Graduate Student-at-Large: Returning Scholar - UChicago | Graham School
Source: https://graham.uchicago.edu/program/gsal/graduate-student-at-large-returning-scholars
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:35
Graduate Student-at-Large: Returning Scholar - UChicago | Graham School
We use
cookies
to enhance your experience on our site.
Skip to main content
Graduate Student-at-Large: Returning Scholar
Learning Never Stops
Renew your love of learning with a unique program aimed at personal growth through the Returning Scholar program at the University of Chicago.
Type
Non-Credit Courses
Enrollment
Full-time & Part-time
Application Deadline
May 19, 2026
Format
In-Person
Cost Per Course
$2,800
Apply Now
Request Info
Program Overview
The Returning Scholar program is crafted for lifelong learners, the intellectually curious, and those who want to revisit the rigor and excitement of the university experience.
Whether you wish to gain knowledge in a particular field of study, satisfy your lifelong love of learning, sharpen your edge in a singularly rigorous academic setting, or simply miss the challenges of an academic classroom, our Returning Scholar program allows you to explore UChicago courses without the pressure of grades or earning credit toward a degree.
Program benefits include:
Audit courses from across the University with UChicago students and faculty in a wide variety of disciplines.
Access an abundance of UChicago resources, including an email address and the libraries.
Gain exposure and access to top faculty.
Receive personalized academic advising and academic support.
Immerse yourself in the rigor and experiences only found at a top-tier university.
Take part in networking opportunities with influential professionals.
Apply Now
Attend an Information Session
Attend our upcoming Feb. 17 info session below to gain insights into the GSAL returning scholars program and how you can explore UChicago courses without the pressure of grades or earning credit toward a degree.
Register now >
I’m here for the pleasure of reading poetry, and that is really a wonderful feeling. For the past two years, I’ve taken intermediate and advanced Sanskrit classes through the Returning Scholar program. If Sanskrit can’t keep the mind sharp, very little can.
Ralph Strohl
Returning Scholar
The freedom the program provides really helped me focus on what I wanted for my research. Since you’re auding the classes, being a Returning Scholar is almost like a guided independent study.
Olivia Bitter
Returning Scholar
I felt l was part of a wonderful community. The professors that I have been fortunate enough to sit in on classes with have allowed me to meet and enjoy not only the class subjects, but the
wonderful young people in these classes. Age doesn’t really seem to matter as long as you never
lose that feeling of wonderment and curiosity.
Averill Leviton
Returning Scholar
Join a robust community of extraordinary faculty, alumni, and course offerings
Connect with an esteemed community of scholars, faculty, and alumni who share your intellectual curiosity and determination to continue higher education studies. Returning Scholars also have the opportunity to form connections by participating in academic workshops and joining social gatherings with other students within the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) bridge program. In addition to courses across the university, Returning Scholars have access to UChicago faculty and academic support. You will also work closely with the GSAL program admissions team to enroll in the suitable courses of your choice. Past scholars have taken courses in languages, humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, biological sciences, divinity, public policy, social service administration, and law.
Apply Now
Dedicated Team
The GSAL team, housed at the University of Chicago Graham School, has decades of experience in supporting academic student success. Team members will work with you to in exploring suitable courses, meeting faculty, and coordinating student engagement activities.
Esther Pandian-Riske
Director, Graduate Student-at-Large
Marla Privitera
Assistant Director for the Graduate Student-at-Large Program
Tom Shannon
Enrollment Counselor
Seth Green
Dean, University of Chicago Graham School
Michelle Libby
Graham School Dean of Students and Associate Director of Finance and Operations
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) and Returning Scholar (GSAL RS) programs?
GSAL students may take courses for credit, earn a letter grade for each course taken, and receive a transcript. GSAL: Returning Scholars may audit courses and get transcripts but do not receive academic credits or grades.
GSAL students are charged Student Life Fees, while GSAL RS students are not.
