Did you know there are colleges that pay you to attend online? I mean you can get paid to go to college online! Cool, right? We bring to you top 15 colleges that pay you to attend online in 2024.
If you’re a prospective student exploring ways to make your academic journey more financially accessible, then you’ll learn how to save money as a student while seeking ways to pursue your education.
In this ever-evolving digital age, educational institutions are now going the extra mile to attract top-notch students by offering financial incentives for online learning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of these generous colleges that pay you to attend online, as we explain how they work, and help you make an informed decision on whether this unique opportunity is right for you.
Before we begin, let’s imagine a world where your education not only sets you up for a successful career but also rewards you financially along the way. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, we’re here to tell you that this dream is rapidly becoming a reality for many students worldwide.
With the rise in popularity of online education, an increasing number of prestigious institutions are looking to stand out by incentivizing students to choose their online programs over traditional, on-campus experiences.
But wait, is it possible to get paid to go to college?
How Is it Possible to Get Paid to Go to College?
These colleges that pay you to attend online are well aware of the financial strains that education can impose on individuals and their families, and they’ve decided to take matters into their own hands by offering cash rewards, scholarships, and other financial benefits to students who enroll in their online programs. This not only eases the burden on students but also enables them to focus on what truly matters: their education and personal growth.
How Online Colleges That Pay Students to Enroll Afford It
Now, you might be wondering, “How do these colleges afford to pay their online students?” The answer lies in the cost savings that come with digital learning.
Online programs often require fewer resources, such as physical space and on-campus facilities, which allows institutions to allocate a portion of these savings to attract and retain a talented student body. This is a win-win situation for both the college and its students, as the institution gains a competitive edge and the students benefit from financial assistance.
Throughout this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the most notable colleges that pay students to attend online, breaking down the specifics of their offerings and how you can take advantage of these unique programs.
We’ll also provide you with expert tips and insights on navigating the application process, managing your online course load, and balancing your academic and personal life as an online student.
So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of online education that not only provide you with a top-tier academic experience but also reward you financially for your hard work and dedication. Are you ready to explore this untapped world of opportunity? Let’s dive in!
Top 15 Colleges That Pay You to Attend Online 2024
The following is a list of schools that pay you to attend online in 2024;
- The University of Cambridge
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Lewis University
- Columbia University
- Barclay College
- City College of San Francisco
- Athabasca University
- Curtis Institute of Music
- Lipscomb University
- Bethel University
- University of the People
- Central Christian College of the Bible
- Berea College
- EDX
So, let’s take it one after the other.
1. The University of Cambridge
As one of the colleges that pay you to attend online, the University of Cambridge offers complimentary courses via iTunes. Nestled in Cambridge, England, this esteemed institution collaborates with Apple to provide downloadable course materials from universities worldwide, offering you the freedom to learn at your leisure.
With over 300 audio and video files available for free download through the software, Cambridge University ensures you can access these resources on Mac or Windows computers as well as Apple and Android mobile devices.
Visit University of Cambridge Online Courses
2. Southern New Hampshire University
Located in Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private institution accredited by the Higher Education Institutions Committee. It also holds specific national accreditations in hospitality, health, education, and commerce.
As one of the schools that pay you to attend online, SNHU boasts an impressive range of online programs, making it a leading university in the US. The institution’s exceptional online curriculum is designed to prepare you for a successful career in the corporate world. To help students avoid debt, these programs come with financial assistance options.
3. Lewis University
Founded in 1932, Lewis University is a Catholic institution that caters to over 7,000 traditional and adult students. It offers relevant and practical degree programs that align with students’ career goals.
As one of the colleges that pay you to attend online, Lewis University provides multiple campus locations, online degree offerings, and various formats, all designed to accommodate a diverse student population. Online learners at Lewis University receive support from a dedicated coordinator throughout their academic journey.
Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply for FAFSA, and it’s worth noting that 97% of Lewis students receive some form of financial aid.
4. Columbia University
Situated in the bustling city of New York, United States, Columbia University is a prime example of colleges that pay you to attend online. This prestigious institution has expanded its digital learning offerings, providing a wide array of certifications, degrees, and non-degree programs for eager students.
Now, you have the opportunity to join a variety of online programs at Columbia University. These programs span various fields, including technology, social welfare, and health sciences, along with numerous other options for professional development. Embrace the convenience and accessibility of online learning while enjoying the financial incentives that come with it!
