Are There Online Colleges That Pay You to Attend?

Earning a college degree is one of the best ways to snag a higher-paying job. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals that workers with bachelor's degrees earn hundreds more per week than those with high school diplomas.

Do you want to pursue a college degree but worry about costs? You might be surprised to learn that schools nationwide offer various assistance programs that greatly reduce the cost of attendance — in some cases, your tuition may be completely free.

While there are no colleges that pay you to attend, many schools have a number of financial aid programs to help students achieve very low-cost or even free tuition. Below, we'll highlight accredited online colleges that offer generous financial aid to help you earn the most affordable degree online. We'll also share tips on how to choose the right online college.

Can You Get Paid to Attend College?

It's important to note that there are no online colleges that directly pay students to attend. However, many institutions offer various forms of financial aid to help offset the costs of education. The following methods can be used to help you attend college for free or at a low cost:

• Federal aid: The first step is often to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is used to determine a student's eligibility for federal aid programs such as the Pell Grant, a federal grant program offering free money for college to those who demonstrate financial need. After submitting the FAFSA, financial aid offices determine aid program eligibility, pay tuition and fees, and distribute any leftover funds to students. Online colleges that accept FAFSA typically provide students with the best path to free or low-cost higher education.
• Scholarships: Many colleges offer scholarship programs to provide financial assistance to students who meet requirements related to financial need, academic merit, or other specific talents (such as student athletes). These funds may be used for tuition, books, room and board, and more. Some institutions offer full-ride scholarships, which cover costs for a student's entire college experience.
• Grants: Grants are a form of financial aid that does not need to be paid back, meaning students who receive these funds may be able to greatly reduce the cost of their college program.
• Tuition reimbursement programs: Working students can also look into companies that offer tuition reimbursement. Many companies value their employees' education and invest in their future by covering part of their college tuition.

Online Colleges That Offer Financial Aid

There are many schools across the United States that aim to increase access to higher education by offering on-campus and online students financial aid that can fully cover attendance costs. Learners receive grants, discounts, or other aid based on financial need or merit. Explore the list below to find a college or university that can help you earn your degree for free or at a greatly reduced cost.

1. The State University of New York System

The State University of New York (SUNY) system offers 64 campuses with over 700 online majors. To help students cover tuition fees, SUNY offers the Excelsior Scholarship Program.

This award covers tuition costs for SUNY students with an income of $125,000 or less. Eligibility requirements include living and working in New York State and completing at least 30 credit hours yearly.

2. The City University of New York System

Students who want to attend an NYC school can choose from over two dozen City University of New York (CUNY) campuses. Online programs are available at Baruch College, Lehman College, Queens College, and many more schools.

The Excelsior Scholarship Program at CUNY covers the cost of tuition for need-based students. To receive aid, learners must come from families earning $125,000 or less.

3. North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University offers the NDSU Tuition Award Program for residents in North Dakota and Minnesota. This last-dollar program covers the balance of base tuition and required fees. Waivers and other aid will be applied first.

To qualify, students must receive the Pell Grant and the in-state or reciprocity tuition rate. Students who want to earn an online undergraduate degree in business administration, nursing, marketing, or another subject could receive this award to cover costs.

4. Minnesota State University Moorhead

The North Star Promise at Minnesota State University Moorhead is a last-dollar program for students with an AGI of less than $80,000. This award covers the balance of regular tuition. Financial aid, stipends, and waivers will be applied first.

The school offers a range of online programs. Students seeking four-year degrees in marketing, nursing, biology, and more could finish their studies tuition-free.

5. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers over 185 online programs. Subjects include computer science, general studies, English, social work, and medicine.

Students with financial needs who want to earn their first bachelor's degree could qualify for the Missouri Land Grant. This award pays full tuition for up to 10 semesters. Applicants must live in Missouri and enroll at the school full-time.

6. University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee schools offer the UT Promise scholarship. This last-dollar program covers the remaining tuition and fees for an undergrad degree after all other financial aid is applied.

Applicants must live in Tennessee and have a household income of less than $75,000. They should also qualify for the Tennessee HOPE scholarship. Students enrolled in online programs at UT campuses might be able to cover tuition costs with this award.

7. Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University's Hilltopper Guarantee covers full tuition for select first-year freshmen. To qualify, students must live in Kentucky and receive assistance from the Pell Grant and KY College Access Program. They should also have a 3.0 high school GPA.

Students in online programs might qualify for this award. Some of the distance degrees at WKU include liberal arts, business, science, and health.

8. University of Texas at San Antonio

Middle- and low-income students seeking aid at the University of Texas at San Antonio can apply for the Bold Promise program. Applicants should be from Texas, with family incomes of $100,000 or less.

This program covers full tuition and required fees for incoming fall freshmen. Awardees can receive funds over four years (a value of $44,000). Students who enroll in online undergraduate programs could earn their degrees at no cost.

9. Universities of Wisconsin

Online students enrolled at any University of Wisconsin school could qualify for the Wisconsin Tuition Promise. This program helps underserved Wisconsin students earn a degree without paying tuition or fees.

Applicants should be in their first year as a freshman or transfer student. They should also come from a family with an AGI equal to or less than $55,000. Students must live in Wisconsin from start to finish and enroll full-time each academic year.

How We Rank Schools

Our team chose the schools in the rank list above using a thorough vetting process. Each college has met the following criteria for delivering high-quality education at a reduced cost for qualifying students:

• Accredited: The schools have been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We confirmed that schools in this list are respected, considering factors such as graduation rates, acceptance rates, and student outcomes.
• Affordable: The colleges above make online learning affordable by offering grants and scholarships to lower costs.

How To Choose an Affordable Online Degree

With many schools offering online programs, how can you decide which is best for you? Here are some tips to consider:

• Accreditation: Look for schools accredited by entities with U.S. Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognition.
• Program offerings: Research online schools that offer the major or minor you want to study.
• Degree levels: Confirm that schools offer fully online or hybrid courses at your chosen degree level.
• Low-cost tuition: Consider inexpensive online colleges with lower in-state and out-of-state rates.
• Financial assistance: Narrow your search to schools that accept federal financial aid and offer college scholarships and tuition discounts.
• Online support: Look for schools that provide online learning resources, such as coaching, tutoring, or library access.
• Fast degree completion: Find schools that accept transfer credits from community colleges, grant credits for prior learning, and offer online classes in shorter terms.

Discover Accredited Online Schools Today

Begin your journey toward a fulfilling career by exploring the degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges today to learn more about these programs and how they can help you achieve your goals.