Eligibility Information

A full–time BFA course load is normally 14 to 16 units.

A full–time MFA, MA or Advanced Certificate of Fine Arts student program is not less than 9 or 12 units depending on the program of study.

A full–time DMA student program comprises about 10 units.

We limit student course loads to no more than 20 units per semester due to the commitment of time, energy and resources a full course load already entails. We recognize that on occasion, students may wish to exceed the 20 units per semester limitation due to unusual circumstances. In that case, you will need to complete the Unit Overload Petition, which must be approved and signed in the following order by your mentor; the dean of your School; the Provost or their designee; and the Registrar.

BFA-1s, InterSchool students, part-time students, and those that had an NC grade at CalArts during the preceding two semesters are not eligible to register for more than 20 units.

To see if you are eligible to petition for a unit overload, please answer the below questions: