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Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

How We Ranked Our Top Online Colleges

This list features some of the best online colleges and universities across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each of these schools on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online colleges and universities to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so prospective students don’t have to.

Best Accredited Online Colleges That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

America's Top College List

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    Kirksville, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    A.T. Still University

    4 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $60,679

    Out-of-state: $60,679

    Test scores

    SAT: 122 - 131

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    99%
    Admission Rate
    99%
    On-campus students
    65%
    Graduation Rate
    95%
    Students enrolled
    3,624
    Student to faculty ratio
    2-to-1
    Average Salary
    213,500
    Average Student Debt
    77,772

    Abilene, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Abilene Christian University

    14 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $37,750

    Out-of-state: $37,750

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $23,238

    Out-of-state: $23,238

    Test scores

    SAT: 1010-1220

    ACT: 21-27

    Retention Rate
    76%
    Admission Rate
    76%
    On-campus students
    58%
    Graduation Rate
    66%
    Students enrolled
    5,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    13:01
    Average Salary
    $39k
    Average Student Debt
    $25k

    Glendale, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Abraham Lincoln University

    1 Intelligent Award
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $49,800

    Out-of-state: $49,800

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $19,800

    Out-of-state: $19,800

    Test scores

    SAT: N/A

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    N/A
    Admission Rate
    0%
    On-campus students
    N/A
    Graduation Rate
    25%
    Students enrolled
    48
    Student to faculty ratio
    3-to-1
    Average Salary
    N/A
    Average Student Debt
    13,498

    San Francisco, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Academy of Art University

    1 Intelligent Award
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $24,264

    Out-of-state: $24,264

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $27,288

    Out-of-state: $27,288

    Test scores

    SAT: N/A

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    70%
    Admission Rate
    N/A
    On-campus students
    12%
    Graduation Rate
    47%
    Students enrolled
    9,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    14:01
    Average Salary
    $33k
    Average Student Debt
    $31k

    Alamosa, CO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Adams State University

    9 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $5,856

    Out-of-state: $17,592

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $7,830

    Out-of-state: $7,830

    Test scores

    SAT: 890-1090

    ACT: 17-22

    Retention Rate
    59%
    Admission Rate
    59%
    On-campus students
    44%
    Graduation Rate
    32%
    Students enrolled
    3,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    13:01
    Average Salary
    $29k
    Average Student Debt
    $22k

    Garden City, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Adelphi University

    8 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $39,820

    Out-of-state: $39,820

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $42,450

    Out-of-state: $42,450

    Test scores

    SAT: 1060-1250

    ACT: 21-27

    Retention Rate
    82%
    Admission Rate
    82%
    On-campus students
    4%
    Graduation Rate
    73%
    Students enrolled
    8,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    12:01
    Average Salary
    $49k
    Average Student Debt
    $25k

    Chicago, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Adler University

    4 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $16,740

    Out-of-state: $16,740

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $41,930

    Out-of-state: $41,930

    Test scores

    SAT: Not Required

    ACT: Not Required

    Retention Rate
    N/A
    Admission Rate
    0%
    On-campus students
    100%
    Graduation Rate
    87%
    Students enrolled
    1,864
    Student to faculty ratio
    12-to-1
    Average Salary
    75,000
    Average Student Debt
    N/A

    Adrian, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Adrian College

    2 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $37,755

    Out-of-state: $37,755

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $18,600

    Out-of-state: $18,600

    Test scores

    SAT: 927-1120

    ACT: 19-25

    Retention Rate
    66%
    Admission Rate
    66%
    On-campus students
    93%
    Graduation Rate
    54%
    Students enrolled
    2,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    14:01
    Average Salary
    $34k
    Average Student Debt
    $27k

    Orlando, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    AdventHealth University

    5 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $18,900

    Out-of-state: $18,900

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $24,275

    Out-of-state: $24,275

    Test scores

    SAT: 1010-1140

    ACT: 21-24

    Retention Rate
    80%
    Admission Rate
    80%
    On-campus students
    36%
    Graduation Rate
    35%
    Students enrolled
    2,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    7:01
    Average Salary
    $54k
    Average Student Debt
    $25k

