Choosing to go to college is a big decision. But there’s another important decision to make: will you attend full time or part time?
Typically, a full-time student is enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester, while a part-time student takes fewer classes.
This article can help you make the right choice for your needs. We’ll look at the differences in:
- Financial aid eligibility
- Time commitment
- Tuition costs
- Program length
- Personal responsibilities
We’ll also briefly touch on online programs, which are an increasingly popular and flexible option for both full-time and part-time students.
What’s the difference between being a full-time and a part-time student?
The terms “full-time student” and “part-time student” define the number of course credits a student takes per semester. Here’s a closer look at the definition of each:
Full-time student
- Credit hour requirements: Undergraduates usually need to take at least 12 credit hours per semester to be considered full-time students, while graduate students may be considered full-time if they’re taking 9 hours.
- What that means: As a full-time student, you’ll have access to more campus resources and activities. Your school will also likely expect you to be on campus more often and to be more involved in campus life.
Part-time student
- Credit hour limits: Part-time students usually take fewer than 12 credit hours per semester.
- What that means: Being a part-time student gives you the flexibility to balance your education with work, family, or other obligations.
Financial aid and tuition: Decoding the costs and benefits
There’s a lot to consider when you’re trying to figure out how to pay for college. Here’s a look at how your enrollment status might affect the amount of financial aid you can get, along with how tuition is structured for full-time versus part-time students.
Financial aid opportunities
Full-time students generally have access to more grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid. Keep in mind that many programs require you to maintain full-time status to continue receiving aid.
Part-time students may have fewer options when it comes to financial aid. If you’re enrolled part-time, be sure to research the eligibility requirements for any financial aid programs you’re considering.
Tuition structures
Full-time students are often charged a flat tuition rate per semester, regardless of how many credits they’re taking.
Part-time students typically pay by the credit hour, which may be more affordable at first. However, depending on the program, it can cost more to complete a degree on a part-time basis.
Time Commitment and Program Completion: Balancing Act
One of the biggest differences between attending school full-time and part-time boils down to time: how much time you have to dedicate to your studies, and how long it will take you to graduate.
Time to Degree Completion
Full-time students generally take at least 12 credit hours per semester and can often complete a bachelor’s degree in four years, assuming they take 15 credits each semester. If you take 12 credits per semester as a full-time student, you might finish in five years.
The faster you graduate, the sooner you can get out there and start your career.
Part-time students, on the other hand, take fewer credits each semester, which means it will take them longer to graduate. A master’s program might take you one to two years if you’re attending full-time, but three to six years if you’re a part-time student.
Balancing Responsibilities
If you’re a full-time student, you’ll need strong time-management skills to balance your studies with any extracurriculars, part-time work, and personal responsibilities you might have.
Attending school part-time can give you more flexibility to integrate your work, family, and personal life with your studies.
Experiential Learning and Campus Life: The Student Experience
Your experience as a student will be affected by whether you’re attending full-time or part-time. Here are a few areas where you might see a difference.
Campus immersion
If you’re a full-time student, you’ll likely have more opportunities for campus involvement, networking, and social activities. You’ll probably have easier access to clubs, organizations, and campus events.
As a part-time student, you might have less time for campus engagement due to work and family commitments. You can still participate in activities, but you may have to plan ahead to make it happen.
Internship opportunities
Full-time students often do full-time internships during summer breaks, which can provide great experience in their fields.
Part-time students, on the other hand, may be able to work internships into their schedules during the school year. That might give them an advantage when it comes to balancing school and work.
The rise of online programs: A flexible alternative
Online learning offers a third path beyond full-time or part-time enrollment. Online programs are flexible and convenient.
Working adults and people with other commitments may find online programs especially appealing. They enable students to study at their own pace and on their own schedules.
In 2019, more than 7.3 million students were enrolled in distance education programs. You can find almost anything online, from bachelor’s degrees to graduate degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours is considered a full-time student?
Generally, a full-time student is someone taking a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. This can vary slightly depending on the institution, so it’s always best to check with your specific college or university for their definition of full-time status. Some graduate programs may have different requirements.
What happens if you take less than 12 credits?
If you take less than 12 credits, you’re typically considered a part-time student. This can affect your eligibility for certain types of financial aid, scholarships, and on-campus resources. It might also impact your ability to live in student housing or participate in certain extracurricular activities.
How does being a part-time student affect financial aid?
Being a part-time student can significantly impact your financial aid options. Many scholarships and grants require full-time enrollment. Federal student loans might be available, but the amount you can borrow may be reduced. Check with your school’s financial aid office to understand the specific implications for your situation.
What is the difference between a full-time and a part-time student?
The primary difference lies in the number of credit hours taken per semester. Full-time students typically take 12 or more credit hours, while part-time students take fewer than 12. This affects financial aid eligibility, access to resources, and the pace at which you progress toward your degree. Full-time students often finish their degrees faster.
To Conclude
Choosing between full-time and part-time enrollment is a big decision. You’ll want to think carefully about things like financial aid, how much time you can realistically dedicate to school, tuition costs, how long it will take to finish your degree, and your personal responsibilities outside of school.
The most important thing is to align your enrollment status with your individual goals and circumstances. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here; the best choice depends entirely on your unique situation. What works for one person might not work for another.
Before you decide, research your options and talk to an academic advisor. Thorough research can help you make an informed decision and set yourself up for success.
Whether you go to school full-time or part-time, remember that either option can lead to a successful academic and career outcome. The key is to make a choice that supports your individual needs and aspirations.