Are There Tuition-Free Bachelor's Degrees Online?

Earning a bachelor’s degree online can feel expensive, especially if you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. The good news is that some students may qualify for tuition-free options — but “free” often comes with specific eligibility rules.

Across the country, public universities and select private institutions offer promise programs, need-based grants, and tuition models that can reduce costs to zero for eligible students. Below, we’ll go over how these programs work and what you need to know before applying.

Can You Earn a Free Bachelor’s Degree Online?

It is possible to earn a tuition-free bachelor’s degree online, but this usually done through financial aid or institutional programs rather than a universally free tuition model. Most “free” programs are income-based and require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.

In many cases, schools use what’s called a last-dollar model. This means federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant, are applied first, and the university covers any remaining tuition balance. However, students may still need to pay for fees, books, technology costs, or living expenses.

If you meet income requirements, enroll full time, and maintain academic progress, you may qualify for a tuition-free pathway. The key is understanding the difference between fully tuition-free and tuition-covered through financial aid — because that distinction can affect your total cost.

Financial Aid Opportunities for Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Even if a school does not advertise a tuition-free program, financial aid can significantly reduce — or even eliminate — your tuition costs. Many online bachelor’s students qualify for a combination of federal, state, and institutional support that lowers their out-of-pocket expenses.

Below, we’ll go over the most common types of financial aid that can make an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree far more affordable and potentially lead to free college.

Federal Financial Aid

Federal financial aid starts with completing the FAFSA. Eligible students may qualify for Pell Grants, which do not need to be repaid, as well as federal work-study or low-interest student loans.

For low-income students, the Pell Grant alone can cover a significant portion of tuition at public universities. Many promise programs also require FAFSA completion each year to determine eligibility.

State Financial Aid

Many states offer need-based grants or scholarship programs that help residents pay for public colleges. Some states operate “promise” or “guarantee” programs that cover remaining tuition after federal grants are applied.

Eligibility usually depends on income, residency, enrollment status, and academic progress. If you attend an in-state public university online, state aid can play a major role in reducing tuition to zero.

Institutional Grants And Scholarships

Colleges often provide their own need-based or merit-based grants. These awards can supplement federal and state aid and may be renewable if you meet GPA and enrollment requirements.

Some universities automatically consider students for institutional grants after reviewing FAFSA data. In certain cases, institutional aid is what closes the final gap and makes tuition fully covered.

Other Ways To Reduce Costs

Additional options may include employer tuition assistance, military Tuition Assistance, veterans benefits, and private scholarships. Many large employers offer education benefits that cover part or all of tuition at partner institutions.

Military-connected students can combine federal aid with Tuition Assistance or GI Bill benefits. Stacking multiple funding sources can sometimes create a tuition-free pathway, even if no single program covers everything.

Top Low-Cost Colleges With Online Bachelor’s Degrees

While no reputable college offers a completely free experience for all students, there are several colleges that qualify for state promise programs or offer their own promise programs or low tuition rates. There’s even one that doesn’t charge for tuition. We’ve highlighted some of the best low-cost colleges with online bachelor’s degrees below.

1. California State University, East Bay

California State University, East Bay is located in Hayward, California, and is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). As part of the California State University system, it offers a range of online and hybrid bachelor’s degree options designed for working adults and transfer students.

Eligible California residents may qualify for the Cal Grant, a state-funded program that can cover full tuition at public universities for students who meet income and academic requirements. When combined with federal Pell Grants and institutional aid, tuition may be fully covered, though students are typically responsible for campus fees, books, and other expenses.

2. Empire State University

Empire State University is based in Saratoga Springs, New York, and serves students across the state through flexible online programs. The university is especially focused on nontraditional learners, including working adults, transfer students, and those returning to complete unfinished degrees.

The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). New York residents may qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship, which can cover tuition at State University of New York (SUNY) institutions for families under certain income thresholds. Students must meet residency, credit completion, and enrollment requirements, and fees and living costs are not typically covered.

3. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs designed for working adults and transfer students. Through the NC Promise Tuition Plan, tuition is significantly reduced for in-state students, and even out-of-state tuition remains lower than many comparable public universities.

Located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, the university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). While NC Promise lowers tuition to a flat, reduced rate, students may further reduce costs by applying federal and state grants, which can sometimes cover the remaining tuition balance.

4. Kansas State University

Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers a wide selection of online bachelor’s degree programs and master’s degrees across business, technology, education, and the sciences. The university supports affordability initiatives aimed at expanding access for Kansas residents.

