ONLINE COURSES SCHOLARSHIPS

25 Scholarships for Online Study

There are hundreds of scholarships for online students if you know where to look. You can find many of them just by doing a quick Google search. You can also find scholarships by looking on college websites. And you may discover others through articles about scholarships for online degrees like this one.

But are there really scholarships for online degree programs? Yes! You’re reading about them right now. We’ve searched dozens of resources to compose a list of 25 online degree scholarships. Sometimes, a scholarship search yields frustrating results. Students often find scholarship pages that are outdated or no longer relevant. We made sure all the scholarships on our list were current and legitimate. Which is sure to make your search easier.

The Advantages of Online Learning

There’s no denying that online learning is here to stay. Online education makes college a reality for those who can’t go to campus. Students can easily access courses, and there’s a lot of flexibility.

For example, you can create a class schedule that fits your schedule with online programs. You’re not tied to class times and can get assignments done when it is convenient for you. You can also complete your studies anywhere. And that’s great if you’ve got a full-time job and a family.

Online degree programs are also more affordable. In general, classes online are less expensive than ones on campus. There’s no need for on-campus expenses, food, or housing for online students. Furthermore, you can save on transportation costs (tolls, gas, parking).

Finally, today’s online degree programs are as respected as their counterparts on campus. Online students study the same content as in-person students. And generally, they also have the same instructors. Additionally, the diplomas are the same as those from on-campus classes. You won’t find any mention of online education.

Related: 5 Great Reasons to Attend Online College

Understanding Accreditation

School accreditation lets you know that a school meets specific academic standards. Accrediting agencies periodically review college programs to ensure students receive a quality education.

An accredited college is usually considered more prestigious than an unaccredited one. For example, employers may be more inclined to hire accredited college program graduates. In addition, some professions require licensing. In those cases, students generally have to complete an accredited program first. 

Students should ensure that their chosen college is accredited by a reputable organization. A school’s accreditation status is typically posted on its official website. And the college admissions office can provide more information.

See Also: Accredited Online Colleges by State

Scholarships as a Way To Pay for College

Once you have decided to pursue college online, the cost is most likely your next big question. There are many options, including financial aid and loans. But scholarships are an excellent way to help pay for part or even all the costs. And you can find online courses scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Scholarships are awards for college and university students to help them pay for college. They do not need to be repaid as a loan does. The funds typically come from donations through organizations.

Sometimes, a scholarship is a one-time award. Other times, the scholarship provides money to students every semester or school year. while attending. It is essential to know what type of scholarships are out there. Scholarships are available for just about every category you can imagine. The following is a brief summary of the most common kinds of scholarships:

Now that you have a better idea of what a scholarship is and what types are out there, here is our list of 25 Scholarships for Online Study.

1. AAUW Re-Entry Woman Scholarship

 Deadline: April 15th

This scholarship is open to Female non-traditional students who have already been accepted into a college. It is a $2,000 Re-Entry Women’s Scholarship. It is from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Poway-Penasquitos Branch. To be eligible, students must also be at least 23 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Also, they must live in northern San Diego County, matriculate for 6+ college credits, and have at least a 2.0-grade point average.

AAUW Re-Entry Woman Scholarship

• PO Box 262012
• San Diego, CA 92196
• (619) 200-2720
• membership@aauw-ca.org
• Scholarship Link

2. AFCEA Afghanistan and Iraq War Vet Scholarship

Deadline: May 31st

The Afghanistan and Iraq War Vet Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship open to active-duty and discharged US veterans. It is for those who are pursuing STEM majors either on-campus or online. It is offered by The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA). Qualifying majors include:

• Computer Engineering
• Robotics Technology
• Geospatial Science
• Mathematics
• Biometrics
• Electronics Engineering

The scholarship is only open to sophomores or juniors. They have to have served from 2003 to the present in the Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan or Iraqi Freedom operations.

AFCEA Afghanistan and Iraq War Vet Scholarship

• 4400 Fair Lakes Court
• Fairfax, VA 22033
• (703) 631-6147
• edfoundation@afcea.org
• Scholarship Link

3. Barbara Solomon Scholarships for Social Work

Deadline: May 31st

The Barbara Solomon Scholarships for Social Work gives six yearly recipients $5,000, $10,000, and full-tuition coverage. It is offered by Walden University. Students must be US citizens and have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5. Students must also have social services experience. A 1,000-word essay on a social issue affecting vulnerable populations is required.

