University of Wisconsin Stout | Wisconsin's Polytechnic University

Special Students

This diverse group of students may include midcareer professionals seeking certification for a changing technology, community members seeking courses for personal fulfillment, high school students taking classes not offered at a high school, guests and auditors. Special students may be admitted as enrollment management goals permit.

Undergraduate Special Students

1. To be admitted as a special student, simply indicate that status on the UW System Application for Admission (online form is strongly recommended, or our Re-Entry/Special Application [PDF]). You do not need to indicate a major, submit transcripts, take the ACT, or pay the application fee. High school students admitted as special students must gain the approval of their parents and their high school, and submit a high school transcript.
   
   
2. As a special student, registration in English and math courses will depend upon your UW System Placement Exam results.
   
   
3. You are not eligible for financial aid.
   
   
4. You are limited to six credits each semester (exceptions must be approved by the Office of Advisement).
   
   
5. You may apply to change your status to degree-seeking student after you have completed 12 credits in your special student status. You may accumulate a maximum of 29 credits as a special student.
   
   
6. To change to become a degree-seeking student, you will have to complete the application process required of new students by completing the UW System Application for Admission — submitting the appropriate information as a New Freshman or Transfer Student as required
   
   
7. High school students who wish to take classes at the university must rank in the top 50 percent of their high school class or have an ACT composite score of 22 or better, or SAT of 1030.

Graduate Special Students

Individuals who wish to enroll in graduate coursework for professional or personal development without pursuing a graduate degree should read "Non-Degree Seeking (Special) Enrollment" on the Graduate Studies website.

Youth Options

The Youth Options program serves high school students who wish to take classes not offered at a high school.

1. To be admitted as a Youth Options student, simply indicate that status on the UW System Application for Admission form. You do not need to indicate a major, take the ACT or SAT or pay the application fee. You must gain the approval of your parents and your high school.
   
   
2. Registration in English and math courses will depend upon your UW System Placement Exam results.
   
   
3. You are not eligible for financial aid.
   
   
4. You must rank in the top 50 percent of your high school class or have an ACT composite score of 22 or better, or SAT of 1030.

• Youth Options Program Course Selection Guidelines [PDF]