What Does it Mean to Audit a Class?

I've seen people mention auditing classes and I'm not entirely sure what it entails. Could someone explain what auditing a class means, and how it differs from just taking a class for credit? I'm curious about why a student might choose to audit rather than fully enroll. Are there any pros and cons I should consider, especially since I'm trying to maximize my learning experience in college?

To audit a class essentially means to take the course without receiving a grade or credit for it. This can be a great opportunity if you're interested in a particular subject but either don't want it to affect your GPA, don't have enough room in your schedule to take it for credit, or the class isn’t required for your major but you have a genuine curiosity about the subject.

Your specific obligations as an auditing student can vary by each professor or university. In some classes, auditors might be expected to complete all of the same assignments and tests as the rest of the students, while in others, they might just attend lectures without participating in discussions or completing assignments. Typically, the expectations for auditing students are lower than those who are taking the course for credit.

Advantages of auditing a class can include expanding your knowledge and skills outside of your main areas of study, and exploring potential new interests without a formal commitment. Auditing can also provide some freedom to focus on learning without worrying about grades or academic performance.

However, there may also be some potential downsides. When resources are limited, students taking the class for credit often get first priority for course enrollment, meaning you might find it more difficult to audit popular or high-demand courses. And of course, since you do not receive credits for auditing classes, there might be little or no impact on your academic progression if you're trying to graduate in a certain timeframe. Also, it's important to check with your university about the impact that auditing could have on any scholarships or financial aid you might receive, as some may require a minimum number of credit hours.

Ultimately the decision to audit should align with your academic goals and interests. Be sure to check in with your academic advisor and the course instructor before deciding to audit a course, as they can provide advice specific to your circumstances and your school's policies.