Barbara Solomon Scholarships for Social Work

• 100 Washington Avenue S. Suite 900
• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401
• (866) 492-5336
• socialworkscholarship@waldenu.edu
• Scholarship Link

4. Berklee Online Music Scholarships

Deadline: Varies

The Berklee Online Music Scholarships award $1,479 each term to 16 incoming students enrolling in a 12-week online course. These courses must be for certificates such as Advanced Music Production or Creative Writing. To be eligible, students must complete the first course and hold a GPA of 3.7. They must also be recommended by an instructor and apply before the term’s fifth week. The online courses scholarships are sponsored by artists such as Gloria Estefan and Paul Simon.

Berklee Online Music Scholarships

• 855 Boylston Street, 7th Floor
• Boston, MA 02116
• (866) 237-5533
• advisors@online.berklee.edu
• Scholarship Link

5. Canyon Christian Schools Consortium Scholarship

Deadline: March 31st

The Canyon Christian Schools Consortium Scholarship grants $2,500 per year. It is for full-time students carrying 12+ credits. They must have graduated from a CCSC-member high school. It is offered by Grand Canyon University. Eligible applicants must have at least a secondary GPA of 3.0 score at least 19 on the ACT or 920 on the SAT. They must also take part in 20 hours of community service per semester. And they can not receive the GCU State University Grant at the same time.

Canyon Christian Schools Consortium Scholarship

• 3300 West Camelback Road
• Phoenix, AZ 85017
• (855) 428-5673
• campusadmissions@gcu.edu
• Scholarship Link

6. CSU-Global Academic Excellence Scholarship

Deadline: None

The Academic Excellence Scholarship is offered by The Colorado State University-Global Campus. This merit-based program covers six undergrad or grad credits for up to $3,000 yearly. Online students must be enrolled at least half-time. And they need to take courses that fulfill degree program requirements. They must also carry a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or better, file the FAFSA form, and write 1,000 characters about how CSU-Global has affected their lives.

CSU-Global Academic Excellence Scholarship

• 7800 East Orchard Road, Suite 200
• Greenwood Village, CO 80111
• (800) 920-6723
• Admissions@CSUGlobal.edu
• Scholarship Link

7. Dancia and Pierson Kirk Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: December 31st

The Dancia and Pierson Kirk Memorial Scholarship prizes $1,000 to support current AHIMA members. They must be pursuing a CAHIIM-accredited associate degree in health information technology. It is open to on-site and online students. Appropriate applicants will actively enroll in 6+ credits at U.S.-based colleges, have at least one term remaining, and show a minimum 3.5 GPA. The scholarship is offered by the American Information Management Association.

Dancia and Pierson Kirk Memorial Scholarship

• 233 N. Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor
• Chicago, IL 60601
• (312) 233-1131
• info@ahimafoundation.org
• Scholarship Link

8. Rainbow Business & Professional Association Scholarship

Deadline: March 25th

This scholarship recognizes students who have worked to:

1. Promote diversity
2. End bullying
3. Fight against discrimination against LGBTQ+ students

Only New England students can apply. They must be going to a college in the fall semester following the award year. Students can apply once for each degree program. This scholarship for online college is offered by the Rainbow & Professional Association. RBPA is an organization of professionals on a mission to end inequality through education.

RBPA Scholarship Fund, Inc

• PO Box 11148
• Portland, Maine 04104
• 207-775-0077
• RBPAwebsite@gmail.com

9. Full Sail Education Media Scholarship

Deadline: Friday, two weeks before term

The Education Media Scholarship grants up to $12,000 to certified K-12 professionals. It is offered by Full Sail University, an ACCSC-accredited, Orlando-based online college. They must be pursuing their master’s degree online. Scholarship Funds cover tuition for the MFA in Creative Writing, MS in Instructional Design & Technology, or MFA in Media Design. They also offer other scholarships for online courses. These include the Courage and Creativity Scholarship and Momentum Scholarship. Full Sail is one of the few online colleges with grants.

