* Year in school: Freshmen often have less flexibility than upperclassmen because they may have required courses with limited section times. Upperclassmen, having completed introductory requirements, generally have more options.
* Major: Some majors have very structured sequences of courses with limited offerings, leaving students with less choice. Others might offer more flexibility.
* Course popularity: Popular courses fill up quickly, limiting the available times. Students might need to choose less desirable times or even alternate courses to accommodate their schedules.
* University size and policies: Larger universities often have more course sections and therefore more schedule flexibility. Smaller colleges may have fewer options. University policies regarding registration, priority enrollment, and prerequisites also play a role.
* Part-time vs. full-time: Part-time students might have more freedom to select convenient times that work with their other commitments.
In short, while many college students have *some* say in their schedule, complete freedom is rare. They typically choose from a selection of available courses and times, constrained by various factors. They might get to create a schedule they prefer, but that schedule might not be exactly what they initially envisioned.