20 Accredited Online Colleges No Application Fee 2023

Online Colleges No Application Fee

If you are looking for affordable online colleges with no application fee and low tuition, then you have come to the right place! In this article, we have listed the top 20 colleges known for their affordable tuition and no application fee. These schools have simplified the application for online college. This has made it easy for students to choose the right program and enroll. These colleges and universities also have a team of admissions or enrollment advisors ready to help students. It’s their job to guide them through the admissions process and point them to any financial aid programs available.

Featured Programs

Even before the pandemic, online programs were gaining in popularity. Both undergraduate programs and graduate programs were seeing increased enrollment. Online education is ideal for getting a degree without leaving a day job. Then COVID hit, and stay-at-home orders and economic uncertainties became a part of everyday life. The need for online degree options became obvious. Applications for online programs saw a dramatic increase. Even full-time students and those seeking financial aid began seeing the benefits of online schools. Online education helped students overcome the challenges to continue their education.  When the urgency of the pandemic decreased, online education proved it was here to stay.


Students desiring to apply to online colleges should know how confusing this process can be, though. With so many options and expenses, it can be overwhelming. We’re here to help. The online schools we have listed understand how expensive applications can get. That’s why they have waived their fees and opened their admission to everyone. Plus, these schools top the list for their academics, affordability, diversity, and inclusion. In essence, they’re the answer to colleges with no application fee! Please note that the following colleges with free applications are simply listed, not ranked. Tuitions costs were taken from the National Center for Educational Statistics College Navigator.

#20. University of Dayton 

Dayton, OH

Website
Undergraduate Tuition: $46,170
Graduate Tuition: $18,540

University of Dayton- logo

The University of Dayton is a private Catholic research university. It is also the second-largest private university in Ohio. Founded by the Society of Mary in 1850, it is one of three Marianist universities nationwide. The school has a streamlined and efficient application procedure with no application fee. Students enjoy automatic consideration for merit scholarships as well. The Princeton Review, the University of Dayton ranks among the Top 50 “Colleges that Create Futures.” They also name them among the Top 15 “Best Schools for Internships.” Approximately 97% of its graduates are employed within six months of graduation. It also ranks as the #1 Catholic University for federally sponsored engineering research & development. U.S. News and World Report have highly ranked their online graduate degrees in business administration. Online certificate programs are also available to graduate students. The Higher Learning Commission accredits the university.

Fast Facts

  • Zero college application fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#19. Maryville University of St. Louis

St. Louis, MO 

Website
Undergraduate Tuition: $27,166
Graduate Tuition: $14,346

Maryville University- logo

Maryville University of St. Louis was founded by the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1872. The school offers a wide range of online programs along with traditional ones. It is one of the more diverse online schools and serves students from 50 states and 47 countries. There is no application fee for students applying to the college. Plus, financial aid is available. Maryville University offers over 90 degrees for prospective students to choose from. This includes programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Online certificate programs are also available with no college application fees. The nationally recognized private institution offers a comprehensive and innovative education. It is focused on student learning, outcomes, and success. The Chronicle of Higher Education ranks Maryville as the second fastest-growing university. It is also one of our best online colleges with no application fee. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Maryville University.

Fast Facts

  • Free application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#18. Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL 

Website
Undergraduate Tuition: $49,498
Graduate Tuition: $19,440

Loyola University Chicago- logo

Loyola University Chicago is a private Jesuit research university. It was founded in 1870 by the Society of Jesus. Today, it makes our list of the top online colleges with no application fee nationwide. Residency status is not a factor that is considered in admission. All students are welcome to apply to LUC regardless of their citizenship or residency status. Loyola University is one of the largest Catholic universities in the United States. Students do not need to seek a waiver for college application fees. The online admission application process is free for undergraduate students. Plus, it applies to graduate programs and professional programs as well. Students can start their application and complete it at their own pace.  The Higher Learning Commission accredits Loyola University to offer bachelor’s degree programs.

Fast Facts

  • Zero College Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#17. LeTourneau University

Longview, TX 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $34,470
Graduate Tuition: $16,875

LeTourneau University - logo

LeTourneau University is a private, interdenominational Christian university. It is one of the country’s leading online colleges with no application fee. LeTourneau was originally designed to educate veterans returning from World War II. Today, students from all backgrounds can choose from options on-campus or online options and start their free application process. They can also choose from:

  • 100% online program offerings
  • Accelerated evening programs
  • Graduate programs
  • Classes at any of LeTourneau’s remote educational centers around Texas

Daytime classes are held at LeTourneau’s main campus in Longview, Texas. Residential undergraduate students and local commuters can attend these programs instead of the online program. 

