How To Apply for College Online: Complete Guide

It is important to know how to apply for online college if you are interested in earning your undergraduate degree online.

Most online colleges have a high acceptance rate and allow you to enroll if you meet basic qualifications.

Apply for enrollment once you have decided on an accredited institution. You may also have to apply to your degree program.

Steps to Apply For Online College

There are three steps you can take to apply for online college. See a complete guide on how to apply for online college below.

Step 1. Understand Your Requirements

Each online college sets its own requirements for applying and enrolling in an undergraduate degree program.

At a minimum, online colleges require that you meet their qualifications for applying, complete an application, and speak with an enrollment advisor or counselor.

Qualifications usually include having a valid, government-issued identification card and transcripts for your high school diploma or an equivalent.

You will also need official transcripts if you have completed some college. You may have additional requirements depending on the college and your degree choice.

It is also important to understand your financial obligations and opportunities for cost savings when applying for online college.

Step 2. Submit Your College Application

Submit your application by visiting the official website of your college.

Many online colleges do not have application fees or grade point average requirements.

See colleges with no application fees or GPA requirements below:

• Southern New Hampshire University
• Strayer University
• University of Phoenix

You also do not have to submit standardized college admission or American college testing scores for many accredited online colleges.

Some colleges like Capella University and Grand Canyon University require that you have a certain grade point average or SAT or ACT score.

Step 3. Meet With an Admissions Advisor

An admissions advisor or counselor will help you get through the admissions process, including transferring previously earned college credits from a regionally accredited institution.

Transferring previously earned college credits can help you save time and money toward earning your degree. Some online colleges will also give credit for professional learning experiences.

Your interview or meeting with your admissions advisor will give you a chance to ask questions and learn about selecting classes and your financial aid options.

Other Steps to Apply For Online College

There may be other steps you have to take to apply for online college depending on the accredited institution and degree choice. Examples of other steps can include submitting:

• background checks
• medical records
• a personal essay
• letters of recommendation

Your admissions advisor will go over any additional requirements.

Understand Your Financial Obligations

The average cost of online undergraduate degree programs is $40,926 to $62,756 depending on the institution.

There are several opportunities to save money on tuition if you apply to an accredited online college or university.

Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify for federal and state grants. Also, submit applications for internal and external scholarships.

If you are employed, your employer may have a tuition reimbursement program to help cover tuition and advance your career.

Other tuition assistance options include:

• tuition discounts
• tuition waivers
• donations from family and friends

Frequently Asked Questions About Applying for College Online.

See answers to commonly asked questions about applying for online college below.

Does It Take a Long Time to Apply for Online College?

No, it does not take that long to apply for online college. It normally takes twenty to forty minutes depending on application requirements.

Do I Have to Live in the State of the Online College I am Applying For?

No, you do not have to live in the state of the online college you are applying for.

The benefit of online college is that you can live anywhere and still receive a high-quality education from an institution of your choice.

Why Do Some Online Colleges Have An Application Fee?

Application fees are up to the college or university. There are several reasons for requesting an application fee.

Some online colleges ask for a small application fee to cover administrative costs, transfer credit evaluations, transcript requests, and more.

Do I Have to Speak With An Admissions Advisor?

In most cases, you will have an interview or meeting with an admissions advisor or counselor to go over all aspects of the application and admissions process.

It is important to meet with an admissions advisor so there are no surprises, and you understand your enrollment.

Do I Need Money to Apply For Online College?

You do not necessarily need money to submit a college application. There are many online colleges that do not have fees associated with applying for enrollment.

You will need money to complete your degree. The application and enrollment process will help you understand your financial obligations for your degree.

Start Your Online College Application Today

Choose an affordable, accredited institution now that you know how to apply for online college and get ready for an educational journey that will lead to your entry-level career or career advancement.