    Decatur, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Agnes Scott College

    2 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $62,448

    Out-of-state: $62,448

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $57,695

    Out-of-state: $57,695

    Test scores

    SAT: 1130-1350

    ACT: 24-31

    Retention Rate
    83%
    Admission Rate
    83%
    On-campus students
    100%
    Graduation Rate
    61%
    Students enrolled
    1,003
    Student to faculty ratio
    12-to-1
    Average Salary
    48,175
    Average Student Debt
    14,396

    Graniteville, SC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Aiken Technical College

    1 Intelligent Award
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $18,156

    Out-of-state: $19,730

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Test scores

    SAT: 500 or higher

    ACT: 22 or higher

    Retention Rate
    53%
    Admission Rate
    53%
    On-campus students
    60%
    Graduation Rate
    26%
    Students enrolled
    608
    Student to faculty ratio
    13-to1
    Average Salary
    25,500
    Average Student Debt
    13,340

    Normal, AL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Alabama A&M University

    3 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $8,610

    Out-of-state: $17,220

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $10,128

    Out-of-state: $10,128

    Test scores

    SAT: 840-1020

    ACT: 15-20

    Retention Rate
    54%
    Admission Rate
    54%
    On-campus students
    4%
    Graduation Rate
    29%
    Students enrolled
    6,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    18:01
    Average Salary
    $28k
    Average Student Debt
    $33k

    Montgomery, AL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Alabama State University

    4 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $8,328

    Out-of-state: $16,656

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $7,416

    Out-of-state: $7,416

    Test scores

    SAT: 844-1049

    ACT: 14-20

    Retention Rate
    62%
    Admission Rate
    62%
    On-campus students
    5%
    Graduation Rate
    32%
    Students enrolled
    4,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    15:01
    Average Salary
    $24k
    Average Student Debt
    $32k

    Graham, NC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Alamance Community College

    1 Intelligent Award
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $33,262

    Out-of-state: $39,406

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Test scores

    SAT: 500 or higher

    ACT: 18 or higher

    Retention Rate
    68%
    Admission Rate
    68%
    On-campus students
    43%
    Graduation Rate
    33%
    Students enrolled
    1,216
    Student to faculty ratio
    14-to-1
    Average Salary
    26,900
    Average Student Debt
    10,828

    Anchorage, AK | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Alaska Pacific University

    3 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $20,350

    Out-of-state: $20,350

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $11,700

    Out-of-state: $11,700

    Test scores

    SAT: N/A

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    56%
    Admission Rate
    56%
    On-campus students
    1%
    Graduation Rate
    56%
    Students enrolled
    493
    Student to faculty ratio
    8:01
    Average Salary
    $38k
    Average Student Debt
    $22k

    Albany, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

    Albany Medical College

    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Test scores

    SAT: N/A

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    N/A
    Admission Rate
    N/A
    On-campus students
    92%
    Graduation Rate
    N/A
    Students enrolled
    835
    Student to faculty ratio
    N/A
    Average Salary
    $90k
    Average Student Debt
    N/A

    Albany, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Albany State University

    14 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $4,064

    Out-of-state: $14,786

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: $3,438

    Out-of-state: $3,438

    Test scores

    SAT: 740-900

    ACT: 15-18

    Retention Rate
    74%
    Admission Rate
    74%
    On-campus students
    36%
    Graduation Rate
    26%
    Students enrolled
    7,000
    Student to faculty ratio
    19:01
    Average Salary
    $27k
    Average Student Debt
    $27k

    Albany, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

    Albany Technical College

    10 Intelligent Awards
    Undergraduate Tuition

    In-state: $17,113

    Out-of-state: $19,513

    Graduate Tuition

    In-state: NA

    Out-of-state: NA

    Test scores

    SAT: N/A

    ACT: N/A

    Retention Rate
    64%
    Admission Rate
    64%
    On-campus students
    44%
    Graduation Rate
    46%
    Students enrolled
    884
    Student to faculty ratio
    14-to-1
    Average Salary
    25,200
    Average Student Debt
    17,238

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    What You Should Know About Online Colleges

    “Attending an online college can be a convenient and flexible way to pursue higher education,” says Blanca Villagomez, a program coordinator and counselor at UC Irvine. “However, it’s important to carefully research and evaluate the institution and program you’re considering to ensure that it meets your needs and will be recognized by employers or other educational institutions.”

