Auditing Group

Auditing Group: Introduction

Welcome to the HSSPA Auditing Group! This group is designed to help spouses and partners of Harvard students and affiliates audit classes across various schools within Harvard University. Auditing allows you to attend lectures and access course materials without receiving academic credit. Here, we share our experiences, tips, and guidance on navigating the auditing process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is auditing a class?

A: Auditing means attending lectures and accessing course materials without earning academic credit.

Q2: Who is eligible to audit classes?

A: Spouses and partners of Harvard students, faculty, and staff are typically eligible to audit classes.

Q3: How do I find classes to audit?

A: You can browse course listings on the Harvard course catalog or consult the school’s academic departments.

Q4: Do I need permission to audit a class?

A: Yes, you usually need permission from the instructor or the department offering the course.

Q5: Are there any fees associated with auditing?

A: Auditing is generally free for spouses and partners, but this can vary by school or program.

Q6: Can I participate in exams and assignments?

A: Auditors typically do not participate in exams or graded assignments, but this may vary by course.

Q7: What should I do if a class I want to audit is full?

A: Contact the instructor to inquire if there’s space available for auditors, or consider auditing a different course.

Q8: Can I access course materials online?

A: This depends on the course. Some instructors may provide access to online materials, while others may not.

Q9: How can I get a Harvard ID to access facilities?

A: You can obtain a Special Borrower Card by following the steps outlined in the Harvard Library Visitor Access guide.

Q10: How do I inform the group about my experiences?

A: You can share your experiences directly in the WhatsApp group or update this page via HSSPA Web Admin.

Q11: Can I audit classes in any Harvard school?

A: Auditing policies vary by school, so it's best to check with each school or department. Some schools may have restrictions.

Q12: What if I have a scheduling conflict with a class I want to audit?

A: If you can’t attend all sessions, inform the instructor and ask if it’s still possible to audit.

Q13: Can I participate in group projects or discussions?

A: Participation in group work is typically limited for auditors, but you can ask the instructor about their policy.

Q14: Do I need to register officially to audit a class?

A: This depends on the course and the school’s policies. Some may require informal agreements with the instructor.

Q15: Are there any restrictions on the number of classes I can audit?

A: This varies by school and instructor. It’s recommended to audit only as many classes as you can commit to attending regularly.

Q16: What should I do if I need to stop auditing a class?

A: Inform the instructor if you decide to stop auditing a class, as a courtesy.

Q17: Which classes should I audit?

A: Choose classes that align with your interests or professional goals. Consider auditing introductory courses if you're new to a subject, or advanced classes if you have a background in the topic.

Q18: What should I do if I don’t get permission to audit a class?

A: Respect the instructor's decision and consider reaching out for advice on other similar courses or exploring other departments.

Q19: Can I audit classes outside Harvard?

A: Some nearby universities may allow auditing, but their policies vary. It’s best to contact the specific school for information.

Q20: Can I audit classes at Harvard Business School (HBS) / Harvard Medical School (HMS)?

A: Yes, a few HSSPA members have successfully audited classes at HBS and HMS. However, it’s important to note that gaining permission to audit at HBS/HMS can be challenging. It often depends on your professional background and how well you can make a case to the professor or instructor about why your participation would be valuable. Be prepared to explain your interest and relevance to the course content when you reach out to the instructor.

Q21: Are there any Harvard schools that prohibit auditing?

A: Auditing is a privilege, not a right. While almost all Harvard schools may allow auditing, it doesn’t mean it’s granted to everyone. Each school and professor has discretion over whether to permit auditors. Some schools might have stricter policies or higher barriers, so it’s important to approach the process with this understanding. Always check the specific school’s policies and be prepared for the possibility that auditing might not be allowed.

Q22: How HSSPA Can Assist You?

The HSSPA Auditing Group is a supportive community where you can connect with others who have experience in auditing classes. You can ask questions, share experiences, and seek advice from fellow members. As a voluntary group, it's important to respect everyone's privacy and be courteous in your interactions. HSSPA can assist with drafting requests to professors, shortlisting potential classes, and providing feedback on courses that others have audited.