Fast facts:

  • Zero College Application Fees
  • Format: Online College
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

#16. The University of Scranton

Scranton, PA

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $50,312
Graduate Tuition: $11,580

University of Scranton- logo

A leader in online learning, the University of Scranton is a private Jesuit university. It was founded as St. Thomas College in 1888 by William O’Hara, the first Bishop of Scranton. Today, the school is known for:

  • Its personal attention
  • Outstanding academic quality
  • Familial community

First-year students, transfer applicants, and international and adult students can apply for degrees. The application is free for students with high school transcripts through The Common Application. The school serves nearly 3,700 undergraduate students. There are 1,300 graduate students. The University of Scranton is nationally recognized among the “Best Colleges.” For these reasons, it has also made our list of top colleges with no application fee.

Fast Facts

  • Zero College Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

#15. Colorado Technical University 

Colorado Springs, CO

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $12,696
Graduate Tuition: $13,937

 Colorado Technical University - logo

Colorado Technical University is a for-profit university. It is among the nation’s best online colleges with no application fee. Founded in 1965, and Perdoceo Education Corporation owns it. About 92% of the school’s students are fully online. These distance learners study in various undergraduate, graduate school, and doctoral degree programs. Popular choices include business, management, and technology. An applicant can schedule a meeting with admissions advisors. They help students identify what they need to gather to submit an application. This is one of the best colleges without application fee requirements. Plus, students with high school transcripts can complete the application online. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited CTU.

Fast Facts

  • Zero College Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#14. Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $17,614
Graduate Tuition: $23,607

 Michigan Technological University- logo

Michigan Technological University is a public research university. It ranks among the best online colleges with no application fee nationwide. Applying to Michigan Tech is free, easy, and online. Plus, there are no deadline or application fee waivers. No test scores are needed for domestic students, either. Official SAT or ACT scores, or an essay, are required for merit scholarship consideration. Students may also apply for scholarships without test scores or college application fees. The school is looking for applicants who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in:

  • Arts
  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences
  • Business and Economics
  • Computing
  • Engineering

Other popular areas of study include:

  • Forestry and Environmental Sciences
  • Health professions
  • Mathematics
  • Natural and Physical Sciences
  • Secondary Teacher Certification
  • Technology 

The Higher Learning Commission accredits Michigan Tech.

Fast Facts

  • Zero College Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#13. Brescia University

Owensboro, KY 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $27,950
Graduate Tuition: $15,500

 Brescia University- logo

One of the top colleges with no application fee in the United States is Brescia University. This Catholic university was founded as a junior college for women. It now offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs open to all. Students can choose a program and then begin by simply filling out an application. There’s no application fee for students who apply online. To start the application process, they have to choose the appropriate program and click on the link. A staff of committed admissions counselors will guide applicants through this exciting process. Applicants can be first-time freshmen, transfer students, online students, or non-traditional students. 

Fast Facts

  • No Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12. Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $15,380
Graduate Tuition: $18,900

Southern New Hampshire University - logo

Southern New Hampshire University, or SNHU, is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. It also holds national accreditation for degrees in areas like:

  • Hospitality
  • Health
  • Education
  • Business Administration

Related:

Top Online Nursing Degrees

The school is renowned as a nonprofit university and one of the online colleges with no application fee. Its mission is to make bachelor’s degrees and other credentials more accessible for students who want to attend school online. To do this, the school delivers the same high-quality college education for a radically more affordable price. SNHU does not require an application fee, letters of recommendation, or essays. The admission process is easy and simple. There are advisors and an admission counselor ready to help students apply for online colleges and programs. The admission decision, official credit evaluation, and merit scholarship are made within 30 days of receipt of all application materials. Students who complete the college application process are also advised to apply for federal student aid.

