What does it mean to audit a course in college?

I'm curious about auditing a course when I get to college. How does auditing work, and what are the pros and cons of choosing to audit instead of taking it for credit?

Auditing a course simply means attending the course as an observer, without being required to participate in assignments, exams, or grading typically associated with a credit-based class. This can be a great way to get exposure to a subject you're interested in without the associated grade pressure or workload.

Pros:

1. Exposure: You get to learn about the material or experience a subject that you might not have time to take for a grade.

2. No grade impact: Because you're not being graded, the course won't impact your grade point average.

3. Fewer obligations: You typically don't have to complete assignments or tests, so the course can be less stressful and time-consuming.

Cons:

1. No credit: Because you're not assessed, you won't earn any credit towards your degree.

2. Limited engagement: In some colleges, auditors are not allowed to participate in class discussions or group work, which can limit your engagement with the material.

3. Accessibility: Some classes may not allow auditing, especially those that are practical or have limited capacity.

To audit a course, you typically need to get approval from either the professor or your academic advisor, depending on your school's policy. It's worth noting that auditing policies vary by institution, so make sure to check your college's specific regulations regarding course auditing.