Start Online College Today. Open Enrollment Online Colleges Ranked for 2026
Quick take — 2026: Open enrollment online colleges (also called open admissions) typically admit anyone with a high school diploma or GED, without using GPA or test scores as gatekeepers for admission. If your goal is to start online college today or soon, look for programs with rolling admission, frequent term starts, or self-paced formats—then confirm accreditation in DAPIP and line up FAFSA and transcripts. The ranked schools below are EDsmart’s open-enrollment shortlist from federal data.
Open enrollment online colleges make room for students who want a straightforward path into college-level coursework. Policies vary by school: most still ask for transcripts, placement steps, or program-level requirements later in the process, and competitive majors can cap seats even when the institution is broadly accessible. Online delivery adds schedule flexibility—important if you are balancing work or family and do not want “start in September” to be your only option.
Accreditation is the quality signal employers and transfer offices care about. Use CHEA’s list of recognized accreditors and verify any school in the U.S. Department of Education’s DAPIP database before you enroll. Our ranking cards pull context from the College Scorecard and NCES College Navigator so you can compare outcomes alongside admissions philosophy.
Online programs that might interest you
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Table of contents
- Key takeaways
- How EDsmart ranked these schools
- Benefits of open enrollment
- Flexible start dates and rolling admission
- How open enrollment works in practice
- Synchronous vs asynchronous online classes
- Undergraduate vs graduate admissions
- Top 10 open enrollment online colleges (2026)
- Common questions (FAQ)
- Sources
Find your school in 5 minutes or less
Many schools offer rolling admissions or multiple start dates each year.
Key takeaways
- Open enrollment online colleges usually require a diploma or GED for admission; many skip SAT/ACT for entry, but programs can add their own prerequisites.
- To start online college today (or on the next available cycle), prioritize schools that publish rolling admission or frequent start dates, then complete orientation and any placement steps on their timeline.
- Verify institutional accreditation in DAPIP; check programmatic accreditation separately for nursing, education, or other licensed fields.
- Use the ranked cards below for average net price and outcomes in federal data—those figures approximate affordability after aid for typical students, not every reader’s sticker price. Confirm your program’s per-credit tuition and fees on the school’s site.
How EDsmart ranked these open enrollment online colleges
We start from accredited institutions and apply EDsmart’s composite ranking formula using statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), with supplemental outcomes from the College Scorecard where noted on each card. Net price on the cards is an undergraduate, aid-adjusted signal from federal data—useful for comparing schools, while your actual bill depends on program, pace, and aid. The list answers “which open-enrollment-friendly schools score strongest on our blended measure of affordability, student success, and earnings,” not “which school is easiest to get into in every major.” Before you enroll, verify the institution in DAPIP (search the school name and confirm an active recognized accreditor). Always read the school’s official admissions page for the program you want.
Benefits of open enrollment
Open enrollment programs are often more accessible than highly selective colleges: less emphasis on past test scores for admission, and more room for students to prove themselves in coursework. That can reduce application anxiety and widen who gets a seat in the first year—especially when paired with online sections that fit around work.
Tradeoffs exist: larger incoming cohorts or less selective peers can mean wider variation in classroom preparation. Degrees from accredited online programs carry the same institutional credential as on-campus awards from the same school; what changes is format and your schedule—not the diploma’s name on the certificate when the institution is legitimate and accredited.
Flexible start dates and rolling admission
Search intent for start online college today usually means “don’t make me wait a year for one start date.” In practice, you will still complete an application, orientation, and often transcript submission—but many online programs run monthly or every-few-weeks starts, competency-based pacing, or rolling admission so you are not locked to a single fall cohort. If you need the next available term, filter for explicit start calendars and ask whether your target program is capped.
For open enrollment colleges online more broadly, expect flexible entry to sit alongside normal compliance steps: photo ID, FAFSA for aid, and official transcripts for transfer credit. Starting mid-academic-year can still qualify for aid if you meet deadlines; check the financial aid office for prorated or term-specific packaging.
How open enrollment works in practice
Open or open-access admission usually refers to who gets a seat at the institution level. After you are admitted, the college still runs you through enrollment steps. The list below is typical; your school may add steps or change the order.
- Application: submit the online application, pay an application fee if the school charges one, and upload or mail proof of high school completion or GED as required.
