each academic year.
Students approved for PTRFS are eligible for the University's student health insurance coverage and may use the Student Health Center facilities.
Students receiving financial aid should check with the Financial Aid Office before filing for PTRFS to determine how their financial aid award will be affected. In most cases, part-time enrollment affects eligibility for deferment of repayment of student loans.
Students attending UCI on the F1 student visa must enroll full-time (12 or more units).
When PTRFS is approved:
Students can get a petition for Part-Time Reduced Fee Study (PTRFS) at the Office of the Registrar or at the Student Affairs Office.
All students are expected to observe the campuswide fee payment and enrollment deadlines. Students assessed full registration fees may have the assessment changed before paying fees to the Cashier's Office by submitting the PTRFS petition before the fee payment deadline. Don't wait until the last day; allow sufficient time for review processes and approvals.
PTRFS may be submitted after registration fees are paid. The petition is due in the Registrar's Office no later than 5:00 p.m. Friday of the third week of classes. Students are liable for full registration fees if their course enrollment exceeds the limit for participants of PTRFS (see above) any time after 5:00 p.m. Friday of the third week of classes.