5. Barclay College
As a shining example of colleges that pay you to attend online, Barclay College is an institution dedicated to providing its students with a financially accessible education. Nestled in the quaint town of Haviland, Kansas, this college was established in 1917 as a Bible school. Although it originated as a free Christian college for Quakers, it has since opened its doors to students from all evangelical denominations, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. At its core, Barclay College aims to prepare its students for roles in Christian service and leadership.
Barclay College offers a range of undergraduate programs, such as bachelor’s degrees in worship arts, pastoral ministry, and youth ministry. Additionally, the college provides students with the opportunity to pursue various master’s degree programs, catering to diverse academic interests. What sets Barclay College apart is its commitment to making education more affordable. When accepted into the college, all domestic students are granted a generous $15,000 scholarship, courtesy of the school’s supporters.
These benefactors, who strongly believe that Christian students should have the opportunity to pursue a quality education without accumulating debt, have made it their mission to fund this full scholarship. The unwavering support of these sponsors has solidified Barclay College’s status as one of the colleges that pay you to attend online.
To learn more about this exceptional institution and the opportunities it offers, we invite you to visit their website and explore the possibilities that await at Barclay College.
6. City College of San Francisco
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, California, City College of San Francisco has gained a reputation for offering a unique opportunity for individuals seeking a free education. This exceptional program is made possible through a collaboration with the city of San Francisco itself.
This accredited two-year college boasts a vibrant campus, where students benefit from free tuition, granting them access to a plethora of resources, clubs, and academic offerings. City College students can not only engage in on-campus programs but also explore an array of free online college courses, making it one of the colleges that pay you to attend online!
Popular programs at this tuition-free institution include liberal arts, humanities, social sciences, biology, and physics. Credits earned by City College graduates often pave the way for their acceptance into desired undergraduate programs. With an active campus life and highly knowledgeable professors, students consistently sing the praises of this remarkable school.
7. Athabasca University: A Leader in Online Education
Situated in Athabasca, Alberta, Canada, Athabasca University (AU) stands as a pioneering institution in the realm of distance and online education. As one of the four comprehensive Alberta colleges, AU was the first Canadian university to focus exclusively on distance education when it was founded in 1970. Today, as one of the top schools on the list of the universities in Alberta for international students, the reputable institution is known as Canada’s Open University and is highly regarded among colleges that pay you to attend online.
Athabasca University offers over 70 online undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs, as well as more than 850 courses to choose from. Catering to the diverse needs of its students, AU provides tailored educational solutions for learners worldwide.
8. Curtis Institute of Music
Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Curtis Institute of Music is an incredibly competitive institution that provides free tuition for both undergraduate and graduate students. With a small student population of around 175 and an acceptance rate of just 4% annually, Curtis students receive a highly personalized and intensive musical education, emphasizing practical, hands-on experience.
Students at the Curtis Institute of Music enjoy over 200 projects across orchestras, opera, chamber music, and more, all under the guidance of world-class musicians and coaches. Free tuition covers annual costs of $42,320 for undergraduates and $52,548 for graduate students. While students must cover the cost of textbooks, the institute maintains its tuition-free status through merit-based scholarships and financial aid.
Curtis offers free online programs such as the Bachelor of Music and the Master of Opera Music, as well as a performance degree program and a Certificate of Professional Studies in Opera. Keep in mind that the highly competitive nature of these programs extends from the admissions process and continues throughout their duration. To secure free lessons, students must excel academically and in their performances.
9. Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University, one of the top schools that pay you to attend online, is a private Christian arts institution nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, United States. This university fosters the growth of students whose academic excellence and values mirror those of its community.
Offering online undergraduate and graduate programs designed to accommodate your professional needs and busy schedule, Lipscomb Online empowers you to develop and refine the skills necessary for success in your current and future careers.
10. Bethel University
Bethel University, a distinguished Christian liberal arts institution, is nestled in Arden Hills, Minnesota. Established in 1871 as a Baptist seminary, Bethel University is now part of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and is affiliated with Converge, formerly known as the General Baptist Conference.