Fast Facts

  • No Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

#11. Johnson & Wales University

Providence, RI

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $37,792
Graduate Tuition: $15,156

Johnson & Wales University - logo

A leader in online education, Johnson & Wales University, or JWU, is a private university. It was founded as a business administration school in 1914 by Gertrude I. Johnson and Mary T. Wales. The school offers both early action and rolling admissions options. Students can choose from graduate, undergraduate, and online programs, including bachelor’s degrees. There is no fee to apply for online colleges and programs at JWU. Whether submitted online or in print, the college application process takes less than 30 minutes to complete. The financial aid team helps students succeed in their online degree programs. Admissions require a completed application and high school transcripts. College transcripts are required for students applying for transfer credits or online graduate programs. 

Fast Facts

  • Free Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

#10. Baker University

Kansas City, MO

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $32,320
Graduate Tuition: $11,466

Baker University - logo

Renowned for its academic excellence in online learning, Baker University was founded in 1858. It is home to four schools. These include the following:

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • School of Nursing
  • School of Professional and Graduate Studies
  • School of Education

Enrolled students fully engage in their education and connect with peers, faculty, and staff. Baker University has recently made changes to its admissions requirements for current students. There is no application fee, though official transcripts may be required to complete the online application form.  All admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Small class sizes and extensive interaction with instructors and fellow students promote a community of belonging. Baker University is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Fast Facts

  • Zero Application Fees
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#9. Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800
Graduate Tuition: $10,655

Grand Canyon University logo

Grand Canyon University is a private, for-profit university ranked as the largest Christian university in the world. The school offers its academic programs to 20,000 attending students on campus and 70,000 online. The university is dedicated to helping students change their lives for the better. Students should note that for online degree programs, classes start every week. Plus, the application to GCU is free.  The GCU admissions team reviews official transcripts within 24 hours. They then provide applicants with a graduation plan, including:

  • Start date options
  • Estimated costs
  • Estimated graduation date

GCU’s highly-rated online degree programs (including online graduate programs) offer flexibility and quality education. They are designed to help students thrive in today’s complex business world. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the school. Financial assistance may be available to eligible students.

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#8. McKendree University

Lebanon, IL

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $33,430
Graduate Tuition: $9,450

 McKendree University - logo

McKendree University is an online college. It was founded as a private university in 1828 as the Lebanon Seminary. Today, the school enrolls approximately 2,300 undergraduates and nearly 700 graduate students representing 25 countries and 29 states. There is no fee for undergraduate degree applications. This includes students attending college for the first time or who have previously attended a post-secondary institution. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available for applicants, including international students. In addition to online degree programs, campus locations include:

  • Lebanon (Illinois)
  • Online
  • Center at Scott Air Force Base (Illinois)
  • Radcliff (Kentucky)

McKendree University is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#7. Norwich University

Northfield, VT 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $45,340
Graduate Tuition: $20,280

Norwich University - logo

Norwich University (The Military College of Vermont) is a private military academy. The school currently offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees on-campus and online. It is the oldest private and senior military college in the United States. There is no application fee to the online college. But, admissions for undergraduate degree and graduate degree programs is competitive. Norwich University is a rolling admissions school. It is also one of the top online colleges and universities in our ranking. Applications that come in past deadlines are only accepted based on available space. Applications are carefully reviewed and evaluated by the Office of Admissions. Recommendations are made according to the specific bachelor’s degrees students plan to pursue. 

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

#6. Chadron State College

Chadron, NE 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,834
Graduate Tuition: $4,650

 Chadron State College - logo

Chadron State College is one of three public colleges in the Nebraska State College System. CSC strives to provide quality education at an affordable price. It has an open admissions policy and an acceptance rate of 100%. The accredited online college offers a variety of academic programs to fit one’s education goals. This includes including online graduate programs. Whether a student is starting on a bachelor’s or master’s degree or looking for transfer admissions, enrollment advisors are ready to help. It is free to apply to CSC. Students can complete and submit their applications with official transcripts fully online. Applications may be considered after the priority deadlines. Still, students are encouraged to apply to undergraduate degree programs as early as possible. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Chadron State.

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#5. Lindsey Wilson College

Columbia, KY

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $26,228
Graduate Tuition: $9,635

 Lindsey Wilson College - logo

Lindsey Wilson College is a private United Methodist college. It was founded in 1903 as Lindsey Wilson Training School. Today, the online college offers rolling admissions. This means prospective students with official transcripts can apply throughout the year. Degree programs are offered at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Like all the top online colleges in this ranking, Lindsey Wilson College does not have an application fee. Students who desire an online bachelor’s degree are encouraged to apply as early as possible. This will maximize scholarship opportunities and guarantee the best academic schedule possible. Still, financial aid packages featuring scholarship money can only be offered after students apply to Lindsey Wilson and are accepted.

