- One of the lowest tuition rates in the nation
- 200+ career focused online degree programs
- Flexible schedule with no assigned login times or lectures
- Transfer in up to 90 credits from previous college courses
Classes start on 03/02/26. Next on 05/04/26
- Access online resources 24 hours a day
- Offers comprehensive career counseling services
- New terms start monthly, with open enrollment
- Classes start on 03/25/2026
- Programs for criminal justice, business, education, and more
- 5- and 6-week classes to fit school into your schedule
- Student support available by phone 24/7
- Classes start on 03/03/2026
- 135+ skills-based degrees and certificates
- 75+ years of experience serving working adults and servicemembers worldwide
- Rolling admissions and multiple start dates each term
- Classes start soon
- 87% of students qualify for financial aid
- Flexibility to take courses from nearly anywhere
- Classes conveniently taught in five-week blocks
- More than 600 online degree programs
- Pioneer in distance education since 1985
- Training Champions for Christ since 1971
- Classes start on 02/16/2026
- No SAT or ACT tests required
- 8-week courses available 100% online
- 18 degree programs
- Classes start on 03/15/2026
- One of the lowest tuition rates in the nation
- 200+ career focused online degree programs
- Flexible schedule with no assigned login times or lectures
- Transfer in up to 90 credits from previous college courses
- Classes start on 03/02/26. Next on 05/04/26
FAQs about online colleges in 2025What is an online university and how does it work?
An online university is a fully digital institution offering degree programs through the internet. Students attend virtual classes, submit assignments, and communicate with instructors via a Learning Management System (LMS). This model is ideal for adults balancing jobs, families, or multiple commitments.
Courses are hosted on secure learning platforms
Students join virtual classrooms and interactive forums
Accredited programs award legitimate degrees equivalent to traditional colleges
Students can study anytime, from any location
SNHU
Key Insights About Online Colleges
Online colleges offer flexible, accredited degree paths designed for learners balancing school with work, family, or life transitions.
Most programs are self-paced and FAFSA-eligible, making them both accessible and affordable.
Fast-track bachelor’s degrees—some as short as 18 months—appeal to students seeking quicker results.
Strong student support services, like virtual tutoring and success coaches, help keep learners on track.
Choosing an accredited, well-supported, and affordable online program helps ensure a better fit for your goals and schedule.
Why are online colleges becoming so popular in 2026?
Online colleges are surging in popularity thanks to their flexibility, affordability, and accessibility. In 2026, many Americans are choosing digital education to upgrade their skills or complete unfinished degrees.
Remote learning aligns with busy adult schedules
Most online colleges that accept FAFSA provide affordable financial options
Programs now include live sessions, labs, and simulations
Employers increasingly value accredited online degrees
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We provide a range of services including comparison lists and in-depth reviews, all tailored to meet your specific needs. Our goal is to empower you to make confident and informed choices.
What are the key benefits of attending university online?
Online universities empower students with control, affordability, and access to diverse programs that fit around real life.
Flexible schedules: Learn at your own pace, any time of day
Lower costs: Save on housing, commuting, and campus fees
Wider access: Enroll in degrees unavailable locally
Digital readiness: Develop remote work and technology skills
Online study also connects learners worldwide, fostering multicultural collaboration.
SNHU
What programs do accredited online colleges offer?
Fully accredited online colleges in 2026 offer a vast selection of degree paths—from GED online programs to advanced master’s degrees.
GED online options for high-school equivalency
Associate and bachelor’s degrees in business, technology, education, and healthcare
Quickest bachelor degree programs using credit-for-experience and accelerated modules
Online MBA and master’s programs for professional advancement
Certificates and micro-credentials for targeted skill enhancement
How to find the least expensive accredited online college?
Finding the least expensive online degree is about balancing tuition, accreditation, and support—not just low prices.
Compare the top cheapest universities by tuition and graduation rate
Ensure the institution is a fully accredited online college
Verify FAFSA eligibility and state financial aid options
Transfer credits from prior studies or experience
Look for college grants for adults or employer tuition programs
Tip: The quickest bachelor degree options use 8-week modules and generous transfer-credit policies.
The big shift to online degrees
Based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), about 53.2% of U.S. college students were enrolled in at least one online course (part of what NCES refers to as distance education) in Fall 2023, showing how online learning has become a regular part of higher education. An estimated 26% studied entirely online, underscoring the growing preference for flexible programs that fit around work and family schedules.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
SNHU
What makes an online college fully accredited?
Accreditation confirms that an institution meets national education standards. It directly affects financial aid, credit transfer, and employer recognition.
Check accreditation with CHEA or the U.S. Department of Education
Choose between regional or national accreditation based on your goals
Only fully accredited online colleges qualify for federal aid like FAFSA
Avoid unaccredited “diploma mills” that lack legitimacy
How to choose the right online university for your needs
Selecting the right program ensures a better academic and financial outcome. Consider these key factors before applying:
Accreditation: Verify national or regional approval
Costs and aid: Compare tuition, hidden fees, and FAFSA availability
Student support: Ensure tutoring, advising, and tech help are provided
Outcomes: Review employment and alumni success rates
Can adults over 25 get financial aid for online college?
