Choosing whether to be a full-time or part-time student is a big decision when you’re thinking about going to college. Both options have their pros and cons, and what’s right for one person might not be right for another.
The main difference between a part-time vs full-time student really boils down to how many classes you take at once, which impacts things like how long it takes to graduate, how much tuition costs, and what kind of financial aid you can get. Your decision will also be influenced by your career goals.
This article will walk you through the key things to think about when deciding between going to school full-time or part-time. We’ll help you weigh your options based on your own life situation, finances, and what you want to get out of your education.
What do “full-time” and “part-time” student really mean?
There’s a difference between being a full-time student and a part-time student, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
What’s a full-time student?
The U.S. Department of Education defines a full-time student as one who is enrolled for 12 or more credit hours each semester. At most schools, that adds up to about 3 or 4 classes.
Being a full-time student usually means you’ll be spending a lot of time on your studies. Students who attend full-time tend to graduate faster, and they also have higher retention rates.
What’s a part-time student?
A part-time student is one who is enrolled for fewer than 12 credit hours each semester. If you’re juggling work, family, or other commitments, being a part-time student can give you more flexibility.
For graduate students, “full-time” usually means 9 or more credits, while “part-time” means fewer than 9. Part-time students may take longer to earn their degrees, but they have a lot more flexibility in their schedules.
Definitions can vary
It’s important to keep in mind that these definitions can vary a bit depending on the institution, the federal government (especially when it comes to financial aid), and the IRS. So, be sure to check with your school to see how they define “full-time” and “part-time” status.
Key differences: Time commitment, tuition costs, and financial aid
The main differences between attending school part-time or full-time involve how you spend your time, how much you pay for tuition, and what kind of financial aid you can get.
Time commitment
If you’re a full-time student, you can expect to spend most of your time on coursework, studying, and other academic activities. This may mean you’ll have less time to work or take care of other responsibilities.
If you’re a part-time student, you’ll be balancing your classes with a job, family obligations, or other commitments. To make it work, you’ll need to be good at managing your time and prioritizing what’s most important.
Tuition costs
Full-time students often pay a flat tuition rate per semester, no matter how many credits they’re taking. If you’re taking a full course load, this can be the more cost-effective way to go.
Part-time students usually pay tuition for each credit hour they take. While this might seem more affordable at first, it can really add up over time, especially if it takes you longer to graduate.
According to EducationData.org, the average tuition cost for in-state students at four-year public colleges is $312 per credit.
Financial aid and scholarships
Full-time students generally receive more financial aid than part-time students. For example, in the 2019-20 school year, full-time undergrads received an average of $14,940 in financial aid, while full-time graduate students received an average of $27,310.
Part-time students may find that they have limited access to some types of financial aid and scholarships. To be eligible for federal financial aid, you often need to be taking at least 6 credits, which is considered half-time.
No matter whether you’re planning to attend school full-time or part-time, it’s always a good idea to research the financial aid eligibility requirements so you know what to expect.
Full-time enrollment: the pros and cons
Deciding whether to be a full-time student or a part-time student is a big decision. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of going to school full-time.
Advantages of full-time enrollment
- Faster graduation. Full-time students can graduate in a shorter time period than part-time students.
- Increased access to resources. Full-time students often get first dibs on campus resources and services, such as tutoring, counseling, and career placement.
- Deeper dive into academics. Being on campus more often and taking more classes can help you feel more connected to the faculty and your fellow students.
Disadvantages of full-time enrollment
- Higher costs upfront. Because you’re paying for more classes, your tuition bill will be higher in the short term.
- Less flexibility. It can be hard to juggle work, family, and other commitments when you’re going to school full-time.
- Heavy workload. Full-time students can feel stressed by the time commitment and the intensity of the workload.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of part-time enrollment?
There are pros and cons to attending school part-time. Here are a few:
Advantages
- Flexibility. A lighter course load can give you the time and space to juggle school with work, family responsibilities, or other obligations.
- Lower upfront costs. Part-time tuition usually means lower tuition fees per semester, so you may save money in the short term.
- Opportunity to work and gain experience. You can keep working while you’re enrolled in school, and you may be able to apply what you’re learning in the classroom to your work.
Disadvantages
- Longer time to graduation. If you’re taking fewer classes at a time, it’ll take you longer to get your degree.
- Limited access to resources. Part-time students sometimes have less access to campus resources and services.
- Potential for burnout. Juggling work and school can be tough, and you might find yourself feeling burned out.
How to Balance Work and School
Whether you’re a part-time or full-time student, it can be tough to balance your schoolwork with your job. Here are some tips:
- Time Management: Learn to use a planner, prioritize tasks, and avoid procrastination. Time management skills are crucial for students with competing demands on their schedules.
- Communication: Talk to your professors and employers about your situation. You may need to ask for an extension or make other arrangements.
- Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities like sleeping, eating healthy foods, and exercising. These activities are essential for your mental and physical health.
- Employer Tuition Assistance: See if your employer offers tuition assistance. Many employers offer tuition assistance programs to help working professionals pay for college.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full-time or part-time student, anyway?
Okay, let’s break it down. A full-time student generally takes a minimum number of credit hours (usually 12 or more per semester) as defined by their institution. A part-time student takes fewer than that minimum, often balancing school with work or other commitments.
So, is it better to be a part-time or full-time student?
That’s a loaded question! It really depends on you. Full-time lets you finish faster, but demands more time and focus. Part-time offers flexibility, but stretches out your studies. Consider your learning style, financial situation, and life responsibilities.
What are the downsides of being a part-time student?
Patience is key! Graduating later can be frustrating. You might also miss out on some financial aid opportunities or have limited access to certain campus resources. Plus, it can sometimes be harder to build connections with classmates and faculty.
Wait, I’m still confused. What’s the core difference between part-time and full-time?
Think of it this way: full-time is like diving headfirst into the academic pool, while part-time is dipping your toes in. It all boils down to the number of credit hours you’re taking per semester and the time commitment involved.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to be a full-time or part-time student is a personal choice. It’s important to take a close look at your own circumstances, including your finances, your schedule, and what you want to get out of your studies.
Full-time students generally finish faster, but they may have to work less or take out more loans. Part-time students can juggle work and school more easily, but it’ll take them longer to get their degree.
Before you decide, do your research, talk with an academic advisor, and make a well-informed decision that fits your personal and professional goals.