Based in Manhattan, Kansas, Kansas State University participates in the Land Grant Promise, which can cover tuition for eligible in-state students from families below certain income thresholds. Students must complete the FAFSA and meet enrollment and academic requirements. While tuition may be covered, fees, books, and other costs are typically not included.

5. Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University is located in Marshall, Minnesota, and is accredited by the HLC. The university offers several fully online bachelor’s degree programs designed for adult learners and transfer students seeking flexible scheduling.

Minnesota residents may qualify for the North Star Promise Scholarship, which can cover tuition and required fees at public universities for students who meet income guidelines. The program typically requires FAFSA completion and full-time enrollment. While tuition may be covered, students are usually responsible for books and personal expenses.

6. Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi is located in Corpus Christi, Texas, and offers a growing selection of online bachelor’s degree programs in areas such as business, health sciences, and liberal arts. The university serves both traditional and adult learners across the state.

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. Through the Islander Guarantee program, eligible Texas residents from families below certain income levels may receive institutional aid that covers tuition. Students must complete the FAFSA and meet academic requirements, and additional costs such as fees and housing are not typically included.

7. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University offers flexible, fully online Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree programs designed primarily for adult and nontraditional learners. The university is known for accepting transfer credits and prior learning, which can help students reduce both time to degree and overall cost.

The university is located in Trenton, New Jersey, and is accredited by the MSCHE. Eligible New Jersey residents may benefit from the Garden State Guarantee, a state-funded program that can cover tuition and certain fees for students who meet income and enrollment requirements. FAFSA completion is required, and other expenses may still apply.

8. University of Tennessee, Knoxville

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is accredited by the SACSCOC and offers a selection of online degree programs. These programs are designed to serve transfer students and working adults seeking a flexible pathway to graduation.

Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, the university participates in the UT Promise, which provides last-dollar scholarships to eligible Tennessee residents attending public institutions. Students must complete the FAFSA, enroll full time, and meet income and service requirements. While tuition may be covered, fees, books, and living expenses are generally not included.

9. University of the People

University of the People is based in Pasadena, California, and is accredited by the WSCUC. The university is nonprofit and offers fully online Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in areas such as business administration, computer science, and health science, as well as associate and graduate programs.

The school does not charge tuition. Instead, students pay a relatively low assessment fee per course to cover evaluation costs. Because there is no tuition, students cannot use federal financial aid, but institutional scholarships are available to help offset assessment fees for those who qualify.

10. University of Wisconsin–Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin Whitewater is located in Whitewater, Wisconsin, and offers online bachelor’s degree programs designed for working adults and transfer students. As part of the Universities of Wisconsin system, it serves residents across the state through flexible learning options.

The university is accredited by the HLC. Through the Wisconsin Tuition Promise, eligible in-state students from families below certain income levels may receive financial aid that covers tuition and required fees. Students must complete the FAFSA and meet enrollment criteria, while additional expenses such as books and housing are typically not included.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. Below are the key factors we consider when identifying affordable and tuition-covered options:

• Accreditation: We only include institutions accredited by recognized agencies to ensure your degree meets academic and employer standards.
• Cost structure: We examine whether tuition can be fully covered through promise programs, grants, or unique models such as assessment-based fees.
• Online format: We review whether programs are fully online and accessible to working adults, transfer students, and nontraditional learners.
• Financial aid access: We evaluate FAFSA eligibility, state grant availability, institutional scholarships, and whether aid can realistically reduce tuition to zero.
• Student support: We consider academic advising, transfer credit policies, and support services that help online students stay on track to graduation.

Who Qualifies for a Free Online Bachelor’s Degree?

Eligibility for a tuition-free online bachelor’s degree usually depends on financial need, residency, and enrollment status. Most promise programs and need-based grants set income thresholds, often based on adjusted gross income reported on your FAFSA.

Students typically must enroll full time, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and complete a certain number of credits each year. Some programs also require in-state residency or recent high school graduation, while others are open to adult learners.

In addition to need-based aid, merit-based scholarships can reduce tuition costs for students with strong academic records. Employer tuition assistance, military benefits, and workforce development grants may also help eligible students cover tuition, especially in high-demand fields.