Yes, adults returning to school often qualify for a variety of financial aid options. Most online colleges that accept FAFSA offer grants and scholarships tailored for non-traditional learners.
Submit the FAFSA for federal and state aid
Explore college grants for adults and state-based programs
Use employer tuition reimbursement if available
Apply for merit or need-based scholarships year-round
Can you get into college without a GED in 2026?
Yes, there are colleges without GED pathways available. Students can either complete GED online programs or choose colleges that offer conditional admission.
Enroll in an online GED preparation program
Some community colleges accept students via the “Ability to Benefit” option
Once GED is earned, credits can count toward your degree
Is it hard to stay motivated in an online program?
Motivation can be challenging, but the best online colleges provide built-in support to keep learners engaged.
Use LMS tools to set reminders and track goals
Join online forums and peer groups
Choose programs with mentors or success coaches
Reward yourself for completing milestones
How do you apply to online colleges?
The process is fast, simple, and entirely digital.
Fill out an online application and pay the fee
Upload high school or GED transcripts
Submit essays or test scores if required
Verify FAFSA and scholarship eligibility
Complete a virtual interview if requested
After acceptance, you’ll receive login credentials and access to student orientation.
Our Top 3 Picks
- 1
Affordable online education- Best for - User-friendly online platform
- Popular programs - Business Administration, Psychology, and Nursing
- Amount of accredited degree programs - 200+
- Financial aid packages - Yes
- Tech support - Yes
100% OnlineAffordable online education100% OnlineRead SNHU ReviewSNHU (Southern New Hampshire University) offers affordable and flexible online education. They also have a wide range of financing options—such as the Stephen F. Knapp and Martha Van Hyland Scholarships—to ensure students can pursue their education without worrying about expensive tuition.
To positively impact a constantly changing society, they create unique courses and support students to produce meaningful answers for their assessments. They also actively participate in local and worldwide activities like the HR Management Collegiate Association, allowing their students to connect with their peers.
Many students have reported their appreciation of SNHU's online learning platform—Brightspace—for its design and user-friendliness. It also enhanced their online learning experience by providing a straightforward and enjoyable interface.
Why we chose Southern New Hampshire University: SNHU transforms the lives of undergraduates, focusing on their success by constantly updating their curriculum. This aims to consistently challenge the status quo and ensure the best educational experience for their students.
SNHU Pros & Cons
PROS
No application feeUser-friendly online learning platformAffordable tuitionCONS
Low graduation and student retention rateLess academic programs than some more prominent universities - 2
Expand Your Career With Purdue Global Degrees- Best for - Networking opportunities
- Popular programs - Business Administration, Computer Science, and Engineering
- Amount of accredited degree programs - 300+
- Financial aid packages - Yes
- Tech support - Yes
175+ ProgramsExpand Your Career With Purdue Global Degrees175+ ProgramsRead Purdue Global ReviewPurdue Global is an excellent option for working adults looking to earn a degree and make a difference in their professional lives. There are 119 degree programs with accreditation from renowned bodies.
The degree levels on offer are associate's, bachelor's, master's, doctorate, and certificate programs. The application process is relatively straightforward, and many student support options are available, including student clubs, an online library, extensive blogs, and career support.
Why we chose Purdue Global - We chose Purdue Global because we liked that students can gain credits through work experience. The student support is solid, too, providing students with career guidance and prompt assistance from advisors.
Our experience - We were delighted with the website's easy navigation and user-friendly interface. We also liked that it presents students with two ways to earn the same degree based on their learning preferences.
Purdue Global Pros & Cons
PROS
Earn credits through work experienceThree-week trial period for undergraduate programsTuition rate calculator for transparent pricingCONS
High cost of tuitionNo after-hours service - 3
Online degrees from a top-ranked university- Best for - Working professionals
- Popular programs - Business, Criminal Justice, and Education
- Amount of accredited degree programs - 50+
- Financial aid packages - Yes
- Tech support - Yes
Online degrees from a top-ranked universityRead The University of Arizona Global Campus ReviewThe University of Arizona Global Campus is an online degree program from the University of Arizona, offering 51 online degree programs across seven study areas. The Global Campus program offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Students receive outstanding support, including 24/7 access to academic advisors and tutors. That support continues after graduation, with alumni receiving lifelong career coaching and networking opportunities.
Why we chose the University of Arizona Global Campus: The University of Arizona is a nationally ranked university that enables students from anywhere worldwide to earn a degree 100% online. Students can take classes on their schedule, making this program ideal for busy professionals.
Our experience: We found that the University of Arizona Global Campus program goes above and beyond to support its students. The list of resources available is extensive; most are available around the clock. On top of that, students can connect with each other through virtual clubs that enhance the online college experience.
The University of Arizona Global Campus Pros & Cons
PROS
All classes are fully remoteWide range of student resources available 24/7Test out the program risk-free for three weeksCONS
Fewer degree programs than competitorsNo in-person experiences available for online students