How to audit a course on edX

Learn how to audit a course on edX, what you can access with the audit track, and whether it's the right option for your learning goals.

By: Matt Whittle, Edited by: Gabriela Pérez Jordán

Last updated: September 29, 2026

How to audit a course on edX

With edX, you can audit a course and enroll for free before committing to a verified certificate track. This pathway allows you to explore a subject and its course delivery method to determine if it meets your personal and professional goals.

Note: Most edX courses have the option to audit. Check the course page to confirm whether the audit track is available and how long you'll have access.

What's included when you audit a course on edX?

As you learn how to audit an edX course, you'll likely wonder what's included in this enrollment option. Auditing a course allows you to access select course content, but you won't receive access to the same full scope of coursework as the certificate track, also known as the verified track. Compare your options between the audit and certificate tracks in the table below.

Cost
Audit track
Free
Certificate track
Paid
Access to materials
Audit track
Available during audit period
Certificate track
Yes
Instructor feedback
Audit track
Typically not included; varies
Certificate track
Typically included; varies
Verified certificate
Audit track
No
Certificate track
Yes, after meeting requirements
Access duration
Audit track
Temporary access during audit period
Certificate track
Lasting; varies based on course and provider
Best suited for
Audit track
Exploring new subjects and credentials
Certificate track
Earning a certificate

Popular courses to audit on edX

How to Learn Online
edX
Course
AI Applications and Prompt Engineering
edX
Course
Intro Course: Data Storytelling
edX
Course

Frequently asked questions about auditing an edX course

Can you audit every edX course?

No. Most edX courses have the option to audit, but not every course offers an audit track. Availability varies by course. Check the course page to confirm whether an audit track is available.

Is auditing an edX course free?

For the most part, yes, auditing an edX course is free. The audit track allows you to access course materials without having to pay. Still, to participate in graded assessments, receive a certificate, and engage with additional features, you'll need to enroll in the verified track.

Can you upgrade to the certificate track later?

If offered, yes, you can upgrade to the certificate track after beginning in the audit track. Each class includes an upgrade deadline, so if you plan to switch, make sure to check on this deadline first. Starting earlier gives you more time to progress toward earning a certificate.

How long can you access an audited course?

Access to an audited course is available for a limited time, which varies by course. Before you enroll, check the course homepage to see how long you'll have access to the audit track.

Can you add an audited edX course to your résumé?

Yes. You can include an audited edX course on your résumé. However, learners who choose the audit track don't earn a verified certificate, which includes a validation link confirming successful course completion.

Do you receive a certificate for auditing an edX course?

Auditing an edX course does not provide you with a certificate. However, if you complete the verified version of the course, you can receive a certificate upon completion.

Is there any limit to the number of classes I can audit on edX?

No. You can audit any number of edX courses that offer an audit track.

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