Non-matriculated Vs. Graduate Non-matriculated Status

To take courses as a non-degree seeking student you must register as either a nonmatriculated (NM) student or a graduate nonmatriculated (GNM) student. The following definitions apply:

• You should register as a non-matriculated student (NM) if you are NOT planning to apply the credits you earn toward a specific graduate-level (master's or Ph.D.) degree. Most people will fall into this category. There is no application process to have NM status.
• You can apply to have graduate non-matriculated (GNM) status if you are planning to apply the credits you earn toward a specific graduate degree in the future. GNM status is an option for the MSIM and MLIS programs, but not Ph.D.

Learn more about the difference between these statuses.

GNM Status for Information School Courses

If you eventually want to enroll in a UW graduate program, and you want the courses you take here to count toward that degree (if applicable), then you need GNM status. GNM status does not guarantee admission to a graduate program.

At the Information School, GNM status is an option for both the MSIM and MLIS programs, but not PhD.

Learn about the application process and apply for GNM status.

Course Options

We offer NM and GNM options for both our Library and Information Science (LIS) courses and Information Management and Technology (IMT) courses.  The following guidelines apply:

• Nonmatriculated students are eligible to take approved on-campus or online LIS and/or IMT electives on a space-available basis with instructor’s permission.​
• Core LIS courses (courses typically ending in 0), independent study, fieldwork, and Capstone courses are not available for nonmatriculated enrollment.
• Nonmatriculated students are eligible for standby registration status; students are not officially registered until the 3rd day of the quarter.
• PhD (INSC) courses are not available through nonmatriculated or graduate nonmatriculated status.