GSAL students may elect to receive USHIP Health Insurance or may waive it with comparable coverage.
Do GSAL RS students take courses with full-time and part-time University of Chicago students?
Yes. GSAL RS students take courses with both full- and part-time College, Master’s, and PhD students at the University of Chicago and are held to the same rigorous academic standards.
Will I get a degree from this program?
No, the Graduate Student-at-Large program is a non-degree program. You will receive an official University of Chicago transcript, which lists the courses you have taken.
What is the program tuition?
Details on costs for GSALRS can be found on our
tuition page
.
Do GSAL RS students take regular university courses?
You are able to take all available graduate, undergraduate, or professional school courses (except in the Pritzker School of Medicine) for which you have the prerequisites. In order to take any course, you must follow a particular department’s registration policy and obtain approval. Undergraduate courses require advance consent from their instructor.
Is there any way to meet fellow GSAL students?
The GSAL team hosts weekly happy hours to make sure GSAL/B/RS students have regular options to meet and connect with their academic colleagues. GSAL also hosts an annual seminar on exploring graduate school so students can learn about different fields of study and how to craft a successful graduate school application from program directors and admissions personnel. Additionally, quarterly workshops, mixers, and other social events enable GSAL students to build community and learn about campus-wide resources.
I plan to apply to a graduate degree program at the University of Chicago. Will these classes transfer? How many classes will transfer?
The University of Chicago degree programs will generally accept up to three classes to transfer. This varies by program and school, so we suggest that you contact the department’s graduate studies advisor for specific details.
As a GSAL student, will I have access to the libraries and athletic facilities?
Yes. You will have access to a variety of student services and facilities for each quarter that you are enrolled in classes. GSAL students can access campus libraries and have borrowing privileges with their UCID card.
Will I have an academic and graduate school advisor?
Yes. The director and her team of advisors are experienced in academic student success and will work with you to explore suitable courses, meet and converse with faculty, conduct research and student engagement activities, help with graduate school applications (including seeking faculty for letters of recommendation), and help you manage your work-life balance.
Where are classes held?
Most courses are offered on the main Hyde Park campus with the exception of a few programs which are offered online or located in downtown Chicago at either the Gleacher Center or NBC Tower.
I want to take business classes. Can I take courses at Chicago Booth?
Returning Scholar students are not eligible to audit courses at the Chicago Booth School of Business.
I want to apply to medical school and need one or two biology and chemistry classes that I didn’t take in college. Can I take these as a GSAL RS student?
Yes. However, undergraduate students have priority for undergraduate courses, so you will need to plan carefully to make sure that the courses you need will be available to you. You will also need instructor consent to register for undergraduate courses.
About the UChicago GSAL Programs
Since its founding, the University of Chicago has exemplified an unwavering dedication to intellectual exploration and the democratization of knowledge. Rooted in this vision, the concept of the “student-at-large” has been a cornerstone of the University’s mission, extending access to rigorous scholarship beyond traditional degree pathways.
Inspired by President Harper’s transformative ideals, the “at-large” model invites individuals of all backgrounds to immerse themselves in a world-class academic environment defined by inquiry, innovation, and excellence.
Established in 1994, the Graduate Student-at-Large program embodies this enduring tradition, offering unparalleled access to graduate and undergraduate coursework across a broad spectrum of disciplines.
GSAL Stories
Feb 24, 2026
Student Stories
From LSI Fellow to Returning Scholar: A Conversation with Michael Walsh
A conversation on purpose, intellectual vitality, and continuing the work of lifelong learning at the University of Chicago Graham School.
Read Now
Dec 13, 2021
Articles
At Last, Sanskrit
A Returning Scholar resumes his study of a classical language after a forty-year hiatus
Read Now
Dec 18, 2020
Articles
An Enlightened Retirement
A retired advertising executive goes in search of the Buddha.
Read Now
Ready to take the next step with GSAL?
