How To: Waitlist a Class

How the Waitlist Works

If a class is full, you can choose to add yourself to the waitlist during registration.

  • Join the Waitlist: When a course is closed, select “Waitlist” as your action during registration.
  • Check your Student Email: If a seat becomes available, you’ll receive an email at your college-assigned email address with instructions to register.
  • Take Action Quickly: You’ll have a set amount of time from the time the email is sent to log in and officially enroll in the course before the spot is offered to the next student.
    • Before the semester begins: If you get a waitlist email during the regular registration period, you’ll have 48 hours to claim your seat.
    • The week before classes start: Beginning that Monday, you’ll have 24 hours to claim your seat once you’re notified.
  • After Classes Begin: Once the class has started, the waitlist closes. If a spot opens in the course, the instructor will provide an add code for the student to enroll.
Student Guide to Waitlists

Tip: Keep checking your student email regularly (at least once a day) so you don’t miss a chance to register for your waitlisted class!


When you Can’t Add to a Waitlist

You won’t be able to join a waitlist if:

  • You’re already enrolled in another section or waitlist for the same course.
  • The class time overlaps with another course on your schedule.
  • You have a registration hold on your account.
  • You haven’t met the course prerequisite or corequisite requirements.
  • The course requires department approval.
  • Adding the waitlisted class would put you over the max unit limit.
  • You’ve already reached the repeat limit.