Non-degree Students

Typically, non-degree students are those who wish to take courses for personal enrichment, certification or to meet pre-acceptance requirements for entry into a graduate degree program.  A non-degree student is permitted to take courses at ESU, but is not admitted to any degree-granting program.  Non-degree seeking students are not eligible to receive Financial Aid. 

Others who may be considered for non-degree status are:

  1. Students enrolled in degree programs at other universities who wish to earn credit to transfer to their home institution;
  2. Eligible senior citizens (see "Senior Citizens"); and
  3. High school students who wish to enroll for courses while attending high school (see "Dual Enrollment") 

Individuals who are interested in applying as non-degree students must complete a Non-Degree application found at www.esu.edu/apply.

When to Apply

Prospective non-degree applicants can apply starting July 2023 to be reviewed for the Spring or Fall 2024 semesters. The application is available online at esu.edu/apply.

Admission Notification

  • Applicants will receive communication throughout the admission process via the email address they provided on the application.
  • Applicants should keep their address updated with ESU and check their inbox and spam folders. Email any changes to admission@esu.edu with your full name and ID number.
  • Admissions decisions may be communicated by email or USPS.  Applicants can also check their status online at apply.esu.edu/apply/status

Senior Citizens

Pennsylvania residents 60 years of age or older with at least one year of legal residence in the state, who are retired, may enroll as non-degree students. Course registration is on the basis of space available and is processed as a course audit request. Fees will be charged, but tuition will be waived. Please refer to the "Non-Degree Student" section for application information. For financial and billing questions contact The Student Enrollment Center at 570-422-2800.