Quick answer: An online degree is a real college degree earned mostly or fully online. It can be just as good as a campus degree if the school is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Online students can get federal financial aid too. Check accreditation, total cost and class format before you enroll.
Online learning is now normal
In fall 2024, about 55% of U.S. college students took at least one online course. About 26.5% (5.3 million students) studied only online.
Start with these guides
| Question | Read this |
|---|---|
| What is an online degree? | What Is an Online Degree? |
| Is it right for me? | Is Online Learning Right for You? A 10-Question Self-Check |
| Who does well online? | Who Is an Online Degree Right For? |
| What are the good and bad sides? | Online Degree Pros and Cons |
| Is the school real? | What Is Accreditation (and Why It Matters for Aid) |
| How do I pick a school? | Choosing the Right Online College: Checklist |
| Live or self-paced? | Online Class Formats: Live, Self-Paced, Hybrid |
| What is a class like? | What to Expect in an Online Class |
| How do I do well? | How to Get the Most From Online Learning: 10 Habits |
| What will it cost? | How Much Does an Online Degree Cost? |
| How do I sign up? | How to Enroll in an Online Degree: Step by Step |
Three checks before you enroll
- Accreditation. Search the school in the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation database (DAPIP).
- Your state. The school must be allowed to teach students in the state where you live, and a licensing program (like nursing or teaching) must meet your state’s rules.
- Cost and results. Compare cost per credit, graduation rate and graduate earnings on the College Scorecard.
Paying for an online degree
If the school and program are eligible, online students can get Pell Grants, federal loans and other aid. File the FAFSA. See Financial Aid and Scholarships.
Sources
- Postsecondary National Policy Institute: Distance learners factsheet (IPEDS fall 2024 data)
- U.S. Department of Education: Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
- U.S. Department of Education: College Scorecard
Last checked: November 6, 2026.