Full Sail Education Media Scholarship

• 3300 University Boulevard
• Winter Park, FL 32792
• (800) 226-7625
• admissions@fullsail.edu
• Scholarship Link

10. GetEducated.com Distance Learning Scholarship

Deadline: October 15th or March 15th

GetEducated.com is an online education guide started in 1998. They offer the Distance Learning Scholarship for $1,000 to United States citizens twice a year. They must be entering the virtual classroom for an undergrad or post-grad degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. To apply, please submit a transcript, FAFSA form, and 500-word essay titled “What an Online College Degree Means to Me.”

GetEducated.com Distance Learning Scholarship

• PO Box 458
• Monterey, VA 24465
• info@GetEducated.com
• Scholarship Link

11. Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley Scholarships

Deadline: varies

The next option is through The Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley (HFSV) and the University of Phoenix. They offer three full-tuition scholarships for online college per year. They must be online students who have completed the Latino Board Leadership Academy. Eligible Hispanic candidates must be US citizens or DACA recipients. They must meet UOPX admission terms and matriculate for 6+ credits on the eCampus. They must also maintain good standing in online undergraduate degree or master’s programs. Employees or relatives of Apollo Education Group aren’t accepted.

Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley Scholarships

• 1625 W. Fountainhead Parkway
• Tempe, AZ 85282
• (866) 766-0766
• scholarships@phoenix.edu
• Scholarship Link

12. James L. and Nellie M. Westlake Scholarship

Deadline: February 1st

Scholarship America is the United States’ largest private education foundation. It has granted over $3.7 billion to on-campus, online students in hundreds of funds. The James L. and Nellie M. Westlake Scholarship offers a $2,000 plus full tuition. Missouri residents with an EFC of $7,000 or less can apply for the merit-based option. Online learners could also consider the Dunkin’ Donuts Scholarship or Catch a Break! Scholarship.

James L. and Nellie M. Westlake Scholarship

• One Scholarship Way
• Saint Peter, MN 56082
• (507) 931-1682
• dwillson@scholarshipamerica.org

13. Mark Bonin Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: None

The Mark Bonin Memorial Scholarship awards $2,500 to online students. It was named after the WGU Community Relations Manager, who died in 2016. Eligible students must be enrolling in WGU. Specifically, they need to attend the College of Health Professions. Applications are only accepted from 10 Southern California counties. Future healthcare leaders must also be officially admitted to a BS or MS program. They must also complete haveSA, and have an unencumbered RN license.

Mark Bonin Memorial Scholarship

• 4001 South 700 East, Suite 700
• Salt Lake City, UT 84107
• (877) 435-7948
• studentservices@wgu.edu
• Scholarship Link

14. American Indian Science and Engineering Society

Deadline: May 31st

Indigenous students who want to go into aerospace can apply for this scholarship. The student must be pursuing an undergraduate degree or graduate studies in Washington. It’s a $5000 scholarship with extra help for students with children. Eligible students must also have a GPA of at least 3.0. The scholarship is offered by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society.

American Indian Science and Engineering Society

• 6321 Riverside Plaza Lane NW, Unit A
• Albuquerque, NM 87120
• 505.765.1052
• applications@educationaid.org
• Scholarship Link

15. Nitro College Scholarship

Deadline: last day of each month

Nitro is a website that teaches you everything you need to know about student loans and other ways to pay for college. Their $2000 scholarship is open to all US students who apply. You can also join their referral program for more opportunities. Students must be at least 17 years old and a US resident. Nitro offers this scholarship once a month.

Nitro College Scholarship

• 1105 North Market Street, Suite 1600
• Wilmington, Delaware 19801
• Support@NitroCollege.com
• Scholarship Link

16. Penn State World Campus Scholarships

Deadline: September 15th

Penn State World Campus is Penn state’s online college. We always consider World Campus when searching for scholarships for online colleges. The school offers scholarships to first-year and returning undergrads who will study online. Funding helps cover the $542 per credit cost for online PSU degrees like the BA in Economics, BS in Political Science, and BS in Turfgrass Science. Eligible candidates must enroll at least half-time, exhibit financial need on the FAFSA form, and display a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Penn State World Campus Scholarships

• 109 Shields Building
• University Park PA 16802
• (914) 865-0461
• financialaid@outreach.psu.edu
• Scholarship Link

17. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarships

Deadline: December 1st

The Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society partners with 750 US institutions to offer grants. They consist of more than $37 million in Transfer Scholarships annually. Distance learning students at online colleges can apply for up to $7,500. Applicants must be PTK members, have finished an associate degree or 50+ credits, and transfer with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater.

Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarships

• 1625 Eastover Drive
• Jackson, MS 39211
• (800) 946-9995
• laurie.brown@ptk.org
• Scholarship Link

18. Mesothelioma.com Scholarship

Deadline: March 31st

Mesothelioma.com is thrilled to award $4,000 to a student whose life has been affected by cancer. The students must either have battled cancer themselves or have a family member who has (not just mesothelioma). Students with good grades that have a financial need and show dedication to their future are eligible. Mesothelioma.com has been providing the latest medical information on mesothelioma since 1996. Its mission is to spread awareness about asbestos dangers and connect people with resources.

Mesothelioma.Com

• 35 Thorpe Avenue, Suite 101
• Wallingford, CT 06492
• (800) 336-0086
• webmaster@mesothelioma.com
• Scholarship Link

19. Rachael L. Carter Scholarship Fund

Deadline: July 1st

The Rachael L. Carter Scholarship Fund awards $1,000 to single mothers. They must be pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in General Studies online with one of 19 minors like Accountancy or Fire Administration. It is offered by the School of Distance Learning at Western Illinois University. Students must have completed 24+ credits at accredited colleges, be admitted full- or part-time to WIU courses, and sustain at least a 2.5 GPA.

Rachael L. Carter Scholarship Fund

• 1 University Circle
• Macomb, IL 61455
• (309) 298-1929
• BGS@wiu.edu
• Scholarship Link

20. Greenhouse Scholars Scholarships

Deadline: Weekly and monthly

Greenhouse Scholars Scholarships are for first-year students. They must be from Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, or North Carolina. These need-based scholarships are renewable. The students must have excellent leadership skills and be able to endure challenges. And they have to care about and commit to their communities. The student must have a GPA of 3.5 or above. Greenhouse Scholars is a group of leaders. These individuals use education to help and change underserved communities locally and worldwide. The goal is to give students the financial, professional, and personal resources they need. By doing this, they will be able to create lasting change in their own lives and others’ lives.

Greenhouse Scholars

• 1820 Folsom Street
• Boulder, CO 80302
• (720) 449-7444
• info@greenhousescholars.org
• Scholarship Link

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22. Pride Foundation Scholarship

Deadline: April 25th

The Pride Foundation is a Northwest organization. They offer financial support and community-based programs for LGBTQ+ student leaders. They’ve awarded more than $7 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students. Those included Alaskans, Idahoans, Montanaians, Oregonians, and Washingtonians. The Pride Foundation offers more than 60 scholarships. Students that identify as LGBTQ or are questioning can apply. But they must live in one of the eligible states.

Pride Foundation

• 2014 E. Madison St, Suite 300
• Seattle, WA 98122
• (206) 323-3318
• craig@pridefoundation.org
• Scholarship Link

23. Tribute Foundation Scholarship Program

Deadline: June 30th

The New York State Tribute Foundation Scholarship Program is for mortuary science students. The award is $6,000 per semester. And both on-campus and online students are eligible. They must be entering their first or second year of an accredited online degree program for mortuary science. Scholarly candidates must reside in the “Empire State,.” And they need to aspire for the funeral service profession and hold a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater. Students must also submit a 500-word essay. Or, they can submit a five-minute video. The video should discuss why the student will be a good funeral director.

Tribute Foundation Scholarship Program

• 1 South Family Drive
• Albany, NY 12205
• (518) 452-8230
• tribute@tributefoundation.org
• Scholarship Link

24. Waldorf Hero Behind the Hero Scholarships

Deadline: February 28th, May 31st, August 31st, or November 30th

Waldorf University proudly covers tuition with eight Hero Behind the Hero Scholarships. They are worth $17,100 each term. Scholarship money is reserved for the spouses or children of America’s military and public safety personnel. Online undergraduate students must have a high school diploma or GED, register for courses within 90 days, and maintain a cumulative GPA above 2.0.