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

#4. Franciscan University of Steubenville

Steubenville, OH 

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $30,080
Graduate Tuition: $12,960

 Franciscan University of Steubenville - logo

The Franciscan University of Steubenville is a private Catholic university. Its mission is to set students on a path to intellectual, professional, and spiritual formation. The accredited online university offers 75 rigorous and demanding academic programs of study. This “faithfully Catholic university” offers associate, bachelor, and master degree programs (on-campus and online). The college admissions team helps applicants every step of the way. This includes answering their questions about admissions requirements and processes. It also involves helping them choose an undergraduate major or graduate program that suits them best. Students can complete the free application for admission online. This process only takes about 15 minutes. No essay or letters of recommendation are required to accept an online bachelor’s degree program. The university is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Fast Facts

  • Free Online Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#3. Rhodes College

Memphis, TN

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $52,310
Graduate Tuition: $52,000

Rhodes College - logo

Known for its online degree programs, Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college. It has been historically affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Today, the school is also one of our top online colleges. Students who want to apply for admission to Rhodes may do so any time after the end of his/her junior year in high school using the Common Application. Admission to Rhodes is competitive, but no application fee is required for first-year or transfer students. Like many online colleges and universities in this ranking, the school is a member of the Associated Colleges of the South. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has also accredited it. A member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the school endorses the principles in the Association’s Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission.

Fast Facts

  • Free Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC

#2. Sewanee: The University of the South

Sewanee, TN  

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $51,146
Graduate Tuition: $18,000

Sewanee: The University of the South - logo

Sewanee: The University of the South is a private Episcopal liberal arts college. It is also one of the top online colleges and universities in our ranking. The main campus is Gothic in design. Inside, it offers well-rounded academics and robust student life programs. It is owned by 28 southern dioceses of the Episcopal Church. Plus, its School of Theology is an official seminary of the church. Applying to Sewanee is simple, easy, and straightforward. There is no application fee for the online school. At Sewanee, admission counselors provide individual attention to each student during the admission process. The school meets the needs of all admitted first-year students who qualify for financial aid. And it has been test-optional for the past ten years. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools fully accredits Sewanee.

Fast Facts

  • Free Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#1. Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL

Website

Undergraduate Tuition: $40,232
Graduate Tuition: $33,000

 Elmhurst University  - logo

Elmhurst University is a private liberal arts college online. It maintains a tradition of service-oriented learning and an affiliation with the United Church of Christ. Applying to Elmhurst University is easy, and there’s no application fee for the online school. Admissions advisors are ready to support students throughout their journey. First-year, transfer, or adult students can begin by completing the application form to the school’s online bachelor’s degree program. The same goes for graduate and ELSA applications. Once students begin their application, they can return to it anytime using the login credentials they receive via email.  Applicants applying or completing applications after Nov. 2 are considered for rolling admissions. Elmhurst University is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to offer online and on-campus degrees. This includes bachelor’s degree programs.

Fast Facts

  • Free Application
  • Format: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

More About 20 Most Affordable Online Colleges with No Application Fee

Online Colleges No Application Fee

What does no application fee mean?

Simply put, a college application fee waiver allows students to apply to college without paying an application fee. Traditionally, most college applications require a fee. While the exact amount varies from one school to the other, the fees range between $40-$60. The more expensive schools have fees of around $80 to $90. Once the payment is made, the college or university starts reviewing applications and making admissions decisions. 

The cost of a college education continues to increase and, thus, gets a lot of attention. College applications are expensive, and so are tuition and other costs that start adding up the moment when a student is accepted into a program (e.g., undergraduate programs and graduate programs). 

Even before that, there are the costs of standardized tests, college visits, and travel costs for those visits. Students spend around $50 for the SAT or ACT and another $12 to have their standardized test scores sent to the colleges. They can also expect to incur the cost of an on-campus visit, depending upon the distance from the school, the cost of driving across town, or the cost of a round-trip plane ticket and hotel room.

