The “light load” (any course load below three courses) policy is designed for seniors in their last semester who don’t need a full-time course load to graduate. Students must engage with their academic advisor to review the impact on progress in their major, overall plan for completion, and determination of which course(s) should be registered in the semester. This academic plan should be referenced in the the petition for consideration by the Academic Progress Committee. Those approved for a light load may not transfer back additional credits earned at a different institution during the semester of the light load at Lafayette.
Please be aware that a light load can have implications for financial aid, NCAA eligibility, or international student status.
For consideration of light load with pro-rated tuition status, a petition must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office by the deadlines below.
The amount of pro-rated tuition per course is calculated by taking the total tuition per semester divided by three. In addition, the full amount of any applicable student activity/technology fee, mandatory flex dollar requirement, optional board plan and appropriate room fees will also be billed.
Students who are approved for light load with pro-rated tuition status should expect to have their grants, scholarships, and/or loans adjusted accordingly. Students must be enrolled at least half time to receive state, federal, and/or institutional financial aid.
Approval for light load status does not affect a student’s housing assignment. Full-time students who change to light load status for all or part of a semester will remain assigned to College housing.