Waldorf Hero Behind the Hero Scholarships

• 106 South 6th Street
• Forest City, IA 50436
• (888) 785-3006
• scholarships@waldorf.edu
• Scholarship Link

25. Washington State ASWSU Global Scholarship

Deadline: July 1st, November 1st, or March 15th

The ASWSU Global Scholarship is based on merit and financial need. It is offered by The Washington State University Global Campus. It is open to online students who are completing 6+ credits in the 10 undergrad or 11 post-grad degree programs. Students must pay online S&A fees and complete the FAFSA form. They must also excel with a 3.0 GPA or better and write a 700-word statement about their online learning experiences.

Washington State ASWSU Global Scholarship

• PO Box 645220
• Pullman WA 99164
• (509) 335-9711
• scholarships@wsu.edu
• Scholarship Link

Other Scholarships for Online Students



26. Doris Day Animal Foundation Scholarship

The Doris Day Animal Foundation Scholarship was established by one of the most famous advocates for animal welfare. These scholarships are for students at the University of California at Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Outstanding college students getting a specialty in veterinary shelter medicine will be given preference. The scholarship is to help disadvantaged pet populations and improve the quality of life for homeless animals.

Doris Day Animal Foundation Scholarship

• 8033 Sunset Blvd. Suite 845
• Los Angeles, CA 90046
• (530) 752-1001
• pjbailey@ucdavis.edu
• Scholarship Link

27. Archdiocesan Scholarships

Archdiocesan Scholarships are the most prestigious awards at the Catholic University of America. They provide full tuition to five incoming freshmen. They must be undergraduate students with excellent academic records and great potential. Candidates must be enrolled full-time and have a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher. Plus, high school seniors have to be in the top ten% of class and have a minimum SAT score of 1450 or ACT score of 32.

Archdiocesan Scholarships

• 620 Michigan Avenue NE
• Washington, DC 20064
• (202) 319-5305
• cua-admissions@cua.edu
• Scholarship Link

28 Delta Wildlife Annual Scholarship

Delta Wildlife Annual Scholarships are given to Mississippi residents. They are for college students studying forest resources. They must be attending Mississippi State University’s College of Forest Resources. Applicants must major in Wildlife Management, Fisheries, Aquaculture, or Forestry. Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on:

1. Academic achievement
2. Leadership
3. Financial need
4. Participation in outdoor activities related to their careers.

Delta Wildlife helps to improve wildlife habitats.

Delta Wildlife Annual Scholarship

• 107 Thompson Hall
• P.O. Box 9680
• Mississippi State, MS 39762
• (662) 325-9376
• lmiller@cfr.msstate.edu
• Scholarship Link

29. Diversity at Microsoft Tuition Scholarships

Microsoft offers full and partial tuition scholarships to college students from underrepresented groups. The program is in honor of diversity. Applicants must enroll full-time at a university for STEM degrees. They can study subjects like computer science, computer engineering, or software development. They must also have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Preference is given to applications that show leadership in promoting diversity.

Diversity at Microsoft Tuition Scholarships

• One Microsoft Way
• Redmond, WA 98052
• (800) 426-9400
• scholars@microsoft.com
• Scholarship Link

30. DigiPen Graduate Students Scholarships

Several scholarships of up to $5,000 are awarded each year at DigiPen Institute of Technology. The awards go to new students enrolled in either:

1. Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science
2. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Digital Arts with a game design concentration

Candidates must demonstrate artistic talent in their portfolios. And graduate students need to have a history of high academic performance.

DigiPen Graduate Scholarships

• 9331 Willows Road NE
• Redmond, WA 98052
• (866) 478-5236
• info@digipen.edu
• Scholarship Link

31. Berrien Fragos Thorn Arts Scholarships for Migrant Farmworkers

Geneseo Migrant Center awards $2,500 scholarships twice a year. They are for undergraduate students interested in visual, performing, media, crafts, and literary arts. The minimum age to apply is 16 years of age, and you must be ambitious to get a job in agriculture. Candidates must also submit a letter of recommendation, proof of expenses, and a portfolio of their work.

Berrien Fragos Thorn Arts Scholarships for Migrant Farmworkers

• 3 Mt. Morris-Leicester Rd.
• Leicester, NY 14481
• (585) 658-7960
• mreho@gvboces.org
• Scholarship Link

32. 1800wheelchair.com Scholarship

Every year, 1800wheelchair.com gives away two $500 scholarships. They go to undergraduate students with mobility issues. Students must be high school seniors or be enrolled in a college with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Students must write an essay or poem between 750 and 1,000 words addressing a specific question. 1900wheelchair.com sells wheelchairs and other medical equipment for disabled people.

