Can I take online classes as an international student?

Getting Started as a StudentMaintaining Legal Status
Written By Jennifer Glass

FAQ.

Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator of the International Student Resource Center

Last updated: July, 2026

 

Can I take online classes as an international student?

Yes, but only one online course (up to 3 credits) per semester can count toward your full-time enrollment requirement. You can take more online courses on top of that — those additional courses just won’t count towards meeting your minimum full-time load.

 

Full-time enrollment examples:

  • Undergraduate: 12 credit hours (9 credits in-person classes + one 3 credit online class)

  • Graduate: 9 credit hours (6 credits in-person classes + one 3 credit online class); may vary by school/program

So plan most of your schedule to be in-person or hybrid courses.

Jennifer Glass
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