A student at a college or university who is not enrolled as a candidate for a degree is a special student. Special student is also known as a non-degree, non-matriculating, or visiting student.

Denotes a first theological degree student who has been formally admitted to LTSP but has not been admitted to a degree program. Courses and length of study varies widely, but most will be eligible to receive a Certificate of Theological Study upon completion. Some such students may actually take courses as if in a degree track, while others may si [..]

A student who is taking classes but is not enrolled in a degree program.

A student already holding a first degree may, as a special student, enroll in undergraduate courses only. First time applicants wishing to enroll as special students and students holding a first degre [..]

A student who is not seeking a degree at the campus where he/she is registered.

student accepted provisionally by a university often as a way to recognize that individual's academic qualifications from another country.

ÉTUDIANT SPÉCIAL Status of a person who has received permission from the University to register for undergraduate courses in order to obtain university credits but who is not seeking an undergraduate degree, certificate or diploma from the University. For more information, visit the undergraduate site for special students. 

Special student may refer to: A non-matriculated student at a United States college or university A student enrolled in a special education program