Community Scholar

What is a Community Scholar? 

Individuals may enroll in on Grounds courses on a part-time basis, without applying to a degree program, by registering as a Community Scholar through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. Many day and evening classes are open to Community Scholars on a space available basis and by permission to:

• Complete prerequisites for graduate or professional school
• Explore subjects for personal enrichment
• Attain skills for career development or advancement
• Earn college credit as a visiting college student or high school student

In the fall and spring, individuals may register for classes in all schools and colleges at the University, except the School of Engineering and Applied Science, School of Medicine, Darden School of Business, the School of Law, the School of Education and Human Development and the School of Data Science. 

Community Scholar students planning to enroll in the Summer term, with the exception of classes offered by the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, will need to register through the Summer Session Office, summer.virginia.edu.

See the full list of schools and the requirements for each school.

Instructor permission is required for all classes, labs or discussion sections. A copy of the email from the instructor granting permission will be accepted as proof of instructor permission. Additional signatures may be required by select schools and colleges (noted below), and for certain courses. Several schools and colleges restrict the number of courses eligible under Community Scholar.  

Individuals registering as Community Scholars are governed by the University add/drop dates and refund policies and are responsible for reviewing and abiding by Community Scholar policies listed in the University academic record.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

The University reserves the right to not enroll an individual based on class size or lack of prerequisite education.

Individuals with a minimum of a high school diploma may register in no more than two courses each fall and spring, along with any dependent laboratory or discussion sessions, for a maximum of 11.5 credits. All course prerequisites must be met, and proof of an undergraduate degree is required for graduate-level courses (UVA alumni do not require verification).

Academically advanced high school juniors and seniors may be granted permission to register in one course per term, after meeting all eligibility requirements. First-time high school and home school students must complete an interview and/or attend an orientation session. For more information please contact Kathryn Buzzoni at [email protected].

How Do You Register As a Community Scholar?

For New Students 

New community scholars wishing to enroll at the University of Virginia must:

1. Have an active student record in the Student Information System (SIS). New students will complete and submit a Visiting Student Form to request an active student record.
2. Obtain written instructor permission for each class in which you wish to enroll. Written permission must include course subject, class number and section. 
3. Complete the Community Scholar Registration Form or Senior Citizen Waiver Registration Form (students aged 60 and above) and submit it online, along with written permissions.
4. Pay all tuition and fees (if not approved for tuition-free registration under the Senior Citizen’s Higher Education Act). 

Some schools require additional permissions/steps.
See the full list of schools and the requirements for each school.

For Returning Students 

Returning community scholars wishing to enroll at the University of Virginia must:

1. Have their student record manually reactivated in SIS by SCPS staff.
   • If you have not taken a class in the past three semesters, you will need to complete a Visiting Student Form in order for your record to be term activated.
   • If you have taken a class in the past three semesters, you will need to contact [email protected] to have your record term activated.
2. Obtain written instructor permission for each class in which you wish to enroll. Written permission must include course subject, class number and section.
3. Complete the Community Scholar Registration Form or Senior Citizen Waiver Registration Form (students aged 60 and above) and submit it online, along with written permissions.
4. Pay all tuition and fees (if not approved for tuition-free registration under the Senior Citizen’s Higher Education Act). 

Some schools require additional permissions/steps.
See the full list of schools and the requirements for each school.

Requirements for High School Students

• Minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0
• Current high school transcript
• Signed Community Scholar Parent/Guardian Permission to Enroll Form
• Letter of recommendation from the high school principal, director, or guidance counselor attesting to the student’s preparedness and ability to be successful in the intended UVA course, and verifying that the course is unavailable through the high school

First-time high school and home school students must complete an interview and/or attend an orientation session. For more information please contact Kathryn Buzzoni at [email protected].

Requirements for Home Schooled Students

• PSAT scores
• Credit by exam
• Signed Community Scholar Parent/Guardian Permission to Enroll Form

First-time high school and home school students must complete an interview and/or attend an orientation session. For more information please contact Kathryn Buzzoni at [email protected].

Enrollment Requirements by School

Please click the school name below for additional information on enrollment processes and instructions.