Pros and Cons of Being a Part-Time Student: What’s Right for You?

A part-time student takes fewer credit hours than a full-time student. Most undergraduate degree programs consider anyone enrolled in fewer than 12 credits a part-time student. Since college courses are usually three to four credits, part-time students typically take three or fewer classes each semester. The criteria for part-time graduate students may be different. 

You may be a part-time student throughout your entire degree program or alternate between part-time and full-time status to accommodate your changing goals and priorities. According to the most recent back-to-school data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), of the 19.4 million students who attended college in 2020, 7.5 million were part-time students.

There are a number of benefits to attending college part-time, including:

Flexible Schedule

As a part-time student, you’ll have more flexibility with your schedule. Since you’ll take fewer classes each semester, you’ll be able to focus on other important aspects of your life, like your job, family, and hobbies. A part-time course load can allow you to learn at your own pace and avoid feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Lower Short-Term Costs

If you’re a part-time student, you’re likely to pay per credit for tuition. This means you’ll pay less each semester, saving money in the short term and spreading your education costs over a longer period. 

That said, earning a degree may cost you more in the long run. Full-time students who take more than 12 credits per term can count on significant savings, as many colleges charge a flat rate for 12-18 credits per semester. Part-time students, on the other hand, might pay additional fees for each semester they’re enrolled, adding extra costs. 

Ability to Work

With a part-time course load, you’ll have enough time in your schedule to work. Whether you need to maintain a job to support yourself and your family or wish to gain valuable, hands-on experience through an internship, enrolling in college part-time will allow you to do so. It’s a great way to further your education and earn an income simultaneously.

Career Advancement

If you already work in a field you enjoy, pursuing a part-time program may be just what you need to advance your career. You can continue to work and gain real-world experience while acquiring the new knowledge and skills that may open the doors to more responsibilities, promotions, and raises. For example, if you currently work in sales but wish to land a manager position or enhance your resume, it might make sense to complete a business management degree part-time.

Attending college part-time also comes with some drawbacks, such as:

Fewer Financial Aid Opportunities

Many colleges and universities require you to be enrolled at least half-time or a minimum of six credit hours per semester to qualify for certain loans, grants, and other financial aid programs. Therefore, if you only decide to take three credit hours per semester, for example, you may miss out on some financial aid opportunities. Also, if you’re a part-time student who works, you may not qualify for need-based scholarships.

Lack of Social Engagement

If you decide to attend college part-time, there’s a good chance you’ll live at home and commute to campus to take your classes. You may even take them online without ever stepping foot onto campus. This can lead to a lack of social engagement, which may make it more difficult to develop strong relationships with professors and peers.

Fewer Program Options

Not all degree programs are available on a part-time basis. If you hope to become a nurse, for example, you’ll find that some programs require full-time enrollment so you can complete your coursework in a certain time frame. Depending on your unique goals and desired career path, you might need to attend college full-time. 

Length of Studies

While taking your classes at a slower rate can free up your schedule, it will also prolong the amount of time it takes to complete your program. The longer you spend in school, the longer you’ll have to wait to begin working in your ideal industry and occupation. Increasing your length of studies may also lead to a lack of motivation and reduce your lifetime earning potential. 

Lower Chance of Degree Completion 

Since they typically juggle work, family life, and school, part-time students are less likely to graduate than full-time students. In fact, a study found that those who enroll full-time are five times more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree within six years than students who choose to study part-time. If you do become a part-time student, you’ll need to prioritize your studies so that you can graduate in a reasonable timeframe.