One way to reduce these costs of college applications is to obtain application fee waivers. The other is to research and find online schools that do not charge any application fee. Many colleges will waive the application fee if students apply online. Other schools with application fees will allow students to apply for an application fee waiver; the process differs between schools and often depends on the student’s financial situation and any available financial aid programs.

Who can apply?

Admissions eligibility depends on whether you’re applying to undergraduate programs or graduate programs and at what level. For example, students with a GED or a high school diploma can apply for online bachelor’s programs. Some students also opt for associate degrees after high school before pursuing bachelor’s programs. Those who hold accredited bachelor’s degrees can apply for master’s degrees, while graduates go on to pursue doctoral programs. 

How many colleges can students apply to?

The number of colleges students should apply to depends on various factors, such as financial ability and the type of decision status a student is applying to. However, if students want to improve their chances, they can do thorough research and apply to colleges with no application fee. 

Students can also apply during the early decision process and get accepted; that way, they may only have to apply to one school for their online bachelor’s degree or other credentials. Students who apply to their preferred schools but want a backup should apply to at least three other schools. Those who obtain a fee waiver can afford to apply to more schools. If they do not get fee waivers, though, applying to 10 schools may cost them over $500 in application fees.

Is an online application different from a traditional application?

Online colleges accept similar applications as traditional schools. In fact, there is not much difference between online colleges and traditional on-campus college programs when it comes to admissions. The application process will be more detailed in some programs than others, though. Some colleges have rigorous admissions criteria, while others accept almost all applicants, regardless of whether those programs hold classes online or in person.

High school graduates will likely encounter some common requirements when applying to any college, either online or traditional. They will have to fill out an application that includes some personal and program-related information. Applications may require students to submit official test scores from a standardized test like SAT or ACT scores. They may also have to write an essay or provide letters of recommendation. Some cheap online colleges without application fees require students to provide a transcript from high school or their most recent GPA. 

Many colleges hold open admissions with no application fee for their online programs. It is not the same rigorous admissions process, so the field is open to a wider range of students. While an online college degree program may be easier to get into than a traditional one, the application process varies widely by school and degree program. For instance, there may be a different application for online bachelor’s programs versus online master’s degree programs.

Nontraditional students and other online students often pursue an online education because a traditional college education may conflict with their other responsibilities. Whether their past academic performance has been lackluster or they have had to forego school and go into the workforce, open admissions provide a way for them to renew their life goals and get accepted into an accredited degree program. These accredited online colleges, without fees, accept prospective students and applicants for their online programs who hold a high school diploma or GED, regardless of past grades. Online courses give students more independence than traditional courses, but they still need to put in a lot of effort to do well, tackle and prepare for challenging coursework. 

What documents are needed for the undergraduate applications? 

Online Colleges No Application Fee

The year leading up to your first semester of college is exciting and stressful, with lots to do when it comes to applications. Although the requirements for an application vary widely between schools, there are certain common things for prospective students to keep in mind, especially those considering an online bachelor’s degree program.

Application Form: The application form for bachelor’s degrees can vary in length, depending on the school. Most schools accept online applications as well as traditionally delivered forms via mail. Along with the application form (online or traditional), students also need to send the rest of the documents requested. They may also use the online Common Application, which more than 300 schools currently accept. The advantage of using the Common Application form is that they don’t have to complete a separate application for every college, though some may require a short supplemental application. However, students must remember that the application deadlines vary by school. They should plan ahead and ensure they have plenty of time to assemble the application package, complete it, and submit it before the deadline. Typically, the more competitive the admissions process, the earlier the deadline for that college. 

Test Scores: When taking the tests, one will have the option to list the prospective schools they want to receive their scores. Students should schedule the test session that allows sufficient time for the school to receive their scores before the application deadline. It takes time for the test to be processed and scores to be sent to the schools. Some universities accept both SAT and ACT scores, but others accept only one or the other.

Letters of Recommendation: The number of letters of recommendation needed and who should prepare them vary by school. Typically, students will need to submit a minimum of two letters written by their high school guidance counselor or teachers. Students are advised to put in their requests early so that there is adequate time for teachers or counselors to prepare a strong recommendation letter.

Transcript: High school transcripts are an important part of the application packet. Some accredited online colleges allow students to pick up a sealed envelope containing their transcript and mail it to the colleges. At the same time, some will only accept transcripts sent directly to them from the high school. In the former case, students should ensure that the seal is not broken and that they do not open it. 

