This pertains to a Graduate School policy where graduate students need special permission to register for more than 11 credits. This is not related to issues of funding.
For purposes of The Graduate School policy, it is the total number of credits (not billable credits, etc.). Unfortunately, GRAD 601 (a 0-credit, 0-cost course) does matter here (it is functionally treated like 5 credits by the course registration system).
All graduate students, regardless of program or funding need special permission to register for more than 11 credits. The following reflects the most current (Fall 2025) process for obtaining permission to register for more than 11 credits in the semester.
It is assumed the courses you plan to register for are needed for the degree and in the program in which you are enrolled (HSP or ADP). If you intend to take a course that is NOT listed as a required course or elective course in your program manual, please discuss this with your faculty mentor and Graduate Program Director (GPD) before attempting to register in the course.
In order to gain permission to register for more than 11 credits, complete the Docusign form Request to Register for Excess Credits.
Important: This process provides permission to register; you must still register for the course. Watch your UMBC email for the RT ticket update giving you permission to add the additional course(s) and then please do so.
If you have any questions, please send an email to the GPC. In the email, please cc: your academic mentor and GPD, so they may be kept in the loop as well.
* If you need to register for more than 15 credits, you must contact your GPD in advance (and cc: your mentor) to discuss the intended course load.