Students earning a college degree online attend lectures, complete group projects, and take exams. However, the delivery method differs for online classes. Online learners complete coursework using a virtual learning platform. They connect with instructors and peers through video chat, discussion boards, and other virtual platforms.

At many schools, the online curriculum closely follows the on-campus curriculum. Programs with in-person requirements typically let online students complete a practicum, internship, or lab in their local area.

Online colleges offer several flexible enrollment options. Many schools offer both synchronous and asynchronous courses. In synchronous courses, students meet at a set time for live lessons. Some synchronous courses include in-person students. Asynchronous courses maximize flexibility by letting students complete course requirements without required login times.

Some programs also offer hybrid courses, which combine synchronous and asynchronous learning.

Accredited online degrees meet the same high standards for educational excellence as in-person degrees. Many top-ranked colleges offer on-campus and online programs that use the same curriculum, instructors, and graduation requirements. These online colleges often grant an identical degree to online and in-person graduates, with no distinction on the diploma for students who earn their degree online.

Many employers hire job candidates with an online degree. Graduates who earned an online degree from an accredited institution also qualify for professional licenses and certifications.

Yes. The best online colleges accept transfer credit from other institutions. Credits from regionally accredited institutions are most likely to transfer. Prospective applicants should contact an admissions advisor or transfer advisor to ask for a transcript review. The review will provide feedback on which credits transfer toward an online college degree.

Yes. Many online colleges offer credit for work experience, military service, or a professional license. For example, a prior learning assessment portfolio evaluates applicants based on a collection of their work. Incoming students can also test out of certain requirements or receive credit by exam.

Tuition for an online college degree varies widely depending on the school and program. For example, two-year colleges typically offer the lowest tuition rates, followed by four-year public, in-state universities. Private institutions and graduate programs often cost more. Finally, the number of credits per term influences costs.

In addition to tuition, online learners should also budget for technology and textbook costs as well as any other program-related expenses.

Learners enrolled in accredited online colleges qualify for the same financial aid options as in-person enrollees. Distance learners can apply for federal student aid by completing the FAFSA every year. Applicants complete the FAFSA to receive federal grants, loans, and work-study aid. Online students can also apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid.

When researching financial aid options, make sure to check the minimum number of credits to receive aid, whether a full-time or part-time enrollment status affects eligibility, and school accreditation.