Non-Degree Application Process

In some cases, it is possible to enroll at the Graduate School as a non-degree student. Non-degree students receive a transcript and many of the benefits of being a Yale student, but do not earn a degree upon completion of their enrollment.

We offer three types of non-degree program:

• The Exchange Scholar Program: to be eligible, you must be enrolled at an institution that has a formal exchange program with Yale. Exchange Scholars may enroll in courses or participate in research at Yale. 
• The Visiting Assistant in Research (VAR) Program: if you are an advanced graduate student currently enrolled at another institution and wish to pursue full-time dissertation research at Yale, you may qualify for the VAR program. VARs are not eligible to enroll in courses. 
• The Visiting Student Program: if you have a bachelor's degree, you may apply to take courses at Yale with the permission of the program.  

Questions?

We are happy to assist you with your application. If you have questions, please contact us.