Distance learning can offer students the flexibility to balance coursework with working, taking care of family, and other responsibilities. The cheapest online colleges can help you minimize student loan debt while working toward a degree and career advancement.
Online colleges offer degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines. In 2022, around 26% of college students were taking online classes exclusively.
This guide will explore online college costs, the least expensive online colleges, and strategies to pay for an online degree.
Overview of Online College Costs
Whether studying in-person or online, college costs typically include more than just tuition.
Students taking online classes may have to pay technology fees and purchase books and materials depending on their area of study. The cost of an online degree can also vary by institution and in-state vs. out-of-state residency.
Here’s a closer look at the main cost considerations for online colleges.
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Tuition and Fees for Online Programs
Like traditional college, tuition and fees account for most of the cost of attending online college.
Tuition usually varies based on enrollment status or, in other words, whether you’re a full-time vs. part-time student. Part-time students pay per credit hour, whereas full-time students taking 12 to 18 credits per semester may pay a flat rate.
Online programs may also include fees on top of tuition, such as a technology or distance learning fee, to access virtual resources and technical support services.
Cost Comparison: Online vs. On-Campus
Students considering studying online vs. on-campus may ask which is cheaper. In short, it depends on the institution, degree program, and location, but studying on campus tends to be more expensive.
For example, a first-year, in-state undergrad at Penn State’s University Park campus would pay $19,672 in tuition and fees for the 2024-2025 academic year. Meanwhile, an online undergraduate student would be charged $7,678 per semester, or $15,356 for the academic year.
Looking at tuition and fees is just part of the cost comparison. The total cost of attendance for studying on campus could include transportation expenses, room and board, and a meal plan — all costs that may not be incurred with the cheapest online colleges.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Online Tuition
The cost of online college can vary based on where you live.
At public institutions, students with in-state residency may benefit from subsidized tuition, even for online degree programs. However, most private schools do not differentiate tuition costs between in-state and out-of-state students.
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10 Affordable Online Colleges to Consider
Looking for the cheapest accredited online colleges? Here’s a short list of affordable online colleges to consider.
| Institution | In-State Cost Per Credit Hour | Out-of-State Cost Per Credit Hour |
|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | $42 | $208 |
| University of Florida Online | $129 | $553 |
| University of Central Florida | $179 | $716 |
| Eastern New Mexico University | $298 | $380 |
| Great Basin College | $193 | $255 |
| Clayton State University | $5,780 (annual tuition) | $5,780 (annual tuition) |
| Western Governors University | $8,300 (average annual cost) | $8,300 (average annual cost) |
| University of Wisconsin – Madison | $500 | $500 |
| Kennesaw State University | $190 (plus $340 online learner fee per semester) | $190 (plus $340 online learner fee per semester) |
| University of West Florida | $219 | $324 (Alabama residents) $648 (other non-Florida residents) |
Factors Contributing to Lower Online College Costs
Why are online colleges cheapest for earning a degree? For starters, traditional colleges with in-person learning offer a range of experiences and infrastructure for students that online colleges don’t.
With online college, students have a much wider range of institutions and degree programs to choose from, increasing their options for an affordable education. Taking classes from home also avoids having to relocate and pay for moving costs.
Here are some additional factors contributing to lower online college costs.
No Campus Facilities or Housing
Dormitories, campus quads, athletic facilities, and many other facilities that define a quintessential college campus require a considerable budget to maintain. Besides tuition, students taking classes in-person may be required to pay for on-campus housing and meal plans for a portion of the full duration of their enrollment.
Meanwhile, students enrolled in online college are typically spared from paying housing and campus facility costs, including parking and recreation fees.
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Lower Administrative Overhead
Besides teaching faculty, traditional colleges require onsite staff to support student life on campus. This may include health services, campus events, dining services, and other areas related to student well-being.
With less support staff, online colleges have comparatively less overhead cost to meet the needs of their students.
Technology and Course Delivery Methods
Online colleges may charge additional technology fees for students enrolled in distance learning. However, online students could save on the cost of books and materials if primarily using digital resources for their coursework.
Taking classes online vs. in-person lectures can save on transportation costs, too, which average $1,360 annually for students who commute to college.
Flexible Scheduling and Self-Paced Options
Self-paced online programs allow students to watch lectures and complete assignments at their own speed. This approach can make it possible to take online classes while working or juggling family commitments, helping to pay for school and save on childcare costs.
Additional Cost-Saving Strategies
Though online college can be more affordable, students might consider other options for lowering costs.
Wondering how to pay for college? Here are some additional ways to reduce the cost of going to online college.
Transfer Credits and Prior Learning
Students who previously attended another institution could save on their online education by transferring credits. Transferring college credits usually involves an application fee or enrollment fee, but that’s still cheaper than taking the credit hours anew.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Around 87% of college students receive some form of financial aid. Most colleges with free tuition or income-based tuition are in-person institutions, though students enrolled in online programs may qualify for financial aid and scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition.
When browsing online programs, keep in mind that colleges and universities must be accredited for students to be eligible for federal student aid, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans. Online students may also leverage private student loans and state and institutional financial aid in the form of scholarships or grants.
Already in the workforce? There are jobs that pay for your degree through scholarships or tuition reimbursement that could be a fit for your academic and professional goals.
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Accelerated or Competency-Based Programs
An online competency-based or accelerated program is another option for students to learn at their own pace instead of following a set semester schedule.
Generally, students can choose when to take an assessment to demonstrate they’ve mastered a competency, potentially earning their degree faster and at a reduced cost.
The Takeaway
The cheapest online colleges can make earning a college degree more affordable. Besides the cost of tuition and fees, financial aid and long-term career goals are important considerations when comparing schools and degree programs.
To pay for your online education, you can use cash savings, grants, scholarships, and student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
FAQ
What is the cheapest accredited online college?
The cheapest accredited online college on our list is University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Note that the cheapest online college can differ based on a student’s chosen program, credit hours, and residency status.
Are cheap online degrees worth it?
A cheap online degree can offer a flexible and affordable path to higher education and career advancement. When evaluating online degrees, consider the program’s cost, curriculum, and reputation.
How can I maximize cost savings for an online degree?
You can save on online college by enrolling in a program offering cheaper in-state tuition or self-paced learning to earn a degree in less time.
Do employers value cheap online degrees?
Employers will value a cheap online degree the same as a traditional degree if it’s from an accredited institution and meets the same academic standards. Earning an online degree while working also demonstrates time management skills to potential employers.
Photo credit: iStock/DisobeyArt
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