    With this in mind, there are a few things prospective students must be aware of when considering enrolling in an online college.

    Accreditation

    This list includes only accredited online schools because of how important accreditation is to the quality of the educational experience it provides students. There are two types of accreditation for U.S. colleges — regional and national. A regionally accredited college is typically nonprofit and may be public or private. Nationally accredited schools are typically for-profit and private institutions.

    Regional accreditation is the more widely recognized accreditation type, with rigorous standards for academic quality. Employers typically seek out job candidates from regionally accredited schools. In some professions, like teaching, students must have a degree from a regionally accredited institution to be eligible for necessary licenses and credentials.

    Accreditation also matters when it comes to transferring schools or pursuing advanced study. Regionally accredited schools only accept online degrees from other regionally accredited schools, not nationally accredited schools. This can limit future educational options for online students who earn an undergraduate degree at a nationally-accredited school.

    There are also financial implications to consider. While nationally-accredited schools may have lower tuition than regionally-accredited schools, their online programs may not be eligible for the full range of student financial aid options. Additionally, the limitations of online degrees from nationally-accredited schools in the job market may impact students’ future earnings and employment opportunities.

    Most online schools include their accreditation status in their marketing materials, but if you need more clarification, you can check the U.S. Department of Education’s database.

    Nonprofit vs. for-profit status

    Like accreditation, a school’s status as a nonprofit or for-profit also impacts the quality of online education, future employment opportunities, and financial aid eligibility.

    The majority of higher education institutions in the U.S. are nonprofit. This status is considered the standard-bearer for post-secondary education since, by definition, they can’t turn a profit. Instead, they must reinvest all revenue into the school via faculty and staff salaries, infrastructure, student services, and more.

    As the name implies, for-profit schools are designed to make money. As such, they can use revenue to pay shareholders, executives, and investors rather than invest revenue in the school, which can impact the quality of programs and infrastructure.

    Residency requirements

    While online programs may advertise the ability to learn from anywhere, that might not always be possible. Restrictions in the U.S. may prevent college students from attending school in a specific state or pursuing a specific degree program. In order to grant degrees to prospective students living in different states, institutions must be authorized by those states to award degrees to their residents. Otherwise, out-of-state students are ineligible for enrollment. To make learning across state borders easier, over 2,300 institutions throughout 49 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), ensuring their distance education programs are authorized to operate and grant degrees in multiple states.

    A student’s area of study can also impact where they earn their online degree. For those pursuing teaching degrees, there are certification requirements that vary by state and may dictate that a student earn their online degree in the state in which they plan to teach. When exploring online colleges and programs, it’s important to keep this type of career-specific information in mind.

    Online program availability

    As with residency requirements, the ability to complete a program entirely online may come with some restrictions. Although there are many online degree programs that students can complete without ever leaving their homes, others may have components that require in-person attendance, either on campus or at another site. Online programs offered by colleges with brick-and-mortar campuses may be taught in a hybrid or blended format, with some online and some in-person classes. Other online programs, like nursing, counseling, or teaching, require students to gain experience in the field through internships or clinical rotations, which they may need to complete in person.

    Avoiding online college scams

    The rise of online education has led to many benefits for college students. However, there are also downsides, including scams like diploma mills, which are more concerned with turning a profit than providing quality education. Online marketing may make these schools look legitimate, so it’s on students to be savvy and know the warning signs of a scam college. These include:

    • Lack of accreditation or accreditation by organizations that the U.S. Department of Education doesn’t recognize.
    • An unrealistic time frame for earning an online degree. For example, earning a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes a minimum of four years, in a few months.
    • A name that is very similar to a well-known, accredited institution. For example, San Francisco University is unaccredited, whereas San Francisco State University and the University of San Francisco are accredited, reputable institutions.
    • Tuition paid on a per-degree basis or offering discounts for enrolling in multiple online degree programs. Accredited institutions charge on a per-credit or per-term basis.
    • Lack of interaction with professors.
    • A P.O. Box or suite number in place of a physical street address.