1800wheelchair.com Scholarship

• 320 Roebling St. Suite 515
• Brooklyn, NY 11211
• (718) 302-1923
• info@1800wheelchair.com
• Scholarship Link

33. Adrienne M. & Charles Shelby Rooks Fellowship for Racial & Ethnic Theological Students

The Adrienne M. & Charles Shelby Rooks Fellowship is also for traditional or online college students. The grant is for those who want a seminary education. They must be underrepresented members of the United Church of Christ. This is a renewable award between $500 and $5,000. Students must be enrolled in an accredited school of theology and hold a B average in college.

The Adrienne M. and Charles Shelby Rooks Fellowship

• Local Church Ministries
• 700 Prospect Ave E.
• Cleveland, OH 44115
• 216-736-3839
• Scholarship Link

34. California Association for the Gifted Intellectual and Artistic Scholarship

Next up is the California Association for the Gifted Intellectual and Artistic Scholarships. These $1,000 gifts go to high school seniors or juniors. Online college students must enroll in advanced higher education at a California school next year. The focus is not on GPA or financial needs. Instead, this scholarship supports individuals’ passion for learning or creating. Preference is given to those who excel in a chosen field.

California Association for the Gifted Intellectual and Artistic Scholarship

• 9278 Madison Avenue
• Orangevale, CA 95662
• (916) 988-3999
• cagoffice@aol.com
• Scholarship Link

35. Bachus & Schanker, LLC Scholarship

Every year, Bachus & Schanker, LLC gives awards one $2,000 scholarship. This is for high school seniors or college students. who need money for tuition. Students must be accepted into an accredited US four-year college with a 3.0 GPA or better. And they have to be enrolled full-time. Interested applicants must submit a max 800-word essay. It should be about the importance of the Seventh Amendment and how it affects them. With over 20 years of experience, Bachus & Schanker, LLC is a Colorado-based injury law firm,

Bachus & Schanker, LLC Scholarship

• 1899 Wynkoop Street Suite 700
• Denver, CO 80202
• (303) 222-2222
• scholarship@coloradolaw.net
• Scholarship Link

36. Elks National Foundation Legacy Scholarships

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks National Foundation awards 250 scholarships worth $1,000 each per year for $4,000 each. Participants need to be related somehow to active Elks members. Eligible candidates include:

• Children
• Stepchildren
• Grandchildren

Recipients can use the funds at any accredited US college. Or they can attend a community college or vocational school if they do community service.

Elks National Foundation Legacy Scholarships

• 2750 N. Lakeview Avenue
• Chicago, IL 60614
• (773) 755-4732
• scholarship@elks.org
• Scholarship Link

More About Scholarships for Online Degree Programs



Online programs are convenient for adults with existing work and family obligations. And they are getting super popular, too. According to one source, over 50 percent of students now take at least one course online. This is a big jump from the 37 percent reported in 2019. The COVID pandemic plus more innovative options seem to have spurred the trend. 

It doesn’t matter if you enroll on campus or online. Most undergraduate and graduate students need some financial aid. It’s usually a necessity if you want to complete your education. Online students are often eligible for the same financial aid as students on campus. And there are plenty of additional online-specific scholarships and awards.

In this section, we will explore the costs of college. And we will also examine some financial aid options for attending a great online school. 

Financial Issues Facing Online Students

Previously, we discussed the financial benefits of attending an online college. But now, we’ll delve into some of the hidden money issues some students may face with online programs. 

Most of the time, remote students save a lot of money by attending online colleges. But that isn’t always the case. Sometimes, online degrees come with unexpected hidden charges. 

For example, out-of-state online students may have to pay more than in-state students. This all depends on the school. While some online colleges charge in-state tuition to out-of-state learners, some do not. So this is something to consider when assessing the best online colleges. 

Travel expenses may also be a factor. Some online programs require undergraduate students to visit campus periodically. But if you live nowhere near the school, this can get expensive. 

Additionally, you might encounter other miscellaneous fees. These may include technical charges, such as Wi-Fi and a laptop. They may also include graduation fees as a hidden cost of your distance learning degree program. 

