New Students

Reduced Course Load

If you require extra time to complete academic courses for reasons related to your disability, you may be considered a full-time student (in regards to student loans) with a reduced course load. You will be assessed full-time fees.


Here are some generally-accepted definitions of terms you may want to become familiar with. Credits for each course load may vary by term and program. Please be aware that some funding sources may define these terms somewhat differently. This should get you started, though.

  • Full-time course load: 60% or more of a regular course load (typically 3 or more courses)
  • Part-time course load: 40% or less of a regular course load (typically 2 or less courses)
  • Reduced course load: considered to be full-time (in regards to student loans) for students with disabilities carrying 40-59% of a regular course load
You must advise the ALC team each semester if you require a reduced course load as this will affect your student loans.

Reduced Course Load status is specific to provincial student loans and grants. If you are enrolled in part-time studies, you are still considered part-time for university programs and services.

As a part-time student, your ULSU Health and Dental Benefits Plan may be impacted. Please email the ULSU at su.health@uleth.ca for more information about the status of your benefits and the options you have for coverage. Part-time students (such as those on Reduced Course Load) may to need to consider opting in if they do not have coverage under another plan. Additional information on the Health and Dental Plan can be found here: Health & Dental | ULSU including a link to the required form.