Academics

International exchange students are registered at Boston University as full-time non-degree students. In accordance with Boston University and United States Visa requirements, all exchange students must register for a minimum of 12 academic credits per semester (typically this means 3 courses, however most students at BU are enrolled in 4 courses for a total of 16 credits). Four courses (4) is the maximum number of academic courses an exchange student may take in a semester.

Exchange students are permitted to enroll simultaneously in courses offered in several of the schools and colleges at Boston University.  For example, a student might select to enroll in courses at both the College of Arts & Sciences and the College of Communication during the same semester.

It is important to remember:

• We cannot guarantee enrollment in any course. Enrollment permission is often subject to class size limitations, the consent of instructors, and demonstrated academic qualifications in the form of prerequisites
• Not all courses are offered each semester and course offerings can change (cancellations and additions) at any time prior to the start of the semester.  You can search for courses using key words using the online Course Search function.
• Exchange students register for courses after matriculated (regular, full-time) Boston University students. You may find that certain courses are closed or already full. Upon arrival, the Exchange Coordinator will work with students to personalize and organize academic schedules. Students may also contact professors before arrival. You need to be flexible with course selection and schedules. We cannot guarantee enrollment in any course.
• Exchange students interested in taking courses at the School of Management (SMG) can register for undergraduate courses only (100-600 level). Graduate courses at the School of Management are NOT available to exchange students. Other course restrictions may apply. Exchange students may NOT register for the following SMG courses: SI 422, SM 121, SM 122, SM 299, MK 323, FE 323, OM 323, IS 323.
• The presentation below will guide you through the course selection and registration process.

How to Register for Classes

Please Note: Class offerings for future semesters may not be completely available at this time. Course offerings are available online on the University Class Schedule.

You may now search all course offerings for the coming semester using the new online Course Search function.

Download this PowerPoint Presentation and take it with you, or follow it below:

Online Resources

Course Registration Form (required form)
Searchable Course Descriptions
Searchable Directory
Important Dates
University Bulletin – Course descriptions and other information