You May Also Like: 5 Hidden Costs of Online College

Finding Balance as an Online Student



Returning to school can be stressful for nontraditional students. Students who work full-time may experience a lot of frustration managing their time. They need to attend classes, study, and complete assignments to be successful. But this also means there is less time for work, managing a household, and taking care of family. 

Additionally, the cost of higher education is a barrier. It is becoming more and more expensive to attend college. Nontraditional students may have fewer financial resources for college. And they often dont have the family support other students have.

Nontraditional students also struggle with living expenses. This includes daycare, mortgage payments, and other bills. A tuition payment is an extra financial burden in these cases. So online students need scholarships to meet their unique budgeting challenges.

The Different Types of Financial Help for Online Students

Just because you attend an online college doesn’t mean you dont qualify for financial aid. In some cases, you might qualify for student aid just for being an online student. Let’s look at a few of the financial options out there.

Scholarships: A Recap

You do not have to repay the money when you get a scholarship. Scholarships are often awarded based on merit. But they are granted on other criteria too. Students are responsible for finding and applying for scholarships on their own. Students must also maintain eligibility over each renewal period. For example, some students must maintain a certain GPA to be eligible for payments.

Scholarships: How to Apply

Scholarship applications can be intimidating. A system can help streamline the process. Start early, conduct research, and follow application instructions in an organized manner. As a result, you will be less stressed and more productive.

See Also: Where to Find the Best Scholarships by Student Demographic

TIPS AND TRICKS TO MAKE THE PROCESS GO SMOOTHLY

Start looking for scholarships early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Be prepared for each application to take longer than expected. Make a mock deadline ahead of the actual due date.Organize your time. It doesn’t matter whether you are applying for one of 100 scholarships. Keep track of deadlines, materials, and assessment materials to avoid duplication of effort.

Take the time to read up on all scholarships as soon as you find them. After that, place them either in the “yes” or “no” category. Make sure you understand the terms of each award. This way, you can avoid missing out on a scholarship that’s a great fit. And you won’t time applying for something you’re not eligible for.

Follow directions precisely. Scholarship applications require specific materials and information for consideration. You may not be eligible if you don’t follow directions or have the right materials.

Write a great essay. Your essay is a way to highlight your skills and strengths. It will differentiate you from the other candidates. Be thoughtful when you craft your responses. Proofread for spelling and grammar errors several times.

Student Loans

College students who study online can also consider traditional student loads. Student loans must be repaid, unlike scholarships and grants. With student loans, the U.S. Department of Education acts as your lender. There are kinds of loans through the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. You will want to familiarize yourself with these loans to understand your eligibility. They include:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans
• Direct Consolidation Loans
• Direct PLUS Loans

How To Complete the FAFSA 



Financial aid options often seem limited for online learners compared to on-campus students. Yet, distance learners are generally eligible for the same aid programs as their campus peers. Online students need to complete the FAFSA to determine their financial aid eligibility.

Students can complete the FAFSA online. For verification purposes, learners must submit their federal tax information. They also must provide identification information. This might be a driver’s license and social security number.

Related: What is a FAFSA Application?

Other Types of Financial Aid for Online Students

Grants

Most grants are based on need, although some are based on merit. A student does not have to repay a grant once they have completed their program. The Education Department is one of the largest providers of student grants. They do this through programs like the Federal Pell Grant. A student with financial needs can apply automatically for federal grant funds. They do this through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Work-Study

Participating schools can pay students for part-time work through the Federal Work-Study Program. It may not always be possible to place students in jobs related to their field. But most schools do everything possible to make it happen. Students may work on or off-campus as part of the work-study program. Undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs are eligible.

Fellowships

Graduate students often receive fellowships. Usually, these are merit-based awards. They are given to students pursuing a graduate degree in their areas of expertise. Usually, students earn them if they can prove they can do some good in their field after they graduate. 



Closing Thoughts

The Georgetown CEW says college grads earn 84 percent more than high school grads throughout their careers. Average lifetime earnings are currently:

• $1.72 million for associates degree program graduates
• $2.26 million for bachelor’s degree program graduates
• $2.67 million for master’s degree program graduates

If you can afford the upfront tuition investment, an online college will pay off. Distance learning colleges have gotten better at supporting non-traditional students. Online college students can also get federal financial aid, such as the Pell Grant. That is, as long as they attend an accredited college.