    How to Choose the Best Online College for You

    Step 1: Determine which online learning option works for you

    Online programs can be delivered in a few different ways. Some are synchronous, meaning prospective students must attend online classes at designated days and times, as they would if they were in an in-person program. Others are asynchronous, meaning there are no set class times, and online students can access lessons and complete assignments on their own schedules. Some online programs may deliver courses through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous classes.

    Both delivery methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand your needs and learning habits to choose the type of online program that’s right for you.

    Asynchronous programs are the most flexible, which may be ideal for individuals balancing other responsibilities like full-time jobs and childcare. However, because there’s less oversight from faculty, online students must be comfortable working independently and have good time management and organization skills to succeed.

    Synchronous programs offer more real-time interaction with faculty and peers, so this might be a better option if you’ll need help staying focused and accountable. However, you will have to attend online classes according to a predetermined schedule.

    Step 2: Select your major

    Knowing what you want to study will help you choose the online program that’s right for you. Identifying your intended major requires research and self-reflection, says Villagomez.

    “Consider what you’re passionate about learning, what your long-term career goals are, and how a degree will help you achieve them,” she says. “There are many ways to explore your interests, including taking classes in a variety of subjects, participating in internships, joining student clubs or volunteer organizations, and networking with individuals in jobs that appeal to you.”

    Step 3: Set your parameters

    Your intended major and course delivery method are two key parameters that will help you narrow your search of potential online colleges. As you explore your options, you can set other parameters to help you find an online school that will meet your needs and wants.

    These parameters can include:

    • Public versus private institution
    • Tuition cost
    • Scholarship availability
    • Full-time versus part-time attendance
    • Student support services
    • School reputation and ranking
    • Faculty
    • Extracurricular activities

    Step 4: Research programs

    There are many ways to gather information about online colleges,  including visiting the school’s website and social media platforms, contacting admissions representatives, and requesting digital or print admissions materials.

    “Whenever possible, attend virtual informational sessions to gain a better sense of the program and the school,” says Villagomez. “This can help you get a feel for the culture and community at the university and determine if it is a good fit for you.”

    Villagomez also reminds online students that they don’t have to go through this process alone. “As you conduct your research, keep track of your findings and consult with a trusted teacher, school counselor, or mentor to help you understand your options,” she says. “They can provide valuable guidance and recommendations on how to choose the right fit.”

    How to Apply to Online College

    The application process for an online college will vary based on the individual school, program, and type of degree. When conducting your research, review the admissions qualifications for the school and the specific program you’re considering. Also, be mindful of deadlines, as missing cutoff dates for sending applications and materials can impact your admissions chances.

    It’s also important to remember that most online programs charge application fees. The average application fee is $45, which can add up depending on how many applications you’re submitting. To offset these costs, online students should determine if they’re eligible for fee waivers from organizations like the College Board or the Common Application.

    Typical Online College Application Requirements

    Official high school transcripts

    This is a standard requirement for first-time college students applying to associate or bachelor’s degree programs. Transcripts should be sent directly from your high school to the college’s admissions department.

    Official college transcripts

    A standard requirement for students who have college credits and are transferring to a different school, or who are applying to a graduate degree program after receiving an undergraduate degree. Transcripts should be sent directly from your college to the new school’s admissions department.

    Letters of recommendation

    Request recommendations from individuals who know you well, can speak to any abilities or qualities relevant to your intended online program, and will take the time to write a substantial, thoughtful reference.

    Personal statement

    Give yourself ample time to write your essays, and have a trusted counselor or instructor review them for clarity, length, grammar, and spelling before submitting.

    Standardized test scores

    For undergraduate students, the most common standardized tests are the SAT and ACT. The most widely-used standardized tests for graduate students are the GRE and GMAT. However, online students should note that, following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, more colleges are adopting test-optional policies.

    How to Get Financial Aid for Online College

    The process for getting financial aid for online college is very similar to the financial aid process for brick-and-mortar schools.

