Repeating Courses

Many classes at the UO are repeatable, meaning they can be taken more than once for credit. They include:

  • Topics courses (repeatable if the content is different each time)
  • Individualized study (research, internship, etc.)
  • Max limit (can be repeated to a specific credit limit, i.e. some music courses)

How Do I Know If a Course is Repeatable?

There are several ways you can explore which classes are repeatable:

Non-Repeatable Courses

If you’ve passed a course (with a C or higher), you generally can’t retake it unless approved by the Academic Requirements Committee. If you didn't pass (C- or lower), you can take it again up to three times in total. 

What If I Need to Repeat a Course?

  • If you previously passed a course but need a higher grade to meet a major or minor requirement, you can request an exception with the Petition to Repeat a Course.  You may also consider auditing the course.
  • If you didn’t pass a course but need to pass to complete a degree requirement, you can take the course up to three times—including attempts at other schools. After that, you’ll have to submit a Petition to Repeat a Course to request an exception. 
  • If you’ve reached the established credit limit for a repeatable course, consider auditing the course. If you want to pursue registering for the course again, you can request an exception with the Petition to Repeat a Course.

Petition to Repeat a Course

Grades and GPA

  • Non-Repeatable Courses: All attempts are included in your GPA, and credit is only awarded once.
  • Repeatable Courses: Each attempt earns credit (up to the limit), and all grades count towards your GPA.

Special Cases

  • Incompletes: You can’t register for a course if you have an incomplete for the same course. Complete the current course work or ask the instructor to enter a grade first.
  • Transfer Credits: Courses you take elsewhere that are equivalent to UO courses are subject to the same rules. Grades from other institutions do not count toward your UO GPA.

Financial Aid Considerations

If you’re receiving financial aid, remember that failed courses are considered in your aid progress review. Contact the financial aid office if you have questions.

Other Items to Consider

  • You can't register for the same course for the next term while still enrolled. If you don’t pass, you can register once grades are posted.
  • You can repeat a course at another institution, but UO won’t give you additional credit. Transfer courses are not included in your UO GPA.
  • The withdrawal (W) will remain on your transcript and won’t be removed even if you retake and pass the course.

Need More Help?

For specific questions or to start a petition, contact the Office of the Registrar or your academic advisor.