Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to be admitted to a U of M degree or certificate program?
No. We accept registrations from everyone. If you want to transfer credits earned through Independent and Distance Learning to your program or degree, speak with an adviser at your college or university before registering.

2. Is Independent and Distance Learning right for me?
Taking a course through Independent and Distance Learning requires discipline and directing your own study. You will need to commit to scheduling a number of hours per week to work on your course. If you have some college experience, a GPA above 2.0, and can avoid procrastination and manage your time independently, you have a good chance of succeeding. To see if this learning style works for you, we suggest you register for only one Independent and Distance Learning course.

3. When can I register?
Registrations are accepted every day for extended-term courses, and new sections begin every month. Term-based courses have fixed semester terms and registration periods that match the University's regular academic calendar.

4. Will I get credit for this course?
The grade and credits you earn will appear on your University of Minnesota transcript and will count the same as course credits earned on campus.

5. Will these courses apply toward my degree or transfer to another institution?
Check with your college (or prospective college) adviser to verify that a course meets the specific requirements of your program or degree. Prospective University of Minnesota undergraduate students can contact the Office of Admissions by calling 612-625-2008, 1-800-752-1000, or TTY 612-625-9051.

6. Is it possible to earn a degree entirely through Independent and Distance Learning?
Students cannot complete an entire degree by taking courses through Independent and Distance Learning. However, individual courses can apply to a number of U of M degrees.

7. When do I pay for my course?
Submit no money with your registration form. You will have an online student account showing your charges and payment deadlines, on a password-protected Web site. You must check it soon after you register and recheck it regularly to find out about any additional charges. The University does not send out paper bills.

8. Is financial aid available?
There are no restrictions on financial aid for term-based courses. Extended-term courses, which allow nine months for completion, are not eligible for Office of Student Finance-administered aid. Other types of aid may be available; visit the Financial Resources Wizard or contact your financial aid program.

9. What if I want to drop a course?
You must officially cancel your registration in a course or withdraw from it in order to avoid receiving a grade of F or N. The terms of your cancellation depend on how long it has been since your term began (see Changes and Cancellations).

10. What happens if I don't finish a course?
Plan ahead to avoid this happening to you. You must cancel your registration officially if you intend to drop out of the class. If you wish to complete the course work but won't be able to do so during your term, you need to contact your instructor before the term ends to request an incomplete. Your instructor may or may not agree to an incomplete. If the instructor denies your request for an incomplete, the course will appear on your University of Minnesota transcript with a grade of F or N.