You are here: American University AU Central Non Degree Student Registration

Back to top

First Time Non-Degree and Visiting Students

Students who wish to enroll in one or more courses at American University without formal admission may be eligible to take classes as non-degree seeking or “visiting” students. Applicationsfor Fall2024first time non-degree students are now closed. If you are interested in taking classes as a first time on degree student in the Spring 2025semester, theschedule of classes will be available in October.

Non Degree Application Process

How to Apply There are four steps to apply to enroll as a first time non-degree student.

  1. Review the Non-Degree Student Registration and Eligibility Requirements.

    Ensure you are eligible to enroll as a non-degree student.

  2. Explore the

    Be sure that you have reviewed and met all prerequisite requirements for any course you wish to take.

  3. Submit an official transcript (if applicable).

    Applicants must provide an official transcript from their most recent institution attended and/or the institution where any prerequisite requirements were completed. If sending an electronic transcript directly to AU, please email toaucentral@american.eduAttn: Shermin Modarres, First-Time Non-Degree Registration.A PDF of your official transcript can also be attached to your application.

  4. Submit Your Application to Enroll.

    • Go to
    • A prompt will appear on the screen. If you already have an AU account, you may continue.
    • If you do not yet have an AU account, click on theGuest login & registration (non-AU account holders)link to create an account
    • Login to the Just Ask Page using your Guest Registration or AU credentials.
    • Click on the link:Student Services & Academics
    • Click on the link:AU Central
    • Under Common Requests click onNon-Degree Student Enrollment Form
    • Complete form and submit

After You Apply Important information to review after you submit your application to enroll.

Registration for courses is subject to space availability and confirmation of eligibility. You will receive notification from AU Central with next steps in the enrollment process within 3-5 business days.

Payment for classes is due upon the first day of class.A monthly payment plan is also available. Failure to comply with payment schedules may result in a financial restriction being placed on your account which would prevent any future registration or proof of completion of classes, including an official transcript, from being requested.

If you need to change your schedule for any reason, please contact AU Central.Failure to attend classes or pay your invoice does not automatically withdraw you from classes. Your tuition will be refunded based on your withdraw date and theacademic calendar. Refund dates for summer courses follow a specialsummer calendar.

Additional Information

If you have taken classes at American University previously as a non-degree student, information concerning registration can be found on thenon-degree advising page.

Please note: Continuing non-degree students are registered by the department in which their classes are housed.

American University does not provide prospective non-degree students with immigration documents to apply for F-1 or J-1 student immigration status. If you require a student visa, non-degree study is unfortunately not an option. Please note that studying while on a B-2 tourist visa is considered a violation of immigration status by the Department of Homeland Security. Please contact our International Student & Scholar Services office to discuss what options may be available to register as a non-degree student. ISSS can be reached at:isss@american.eduor 202-885-3350.

Non-native speakers of English must provide proof of proficiency in one of the following ways:

  • A. Submit official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Pearson Test of English (PTE),orthe International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam.
  • B. Submit transcript or other proof student completed a high school, bachelor's or master's program from an accredited institution in the United States, or in countries where English is the native language
  • C. Documented interview with academic unit designee approving registration for requested non-degree coursework