Popular Bachelor’s Degrees That Can Be Free With Financial Aid

Many online bachelor’s programs can qualify for tuition coverage through federal, state, and institutional aid. While eligibility depends on your financial situation and residency, certain degree paths are commonly included in tuition-covered or promise-based programs. These widely offered programs are frequently covered through state promise initiatives and public university aid programs:

• Bachelor of Science in business administration
• Bachelor of Arts in psychology
• Bachelor of Science in computer science
• Bachelor of Science in nursing 
• Bachelor of Arts in communication
• Bachelor of Science in criminal justice
  

Some states provide additional funding for industries facing workforce shortages. If you pursue one of these fields, you may find expanded grant or workforce development opportunities for your college program:

• Education and teaching
• Health care and allied health
• Information technology
• Cybersecurity
• Artificial intelligence
• Data analytics
• Engineering-related fields

Choosing a high-demand major does not guarantee free tuition, but it can improve your chances of qualifying for additional state, institutional, or employer-sponsored funding.

Free vs. Low-Cost Online Bachelor’s Degrees

A free online bachelor’s degree usually means your tuition is fully covered through grants, scholarships, or institutional promise programs. In most cases, this coverage is income-based and requires you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. You may still be responsible for fees, books, and living expenses.

A low-cost degree, on the other hand, simply means tuition is priced affordably per credit. These programs may not eliminate tuition entirely, but they often provide flexible enrollment options and fewer eligibility restrictions. For some students, a predictably low tuition rate can be easier to manage than meeting the ongoing requirements of a tuition-covered program.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Free Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Most bachelor’s degrees take about four years of full-time study to complete. Online programs follow the same credit requirements as on-campus programs, typically around 120 credits.

Some online universities offer accelerated formats that allow you to take shorter terms or additional courses each year, which can reduce your time to graduation. However, many tuition promise and need-based aid programs require full-time enrollment and steady academic progress, which may limit how quickly you can move through the program.

If you enroll part time, your degree may take longer to complete, and certain aid programs may not apply. Before choosing an accelerated or flexible pathway, it is important to confirm how your enrollment status affects financial aid eligibility.

Career Outlook With a Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a bachelor’s degree can expand your access to a wider range of careers across business, health care, technology, education, and public service. Many professional roles require at least a four-year degree for entry-level consideration, and some leadership or specialized positions may require one for advancement.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a bachelor’s degree generally experience lower unemployment rates than those with only a high school diploma. While outcomes vary by major and industry, completing your degree can strengthen your long-term job stability and open the door to graduate study if you choose to continue your education.

Is a Free Online Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

A tuition-free online bachelor’s degree can be worth it if the program is accredited, recognized by employers, and aligned with your career goals. Reducing or eliminating tuition lowers financial risk and may allow you to graduate with little to no student loan debt.

However, “free” does not always mean no cost at all. You may still pay for fees, books, and living expenses, and some programs require full-time enrollment or service commitments. Taking time to compare free and low-cost college degrees can help you choose a path that fits both your budget and your long-term plans.

FAQs About Free Online Bachelor’s Degrees

If you’re considering a tuition-free undergraduate degree, you probably still have questions about eligibility, accreditation, and long-term value. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns students have before applying.

Are There Truly Free Online Bachelor’s Degrees?

Some colleges advertise tuition-free programs, but most “free” options rely on financial aid, scholarships, or income-based promise programs. In many cases, tuition is covered after federal and state grants are applied.

Students may still need to pay for fees, books, and other expenses. It is important to review the total cost of attendance, not just tuition, before enrolling.

Do I Need To Complete The FAFSA For Tuition-Free Programs?

Most tuition-covered programs require you to complete the FAFSA each year. Schools use FAFSA data to determine eligibility for federal grants, state aid, and institutional funding.

Even if you believe your income is too high, submitting the FAFSA can unlock additional scholarships or loan options. Many promise programs will not apply without it.

Can Out-Of-State Students Qualify For Free Tuition?

Most state promise programs are limited to in-state residents who meet income and enrollment requirements. Out-of-state students may not qualify for the same tuition coverage.

However, some institutions offer institutional scholarships or discounted online tuition rates that apply regardless of residency. Reviewing each school’s eligibility criteria carefully can help you understand your options.

Are Tuition-Free Online Degrees Accredited?

Many tuition-covered programs are offered by regionally accredited public universities. Accreditation ensures that your degree meets recognized academic standards and may be accepted by employers and graduate schools.

Always confirm that a school is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, as not all online learning institutions are. Taking this step helps protect the long-term value of your degree.

Will A Free Bachelor’s Degree Limit My Career Options?

In most cases, a tuition-free degree from an accredited institution follows the same academic standards as a traditional program. Employers typically focus on accreditation, skills, and experience rather than how much you paid in tuition.

Choosing a major aligned with in-demand industries can further strengthen your prospects. Researching program outcomes and career pathways can help you make a confident decision.

Explore Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees

Find your perfect bachelor’s degree by exploring the affordable online colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to specific schools to learn more about their tuition rates and financial aid options.