Common Questions
How much does it cost to attend summer sessions?
The cost to attend summer sessions varies by credit hour and permanent place of residence. To see the rates for tuition and fees, visit the University Bursar site.
If I take classes during summer sessions, will they be easier than the fall and spring terms?
Courses taught during summer sessions have the same academic rigor and expectations as courses taught during the fall and spring semesters. In most cases, the professors for fall and spring also teach courses for summer.
Are online courses offered during summer sessions?
Yes. Many students find online courses to be flexible options during the summer, affording opportunities to fulfill multiple goals.
Is on campus housing available?
Yes. More information about reserving summer housing and purchasing a meal plan may be found here at Summer Housing and Dining Information.
If I take a course at another institution, will the grade and credit both transfer?
No. Virginia Tech, like most institutions, only accepts the transfer credit. The letter grade from the other institution is not calculated in your Virginia Tech GPA.
What is the maximum number of credits I can take during a single summer session?
The maximum number of hours a student may enroll in during a given semester is determined by whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student, as per below.
- Going above these maximums requires the academic dean's permission (graduate dean for graduate students).
- Undergraduates may enroll without permission in 19 hours; graduates, 18 hours in a regular term.
- Summer and winter maximums are 18 and 6 respectively.
Do I need to be a full-time student in summer sessions in order to receive financial aid and how many credits do I need to take in the summer semester?
No, you do not need to be a fulltime student to get financial aid. Undergraduate students must enroll in at least 6 credit hours and graduate students must enroll in at least 5 credit hours to receive financial aid. Check with your advisor in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to determine your specific financial aid eligibility and options.
I have not found the answer to my question concerning the course that I wish to enroll for summer sessions. What should I do?
If your question has not been resolved, contact the department that offers the course in question.
When will I get my bill for summer sessions?
Students who participated in course request will be sent a bill from the University Bursar. Individuals who enrolled in courses after the course request period typically are not sent a bill. In either case, students are expected to make financial arrangements prior to the beginning of each summer sessions.
If I am not a continuing student at Virginia Tech, how do I apply to participate in summer sessions?
All non-degree seeking students must complete an application through admissions at the Office of Undergraduate Admissions site.
What study abroad opportunities are available during the summer sessions?
Several departments throughout the university community coordinate study abroad programs that take place during the summer. For a complete list of future offerings, visit the Global Education Office.