Advanced Standing

In limited circumstances in some departments, undergraduate students may be advanced from one course level to another based on a portfolio review, and the student will be waived from the lower-level course.

The portfolio review usually occurs at the end of the first semester of study at RISD and is done by the student’s Department Head at the student’s request. Granting of advanced standing does not mean that course credit is granted, and the student must make up the credit from the missing lower-level course by taking an additional elective or transferring in credit. Students should check with their department to learn whether a portfolio review is offered. Advanced standing that is unaccompanied by additional credit transfer may not reduce the number of semesters needed to complete degree requirements. Departments will notify the Registrar’s Office of any approved Advanced Standing students. Course substitutions and waivers will be processed in Workday.