Apply Now
This is the search overlay. Use the Escape key to close it.
Your Shopping Cart
Enroll Now
We use
cookies
to enhance your experience on our site.
Skip to main content
Graduate Student-at-Large: Returning Scholar
Learning Never Stops
Renew your love of learning with a unique program aimed at personal growth through the Returning Scholar program at the University of Chicago.
Type
Non-Credit Courses
Enrollment
Full-time & Part-time
Application Deadline
May 19, 2026
Format
In-Person
Cost Per Course
$2,800
Apply Now
Request Info
Program Overview
The Returning Scholar program is crafted for lifelong learners, the intellectually curious, and those who want to revisit the rigor and excitement of the university experience.
Whether you wish to gain knowledge in a particular field of study, satisfy your lifelong love of learning, sharpen your edge in a singularly rigorous academic setting, or simply miss the challenges of an academic classroom, our Returning Scholar program allows you to explore UChicago courses without the pressure of grades or earning credit toward a degree.
Program benefits include:
Audit courses from across the University with UChicago students and faculty in a wide variety of disciplines.
Access an abundance of UChicago resources, including an email address and the libraries.
Gain exposure and access to top faculty.
Receive personalized academic advising and academic support.
Immerse yourself in the rigor and experiences only found at a top-tier university.
Take part in networking opportunities with influential professionals.
Apply Now
Attend an Information Session
Attend our upcoming Feb. 17 info session below to gain insights into the GSAL returning scholars program and how you can explore UChicago courses without the pressure of grades or earning credit toward a degree.
Register now >
I’m here for the pleasure of reading poetry, and that is really a wonderful feeling. For the past two years, I’ve taken intermediate and advanced Sanskrit classes through the Returning Scholar program. If Sanskrit can’t keep the mind sharp, very little can.
Ralph Strohl
Returning Scholar
The freedom the program provides really helped me focus on what I wanted for my research. Since you’re auding the classes, being a Returning Scholar is almost like a guided independent study.
Olivia Bitter
Returning Scholar
I felt l was part of a wonderful community. The professors that I have been fortunate enough to sit in on classes with have allowed me to meet and enjoy not only the class subjects, but the
wonderful young people in these classes. Age doesn’t really seem to matter as long as you never
lose that feeling of wonderment and curiosity.
Averill Leviton
Returning Scholar
Join a robust community of extraordinary faculty, alumni, and course offerings
Connect with an esteemed community of scholars, faculty, and alumni who share your intellectual curiosity and determination to continue higher education studies. Returning Scholars also have the opportunity to form connections by participating in academic workshops and joining social gatherings with other students within the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) bridge program. In addition to courses across the university, Returning Scholars have access to UChicago faculty and academic support. You will also work closely with the GSAL program admissions team to enroll in the suitable courses of your choice. Past scholars have taken courses in languages, humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, biological sciences, divinity, public policy, social service administration, and law.
Apply Now
Dedicated Team
The GSAL team, housed at the University of Chicago Graham School, has decades of experience in supporting academic student success. Team members will work with you to in exploring suitable courses, meeting faculty, and coordinating student engagement activities.
Esther Pandian-Riske
Director, Graduate Student-at-Large
Marla Privitera
Assistant Director for the Graduate Student-at-Large Program
Tom Shannon
Enrollment Counselor
Seth Green
Dean, University of Chicago Graham School
Michelle Libby
Graham School Dean of Students and Associate Director of Finance and Operations
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) and Returning Scholar (GSAL RS) programs?
GSAL students may take courses for credit, earn a letter grade for each course taken, and receive a transcript. GSAL: Returning Scholars may audit courses and get transcripts but do not receive academic credits or grades.
GSAL students are charged Student Life Fees, while GSAL RS students are not.
GSAL students may elect to receive USHIP Health Insurance or may waive it with comparable coverage.
