The per-credit price on the program page is rarely the whole bill. Add up the fees before you compare schools.
The quick take
- Online programs price tuition per credit, per term or as a flat rate per term.
- Distance learning, technology, proctoring and course material fees can add hundreds of dollars a term.
- Eligible online programs qualify for the same federal aid as campus programs.
- Federal student loans generally require at least half-time enrollment.
Comparing online programs by the advertised price per credit is like comparing flights by base fare. Here’s what to add up instead.
How online tuition is priced
| Model | How it works | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Per credit | You pay for each credit you take | Different rates for in-state and out-of-state students |
| Per term | A set price for a full-time or part-time load | Paying for credits you don’t take |
| Flat rate per term | Unlimited courses within a term, common in competency-based programs | Costs rise if you complete fewer courses than planned |
Fees that often aren’t on the program page
- Distance learning or online course fees, charged per credit or per course.
- Technology fees for the learning platform and software.
- Proctoring fees for remote or in-person exam supervision; see online exam proctoring.
- Course materials, including access codes for online homework systems.
- Program-specific fees for clinical placements, residencies, background checks or licensure prep.
- Graduation or transcript fees.
Coach’s tip
Ask the admissions or bursar’s office for a full cost sheet for one year of your program, including all mandatory fees, and compare that total across schools.
Financial aid for online students
Online students at eligible, accredited schools can use federal financial aid on the same terms as campus students. Complete the FAFSA, and remember two practical rules:
- Federal student loans generally require at least half-time enrollment, so one course a term may not qualify.
- Aid is based on your program’s cost of attendance, which can include an allowance for a computer.
Other ways to lower the bill
- Transfer credits and credit for prior learning reduce the number of courses you pay for.
- Employer tuition assistance can cover a large share, and up to $5,250 a year can generally be excluded from your taxable income.
- Military and veteran benefits cover online programs at approved schools.
- In-state or regional rates at public universities can be much cheaper than private alternatives; see studying online from another state.
You might be wondering
Q: Is online tuition cheaper than on-campus tuition?
A: Sometimes, but not always. Some schools charge the same rate, some charge more for online courses, and some offer a single online rate to students in every state.
Q: Can I use my employer’s tuition benefit for an online program?
A: Often, yes. Check whether your employer requires an accredited school, approved programs or a minimum grade. Employer education assistance of up to $5,250 a year can generally be tax-free to you under federal law.
Q: What are inclusive access course materials?
A: Some schools automatically charge for digital textbooks through your account. Ask how the charge works and whether you can opt out if you already have the materials.
Policies differ by school and change over time. This guide is general information for online students in the U.S.; check your school’s current policies and your program’s requirements before you enroll.