non-regular student; exchange or research student
Used in academic contexts to distinguish students on exchange or research programs from regular degree-seeking students. Often contrasted with 正規生 (regular student).
See also: 正規生 (せいきせい)
This university accepts many international students as non-regular students.
Non-regular students have more limited course options compared to regular students.
正規生 refers to a regular, degree-seeking student, while 非正規生 is a non-regular student such as an exchange or research student.
Compound of 非 (non-) + 正規 (regular) + 生 (student).