- Placement: many colleges use placement tests or diagnostics for math or writing; others place you from prior college work or GPA. Placement can affect which courses you take first.
- Transcripts: official transcripts from high school or prior colleges are usually required to award transfer credit, even when general admission is nonselective.
- Program rules: majors with licensure, clinicals, or limited seats (for example nursing or education) can add prerequisites, GPA floors, or caps after general admission.
- Financial aid: file the FAFSA and any school-specific forms by the deadlines tied to your start term; aid packaging can differ for mid-year starts.
Community colleges and broad-access four-year schools often emphasize open doors for local transfer and workforce pathways; four-year universities may use open or inclusive policies for online cohorts while still managing capacity. If you are transferring, ask how each school evaluates credits and whether your courses apply to your intended major.
Synchronous vs asynchronous online classes
Synchronous online courses meet at scheduled times through video or live sessions—closer to a fixed bell schedule, which can help if you want real-time discussion. Asynchronous courses release readings, lectures, and assignments on a weekly or module schedule, with deadlines but without required live class hours; they fit shift work or caregiving better but demand strong self-management.
Many programs blend both. When a page says “100% online,” confirm whether you must attend occasional intensives, labs, or proctored exams in person or at set times—those details affect whether you can truly start soon and stay on your calendar.
Undergraduate vs graduate admissions
Undergraduate open enrollment usually centers on high school completion or GED and broad access to first-year or transfer-level study. Graduate programs often use separate admissions: portfolios, work experience, prerequisite coursework, or test scores may apply even when the same university uses inclusive policies for bachelor’s admission. Always open the graduate program’s page and catalog, not only the institution’s general “open admissions” language.
Other admissions types describe timing or strategy, not openness: regular decision follows a deadline; early action and early decision are deadline-based plans with different commitment rules; rolling admission reviews applications as they arrive. A school can combine open enrollment with rolling dates—see the FAQ below for a quick comparison to selective timelines.
Top 10 open enrollment online colleges (2026)
Below are the ten schools in our open-admissions ranking for 2026, shown in order with expandable program detail. Data fields on each card come from NCES and College Scorecard as described in the bullets above.
Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion
Location: Marion, IN
Admission Rate: 87%
Average SAT Score: 1120
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,097
Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion offers a variety of online programs and degrees across different academic disciplines. Here are some examples of what they offer:
Degrees:
- Associate's Degrees:
- General Studies
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Bachelor's Degrees:
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary Education
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Master's Degrees:
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Christian Ministry
- Counseling
- Education
- Nursing (MSN)
- Organizational Leadership
Additional Programs:
- Certificates:
- Addiction Counseling
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Administration
- Human Resources
- Project Management
Key Features of IWU-Marion Online Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Online courses allow you to balance your education with work and family commitments.
- Quality Education: IWU-Marion offers the same high-quality education as their on-campus programs.
- Supportive Faculty: Experienced faculty members are available to guide and assist you throughout your studies.
- Christian Perspective: IWU-Marion integrates a Christian worldview into its curriculum.
To get more specific information about programs, admissions requirements, and financial aid options, you can visit the Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion website or contact their admissions office directly.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $41,692
In-state Tuition and Fees: $29,684
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $29,684
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $24,250
Median Earnings (10 years): $59,986
Parker University
Location: Dallas, TX
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 411
Parker University offers a variety of online programs and degrees in the healthcare and business fields. Here are some examples:
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Functional Nutrition: This program focuses on the science of nutrition and its impact on health and wellness.
- Master of Science in Strength and Human Performance: This program prepares students for careers in fitness, sports performance, and related fields.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Health Science: This program provides a broad foundation in healthcare, preparing students for a variety of careers in the field.
- Associate of Science in Health Science: This program offers a more focused degree for students interested in entering the healthcare workforce more quickly.
It's important to note that Parker University's online programs are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to balance their education with work and family commitments.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Parker University's online programs and degrees, we recommend visiting their official website or contacting their admissions office directly.
Programs Offered:
Parker University provides programs in the following areas:
Doctor of Chiropractic
Health Sciences
Business & Technology
The university hosts various events, including the "Parker Power Weekend" and "Health Profession For a Day," which offer insights and opportunities related to careers in chiropractic and the medical field.