Personal Essay: The personal essay is often considered the most challenging piece of the application process by many students. Most colleges ask students to prepare a personal essay or statement for their application package. The topic and length vary by school, but most ask for 300 to 500 words, although some universities may ask for longer essays. Students should make sure that they prepare their essays ahead of time and get them proofread by teachers or counselors to ensure a top-notch draft.

What documents are needed for the graduate applications? 

Online Colleges No Application Fee

For graduate programs, most accredited online colleges require similar documents during the formal application process, though there are some differences between a master’s program and a Ph.D. program. 

Grad school application form: A generic college application can be as short as two pages or more, depending on the school. Most schools offering master’s degrees will accept an online college application and the traditional paper format via mail. Students should start the process early on to avoid errors and inaccuracies in the application. Information required for graduate degree programs typically includes academic records, a résumé, personal details, the name of the chosen program, test scores, and any transferrable college credit.

Academic transcripts: Depending on the graduate degree college, applicants should include originals or certified copies of transcripts of all post-secondary education courses they have taken. Some schools may allow students to submit copies during the online college application process but require the originals at the time of registration.

References or supporting letters: Choosing someone to write a reference can be a challenging process, and the requirements of the individual program must be considered. Most graduate schools require two to three letters of support or reference during the applications. Multiple schools require only academic references, others only professional, but must accept a mix of both. These are extremely important, particularly for the more competitive graduate degree programs. 

Statement of purpose or personal statement: The personal statement is critical to the college application for a graduate degree program. Depending on the college, students must submit an essay or statement of purpose that reflects their reasons for studying the chosen graduate program. These must include their personal and professional experience relevant to the chosen program, their hope to benefit from it, and their future plans with the degree. 

Graduate school test scores: Many grad schools and master’s degree programs will only process the application upon receipt of the official test results, while others may decide based on the college application as a whole. Most graduate schools, though not all, now require one or more of the standardized, internationally recognized tests such as GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Some may make a conditional offer subject to certain conditions related to your IELTS or GRE score as part of the application process. 

What are the benefits of online degrees/ online colleges? 

Online Colleges No Application Fee

For distance learners, there are many advantages associated with online learning. Students taking online courses develop valuable professional competencies while getting an opportunity to complete their education while balancing other responsibilities in life.

Related:

The Benefits of Taking Online Classes for Credit

Flexible Schedule: With online classes, students can navigate their work and family obligations while studying. The 24-hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week availability makes online classes ideal for many students desiring to pursue a college degree. They can complete assignments at their own pace, in the evening or on weekends. However, online students must be focused, organized, and disciplined to meet assignment deadlines while handling other obligations. Studying at home for online degrees provides an optimal level of comfort and convenience for busy professionals.

Affordable Tuition: Most online programs are more affordable than on-campus programs. Costs can be myriad, and they can pile up when you consider all the items to keep in mind for school. These may include:

  • Gas
  • Textbooks and school supplies
  • Student services fees
  • Costs for parking on some campuses
  • Using public transportation
  • Childcare costs for students who are parents

Distance learners avoid traveling to campus as assignments and lectures are distributed electronically on their personal computers as they take courses from home to pursue online degrees. 

With online programs, students can use e-textbooks instead of expensive hardcover textbooks, reducing costs considerably. All other class materials are available online, including library resources, so students never have to leave home to complete coursework. Another factor that contributes to cost savings is the zero application fee policy that multiple schools have for their online degrees. 

Enhanced Professional Skills: Online classes require students to use several technical skills to communicate with their instructors and fellow students. They have to use email, online forums, and chat services regularly. In addition, they often participate in classroom bulletin boards and blogs. These not only promote lifelong learning skills but are also considered very marketable in the workplace. 

Virtual Networking: Networking is an important and very crucial skill to master for work. Online classes attract students from diverse backgrounds and regions. Attending classes online enables students to connect with other people they may not have otherwise met, resulting in interesting class dialogues. Students consistently get chances to learn from each other and develop lasting professional networking connections. Sometimes there are campus visits involved, depending on the school. These class settings inspire online students to form study groups and schedule outings at a common meeting point or local venues. 

CVO Staff

Related Resources

Sources

This concludes our ranking of how to apply for online colleges without the fee.