How It Works - College
Independent Study courses are self-paced non-term-based correspondence courses using web course guides.
Because Independent Study courses are not term-based, they are not eligible for financial aid, and cannot be counted toward full-time student status at PSU.
You can begin an online course at any time and work directly with the instructor to complete the required coursework in one to twelve months.
Effective July 1, 2008, the six-month extension option is no longer offered.
Effective November 1, 2008, the print-based paper course guides will no longer be available.
Here’s what you do:
- Choose Your Courses and Register
- Read our course descriptions and academic requirements
- Be certain you can transfer the credits
- Register
- Choose your preferred grading option and course delivery option
- Choose credit by exam option
- Follow the Course of Study
- Complete assignments
- Send assignments to your instructor
- Schedule and take proctored exams
- Transfer Your Credits
- Talk to your advisor
- Grades
- Transcript Request
- Course transfers
- What if I change my mind?
You may transfer from one Independent Study course to another within 30 days after you register if you have not submitted any work. You may not transfer your course to another student.