With an enrollment of 5,600 students in undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs, Bethel University is among the colleges that pay you to attend online. They offer over 90 majors across more than 100 unique study areas, all accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and provide financial aid to support their students.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Online Ground Schools
11. University of the People
The University of the People stands out as one of the schools that pay you to attend online. Headquartered in Pasadena, California, this exceptional non-profit and tuition-free online university has been offering a financial incentive to attend since its inception in 2009.
To date, the University of the People has welcomed over 9,000 students from approximately 194 countries worldwide, making it a truly diverse and accessible educational experience.
Visit University of the People
12. Central Christian College of the Bible
Located in Moberly, Missouri, the Central Christian College of the Bible (CCCB) is a tuition-free Christian institution offering an annual full scholarship to 100 new or transfer students. This generous scholarship covers up to 17 credits per semester and is not limited to these students alone; the Central Christian College of the Bible also reserves the right to award scholarships to other deserving students.
To continue receiving the tuition-free benefit until the completion of their first university course or program, students must participate in the on-campus system. They are also required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, complete 90% of all Christian service hours each semester, and attend 80% of chapel services.
The Central Christian College of the Bible has a strong foundation in Christian faith, emphasizing beliefs such as prayer ministry, biblical authority, and discipleship. The duration of study varies depending on the program, with some students completing comprehensive courses in as little as 8 weeks, dedicating 15 to 20 hours per week.
13. Berea College: A Unique Opportunity
Nestled in the heart of Berea, Kentucky, USA, Berea College is a distinctive Christian institution that provides students with an educational experience built on the principles of peace, love, equality, and honesty. As one of the few colleges that pay you to attend online, Berea College covers almost all of the educational expenses, with students only needing to contribute $1,000 USD towards meals, accommodations, and taxes.
Recognized as one of the top U.S. schools that pay you to attend online, Berea College is committed to offering free tuition and even online bachelor’s degrees in various fields through its extensive learning program. With a diverse range of faculties such as African American Studies, Agriculture and Nature Studies, Biology, Business, Sociology, and Religion, students can expect a valuable education worth $100,000. Founded on the teachings and doctrines of Jesus Christ, Berea College is dedicated to supporting students with limited resources by providing financial aid options, including assistance from Kiplinger’s finances and others.
14. EdX: Quality Education from Renowned Institutions
Offering over 2,270 online programs across 30 different subject areas, EdX partners with esteemed institutions such as Harvard, the Rochester Institute of Technology, and other renowned universities worldwide. Headquartered at 141 Portland St., 9th Floor, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, EdX provides courses for various skill levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced), subjects, and even 16 different languages.
While some courses on EdX require payment, ranging from $49 to $600, most are available at the lower end of the price spectrum. EdX also offers MicroMasters, Professional Certificates, and XSeries programs, which, although not among the colleges that pay you to attend online, still provide a more affordable alternative to traditional education. The cost per course for these paid programs is generally lower, allowing students to access quality education without breaking the bank.
Edx offers courses and programs such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (MIT Sloan)
- FinTech (HarvardX)
- Accelerated Management (Yale)
- Cybersecurity (HarvardX)
If you’re looking for masters and bachelor’s degree programs, you’ll be glad to know that EDX also offers various courses such as:
- Data Science
- Nursing
- Education
- Analytics
- Engineering
- Psychology
- Law
- Speech
List Of Online Schools That Give Refund Checks
efund checks, also known as financial aid refunds, are the remaining funds that you receive after your college or university has applied your financial aid to cover your tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Here’s how it works: When you apply for financial aid, whether it’s through scholarships, grants, or loans, your college calculates the total amount of aid you’re eligible to receive. This aid is then applied to your account to cover the costs of tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses directly related to your education. Now, if the amount of financial aid you receive exceeds the cost of these expenses, the remaining funds are issued to you in the form of a refund check.
Why might this happen, you ask? Well, there could be several reasons. For instance, you might have received an additional scholarship or grant, or perhaps your living expenses are lower than what the school estimated. Whatever the case may be, the refund check is meant to help you cover other education-related costs, such as textbooks, supplies, transportation, or even personal expenses like rent or groceries.
Below is the list of 6 online schools or colleges that pay you to attend online by issuing financial aid refund checks, including processing time.
Some of the universities that give refund checks like Purdue which offers one of the best medical assistant certification programs in USA, are listed below:
- Capella University – 10 to 15 days
- Purdue University Global – end of each 10-week term
- Walden University – third week of each semester
- University of Phoenix – 14 days of posting
- Saint Leo University – 21 business days
Can you go to college completely online?