    College students should start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, which schools use to determine eligibility for federal student loans, work-study jobs, and need-based scholarships and grants. Individual states or schools may have additional applications that students need to complete to be considered for the full range of financial aid options. Consult with your school’s financial aid office to ensure you’re completing all the necessary steps for financial aid consideration.

    Unlike loans, most online programs offer need- and merit-based scholarships and grants, which are preferred financial aid options because they do not require repayment. Online students should also research scholarships from outside sources like businesses, nonprofits, community groups, and religious organizations. Students can utilize scholarship databases to find award opportunities based on factors like their intended major, race/ethnicity, or student status.

    Students who are currently employed or plan on working while attending school online should also research whether their employer offers tuition assistance benefits. This type of financial aid may look different based on the company offering it, but it typically consists of an employer reimbursing an employee for successfully completing college courses. The provision of tuition assistance to employees is becoming increasingly common.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges

    How much does online college cost?

    Multiple factors influence how much it costs to attend an online college.

    Public universities tend to charge lower tuition than private institutions, although in-state students typically pay less than out-of-state students. For example, in the 2020-21 academic year, the average annual undergraduate tuition and fees at public universities was $9,375 for in-state students and $27,091 for out-of-state students. The average tuition and fees at private schools, which charge the same regardless of student residency status, was $32,764. However, for online students, some public colleges charge the same tuition, regardless of where students live.

    Degree level also impacts program cost. In the 2020-21 academic year, the average annual tuition for graduate degree programs was $12,394 at public universities and $26,621 at private institutions.

    However, by attending college online, students can cut down on associated costs like room and board, transportation, and campus activities fees. Online students should be sure to budget for tech-related expenses, like a computer, webcam, microphone, and reliable internet access.

    How long does it take to earn an online degree?

    The length of time it takes to earn an online degree largely depends on the type of degree that you’re earning:

    • Associate degrees: Minimum of 60 credits; typically take at least two years of full-time study to complete.
    • Bachelor’s degrees: Minimum of 120 credits; typically take at least four years of full-time study to complete.
    • Master’s degrees: Minimum of 30 credits; typically take at least one year of full-time study to complete.
    • Doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees: Require 60-120 credits. Program duration varies based on dissertation and research requirements, but Ph.D. programs typically take a minimum of three years to complete.

    Because of the flexibility of online learning, many online colleges offer accelerated programs that can be completed in shorter time frames. This can include degree completion programs, which allow online students to maximize previously earned credits and earn a bachelor’s degree in as few semesters as possible, and accelerated programs that offer complete programs in a compressed timeline.

    A student’s enrollment status also affects how quickly they earn their online degree. Students who enroll part-time typically take longer to complete their online programs since they take fewer classes each term, but they still need to reach the minimum number of credits their degree requires.

    Do employers respect online colleges?

    “Every industry and employer will value online education differently, but most are very accepting of degrees from online colleges as long as there’s proof of accreditation,” Villagomez says. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated trends toward a wider acceptance of online colleges and degrees, with 75% of students enrolling in online classes during lockdowns.

    To understand how potential employers view candidates who attend college online, Villagomez encourages students to conduct informational interviews with employers or professionals in their intended field to understand their perceptions of online learning.

    Is attending an online college worth it?

    From a financial and career perspective, there are several benefits to earning a degree, whether it’s from an online college or a brick-and-mortar institution.

    For example, the more education an individual has, the more they’re likely to earn. Individuals with college degrees also experience lower unemployment rates than those without higher education experience. One contributing factor is that many jobs in fast-growing fields, such as chemical engineers, marketing managers, computer and IT managers, and health services managers, require a degree.

    However, Villagomez points out, “The value of attending an online college depends on various factors, including the reputation of the school and the program, student support services, the degree’s accreditation, and the specific career or educational path students are pursuing.”

    She adds, “Earning a degree online can be a very rewarding experience for those seeking to advance their career in a flexible, accessible way. But the return on investment ultimately depends on a student’s personal needs, educational goals, and potential career outcomes.”

    To help them make smart choices, Villagomez recommends that students consult an admissions counselor or trusted mentor to find the online learning program that best suits their needs and goals.

    Other Online College Rankings

    Frequently Asked Questions