Non-Degree and Visiting Students

We're glad that you're considering joining the WVU community as a non-degree or visiting student. Our guidelines will provide you with the information you need to start your application. For assistance, please contact the Center for Learning, Advising, and Student Success.

Non-Degree and Visiting (Transient) Students

Non-Degree Students

Students are considered “non-degree seeking” when any of the following apply:

Are taking undergraduate courses without pursuing a degree.
Have a bachelor’s degree and are completing prerequisites for another program.

Important: Non-degree students cannot later switch to a degree program at WVU. Those seeking a degree must apply as degree-seeking for their intended term.

Visiting (Transient) Students

Visiting or transient students are currently enrolled at another institution and want to earn course credits at WVU to transfer back to their home school, including:

WVU Potomac State College (Keyser): Apply to Potomac State as a non-degree or visiting student.
WVU Institute of Technology (Beckley): Apply to WVU Tech as a non-degree or visiting student.

How to Apply as an Undergraduate Non-Degree or Visiting (Transient) Student

This application process is for courses at WVU’s Morgantown campus. Courses with section codes "T" (WVU Tech - Beckley) or "P" (WVU Potomac State College - Keyser) require application to the respective campus. Check course locations at courses.wvu.edu.

Application Steps

1. Determine Eligibility
- Non-degree and transient students must meet WVU’s admission standards.
- Non-degree students must request official transcripts from current/last institution attended or degree granting institution.
- Visiting (transient) students may submit either:
  - An official transcript requested from prior institutions, OR
  - A statement of good standing from your current institution's registrar office, or a similar unit, which must include your exact GPA.
- International Student Requirements
  - Provide an official statement of good standing from a university registrar or similar unit (which must include your exact GPA), with a minimum 2.0 GPA or request the university send WVU an official transcript.
  - Non-native English speakers must submit an approved English proficiency test score. Read the requirements.
  - WVU does not provide student visa sponsorship for international non-degree applicants.
2. Complete the Application
- Apply through the main WVU Application and pay the nonrefundable fee of $65.
- Create an application account (if new) or sign in to your existing account.
3. Submit Supporting Documents
- Non-degree students must request official transcript from current or last institution attended, or degree granting institution, to be sent to WVU at wvuadmissions@mail.wvu.edu or mailed to the Office of Admissions, address below. Transcripts sent directly from students are not considered official.
- Visiting (transient) students must submit a statement of good standing from a university registrar or similar unit (which must include your exact GPA) or request an official transcript be sent from prior institutions if prerequisite verification is needed.
- Documents can be sent to:
  WVU Admissions
  P.O. Box 6009
  One Waterfront Place
  Morgantown, WV 26506-6009
  Email: wvuadmissions@mail.wvu.edu
4. Application Review and Next Steps
- You are responsible for requesting supporting documents. WVU cannot request documents on your behalf.
- Complete applications are processed within a few business days. Haven’t received communication yet? Please check your spam/junk folder.
- Once admitted, students will receive a WVU ID number, MIX email account, and advising contact information.
- Students are responsible for course registration and withdrawals.

University Policies and Standards

As a non-degree or transient (visiting) student at WVU, you are considered a WVU student and must follow the same university policies, procedures, and behavior guidelines.

Course Withdrawal and Refunds

Course withdrawals follow the Office of the University Registrar’s policies and the withdrawal and refund policies of the Office of Student Accounts.
Deadlines for course withdrawals can be found under the Add/Drop Dates for Partial Term Courses in your WVU Portal account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to submit official transcripts for admission?

Yes. Non-degree students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Visiting (transient) students may provide a statement of good standing instead of transcripts.

How long is my student status active?

Non-degree and transient student status is active for one semester only. If you wish to enroll in another semester, you must submit a new application.

How much do courses cost?

Tuition is based on residency status (West Virginia resident or non-resident). Current tuition rates can be found at tuition.wvu.edu. Some courses may have additional fees listed in the course section notes.

Where can I view available courses?

Visit courses.wvu.edu. To find online-only courses, apply the following filters:

Campus: WVU Main/Morgantown Campus
Subject and Course Number (if known)

How are courses taught?

WVU offers courses in multiple modalities (in-person, online, hybrid). Online courses are accessed through eCampus, WVU’s web-based learning system.

Can I get a course syllabus for approval from my home institution?

Course descriptions are available in the WVU Undergraduate Catalog. Contact the course instructor to request a detailed syllabus.

Can I take graduate courses as a visiting (transient) or non-degree student?

No. If you want to take graduate courses, you must apply to WVU as a graduate student.

Can I reapply as a visiting or non-degree student?

Yes. You must submit a new application each semester.

How do I activate my account?

You will need to activate your account and log in to the WVU Portal to complete your enrollment steps.

Check your inbox for an email from Okta. This activation email will be sent to the address you provided on your admissions application.
Follow the steps in the Okta activation email to set up your account and gain access to the WVU Portal.
Contact the WVU IT Service Desk should you need assistance. Learn more about Okta and your WVU Login at the WVU IT Help Center, and find answers to common questions.

Is Duo Two-Factor Authentication required?

WVU requires Duo Two-Factor Authentication for security. To set it up, download the Duo Mobile app and follow the instructions at login.wvu.edu.

How do I register for courses?

Registration information is available on the Office of the University Registrar’s website.

What technology do I need for online courses?

IT recommendations and software access are available from the ITS Student Resources web page.

How do I find required textbooks?

Use Barnes & Noble WVU bookstore. Visit the bookstore website.

How do I request a transcript from WVU?

Transcripts can be requested via your WVU Student Portal Account or the Office of the University Registrar. Outstanding account balances must be resolved before requesting transcripts.

Do I need a Mountaineer ID card?

Some services, buildings, and proctored exams require a Mountaineer ID card. Learn how to get your student ID card.