Online colleges allow students to attend lectures and complete assignments over the internet rather than attending in-person classes. Distance learning includes classes, homework assignments, tests, and group discussions.
Online Schools That Give Refund Checks And Laptops
Here is a list of the top six online colleges and universities that pay you to enroll by giving you refund checks and laptops.
- American National University
- St. John’s University
- Bethel University
- Chatham University
- University of Minnesota-Crookston
- Full Sail University
High Schools that Pay You to Attend
These schools have the most generous financial aid packages. They are ready to fully take care of your financial needs. You don’t have to take out a loan, regardless of your family’s income.
- College of the Ozarks
- Columbia University
- Davidson College
- Amherst College
- Berea College
- Grinnell College
- University of Chicago
- Harvard University
- Bowdoin College
- Brown University
- Colby College
- Vanderbilt University
- Washington and Lee University
- Yale University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Pomona College
- Princeton University
- University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill
- Swarthmore College
- University of Pennsylvania
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan—Ann Arbor
- Johns Hopkins
Schools With Payment Plans
Here are a few examples of schools that offer payment plans to their students:
- Arizona State University (ASU): ASU in one of the best online universities in USA. It offers a Tuition Installment Plan that allows students to spread their tuition payments over several months within a semester. Students can enroll in the plan online through their My ASU account.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): UCLA’s Payment Plan for Tuition and Fees allows students to pay their charges in three monthly installments for the Fall and Spring terms. Students can enroll in the plan through their BruinBill account.
- University of Florida (UF): UF’s Tuition Payment Plan enables students to divide their tuition and fees into smaller payments throughout the semester. Students can enroll in the payment plan through their ONE.UF account.
- New York University (NYU): NYU offers a Monthly Payment Plan that allows students to spread their tuition and fees over several monthly installments for the Fall and Spring terms. Students can enroll in the plan through their eSuite account.
- Texas A&M University: Texas A&M provides a Tuition and Fee Installment Plan that allows students to pay their tuition and fees in four equal installments throughout the semester. Students can enroll in the plan through their Howdy portal.
While these are just a few examples, many other colleges and universities also offer payment plans to help ease the financial burden of higher education. It’s important to note that each school’s payment plan may have different terms, conditions, and enrollment fees.
Also Read: Top MBA Colleges In USA – Top 10
Best Colleges With Easy Admissions
While the term “easy admissions” can be subjective, some colleges have higher acceptance rates and less competitive requirements, making the application process more accessible for many students. Here’s a list of some colleges with relatively easy admissions:
- University of Pikeville (Pikeville, KY): With an acceptance rate of around 100%, the University of Pikeville offers various undergraduate programs and a welcoming environment for students.
- Wayne State College (Wayne, NE): This public college has an acceptance rate of approximately 100% and offers more than 90 majors and pre-professional programs.
- Weber State University (Ogden, UT): With an acceptance rate of over 90%, Weber State University provides students with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.
- University of Texas at El Paso (El Paso, TX): The University of Texas at El Paso has an acceptance rate of around 100% and offers a diverse selection of academic programs in fields such as engineering, business, and health sciences.
- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (Indianapolis, IN): With an acceptance rate of about 81%, this urban public research university offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- California State University, Bakersfield (Bakersfield, CA): This public university has an acceptance rate of around 81% and offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, such as liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies.
Related: Top 10 Best Music Production Schools
Colleges That Pay Students to Attend Onlilne (Conclusion)
In conclusion, you can get paid to go to college. The exciting world of colleges that pay you to attend online is revolutionizing the educational landscape and making higher education more accessible than ever before.
As we’ve explored throughout this article, numerous institutions offer financial incentives, scholarships, and other benefits to students who choose their online programs. By embracing this innovative approach, these colleges are empowering students from all walks of life to chase their academic dreams without the burden of financial stress.
As you embark on your educational journey, it’s essential to keep an open mind and carefully consider the advantages of attending schools that pay you to attend online. Not only do these institutions provide quality education, but they also offer you the flexibility to study from anywhere and the opportunity to earn while you learn.
As a final piece of advice, remember to research each college thoroughly, taking into account factors such as the quality of their programs, the level of support offered to online students, and, of course, the financial incentives available. It’s crucial to find the right fit for your unique needs and goals.
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