Do GSAL RS students take courses with full-time and part-time University of Chicago students?
Yes. GSAL RS students take courses with both full- and part-time College, Master’s, and PhD students at the University of Chicago and are held to the same rigorous academic standards.
Will I get a degree from this program?
No, the Graduate Student-at-Large program is a non-degree program. You will receive an official University of Chicago transcript, which lists the courses you have taken.
What is the program tuition?
Details on costs for GSALRS can be found on our
tuition page
.
Do GSAL RS students take regular university courses?
You are able to take all available graduate, undergraduate, or professional school courses (except in the Pritzker School of Medicine) for which you have the prerequisites. In order to take any course, you must follow a particular department’s registration policy and obtain approval. Undergraduate courses require advance consent from their instructor.
Is there any way to meet fellow GSAL students?
The GSAL team hosts weekly happy hours to make sure GSAL/B/RS students have regular options to meet and connect with their academic colleagues. GSAL also hosts an annual seminar on exploring graduate school so students can learn about different fields of study and how to craft a successful graduate school application from program directors and admissions personnel. Additionally, quarterly workshops, mixers, and other social events enable GSAL students to build community and learn about campus-wide resources.
I plan to apply to a graduate degree program at the University of Chicago. Will these classes transfer? How many classes will transfer?
The University of Chicago degree programs will generally accept up to three classes to transfer. This varies by program and school, so we suggest that you contact the department’s graduate studies advisor for specific details.
As a GSAL student, will I have access to the libraries and athletic facilities?
Yes. You will have access to a variety of student services and facilities for each quarter that you are enrolled in classes. GSAL students can access campus libraries and have borrowing privileges with their UCID card.
Will I have an academic and graduate school advisor?
Yes. The director and her team of advisors are experienced in academic student success and will work with you to explore suitable courses, meet and converse with faculty, conduct research and student engagement activities, help with graduate school applications (including seeking faculty for letters of recommendation), and help you manage your work-life balance.
Where are classes held?
Most courses are offered on the main Hyde Park campus with the exception of a few programs which are offered online or located in downtown Chicago at either the Gleacher Center or NBC Tower.
I want to take business classes. Can I take courses at Chicago Booth?
Returning Scholar students are not eligible to audit courses at the Chicago Booth School of Business.
I want to apply to medical school and need one or two biology and chemistry classes that I didn’t take in college. Can I take these as a GSAL RS student?
Yes. However, undergraduate students have priority for undergraduate courses, so you will need to plan carefully to make sure that the courses you need will be available to you. You will also need instructor consent to register for undergraduate courses.
About the UChicago GSAL Programs
Since its founding, the University of Chicago has exemplified an unwavering dedication to intellectual exploration and the democratization of knowledge. Rooted in this vision, the concept of the “student-at-large” has been a cornerstone of the University’s mission, extending access to rigorous scholarship beyond traditional degree pathways.
Inspired by President Harper’s transformative ideals, the “at-large” model invites individuals of all backgrounds to immerse themselves in a world-class academic environment defined by inquiry, innovation, and excellence.
Established in 1994, the Graduate Student-at-Large program embodies this enduring tradition, offering unparalleled access to graduate and undergraduate coursework across a broad spectrum of disciplines.
GSAL Stories
Feb 24, 2026
Student Stories
From LSI Fellow to Returning Scholar: A Conversation with Michael Walsh
A conversation on purpose, intellectual vitality, and continuing the work of lifelong learning at the University of Chicago Graham School.
Read Now
Dec 13, 2021
Articles
At Last, Sanskrit
A Returning Scholar resumes his study of a classical language after a forty-year hiatus
Read Now
Dec 18, 2020
Articles
An Enlightened Retirement
A retired advertising executive goes in search of the Buddha.
Read Now
Ready to take the next step with GSAL?
Apply Now
This is the search overlay. Use the Escape key to close it.
Your Shopping Cart
Enroll Now