Financial Aid:
Parker University offers numerous scholarships for its programs to help students achieve their academic goals without compromising their financial objectives.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Cost of Attendance: $31,277
In-state Tuition and Fees: $15,718
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $15,718
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $12,288
Median Earnings (10 years): $42,091
Northwest University
Location: Kirkland, WA
Admission Rate: 94%
Average SAT Score: 1198
Undergraduate Enrollment: 662
Northwest University offers a variety of online programs and degrees, including:
Undergraduate:
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership
- Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Associate in Arts
- Associate in Ministry Leadership
- Certificate in Ministry Leadership
Graduate:
- Master of Arts in Bible and Theology
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master of Arts in Community Economic Development
- Master of Arts in International Community Development
- Certificate in Community Economic Development
For more information, you can visit the Northwest University website: https://www.northwestu.edu/online/programs
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Average Cost of Attendance: $45,835
In-state Tuition and Fees: $35,000
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $35,000
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,891
Median Earnings (10 years): $54,914
Metropolitan State University
Location: Saint Paul, MN
Admission Rate: 82%
Average SAT Score: 1150
Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,152
Metropolitan State University offers a variety of online programs and degrees designed to accommodate busy adult learners. Here are some examples of the programs they offer:
Master's Degrees:
- Business Administration (MBA): This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices.
- Nonprofit Leadership and Management (MNLM): This degree focuses on developing leadership skills and knowledge to effectively manage nonprofit organizations.
- Public Administration (MPA): This program prepares students for careers in public service, equipping them with the skills to address complex public policy issues.
- Public and Nonprofit Administration (MPNA): This degree combines elements of public administration and nonprofit management, providing a broad understanding of both sectors.
- Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS): This program focuses on the technical and managerial aspects of information systems, preparing students for careers in IT.
Graduate Certificates:
- Database Administration: This certificate program provides specialized training in database design, implementation, and management.
- Design of User Experience: This program focuses on creating user-centered designs for digital products and services.
- Global Supply Chain Management: This certificate program covers the strategic and operational aspects of global supply chain management.
- Information Assurance and Information Technology Security: This program focuses on protecting information systems and data from cyber threats.
- Management Information Systems Generalist: This certificate provides a broad overview of management information systems, including systems analysis, design, and implementation.
- Project Management: This program focuses on the principles and practices of project management, including planning, execution, and control.
- Systems Analysis and Design: This certificate program covers the analysis, design, and implementation of information systems.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Nursing: This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse.
- Accounting: This program provides a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices.
- Urban Early Childhood Education: This program prepares students to teach young children in urban settings.
- Elementary Education: This program prepares students to teach elementary school students.
- Teaching English as a Second Language: This program prepares students to teach English to non-native speakers.
- Secondary Education: This program prepares students to teach specific subjects at the secondary level, such as English, mathematics, social studies, life sciences, and curriculum and pedagogy.
Important Considerations:
- Program Availability: Not all programs are offered fully online, and some may require a combination of online and in-person coursework.
- State Residency: Metropolitan State University's online programs are primarily available to residents of Minnesota and states with reciprocal agreements.
- Program Requirements: Specific program requirements, such as prerequisites and application deadlines, may vary.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Metropolitan State University's online programs and degrees, it we recommend you visit their official website or contact their admissions office.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $25,964
In-state Tuition and Fees: $9,684
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $9,684
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $17,100
Median Earnings (10 years): $64,705
Utah Valley University
Location: Orem, UT
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 26,961
Utah Valley University (UVU) offers a wide range of online programs and degrees, making it a great option for students seeking flexible and affordable higher education. Here are some examples of the programs they offer:
Associate Degrees:
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Computer Information Technology
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Health Information Management
- Liberal Arts
- Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's Degrees:
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Communication Studies
- Computer Information Technology
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education
- English
- Family and Consumer Sciences
- Health Science
- History
- Humanities
- Marketing
- Nursing
- Organizational Leadership
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Social Work
Master's Degrees:
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Counseling Psychology
- Educational Leadership
- Nursing
- Organizational Leadership
- Public Administration
Certificates:
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Computer Information Technology
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Health Information Management
- Organizational Leadership
UVU's online programs are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to balance their education with work and family commitments. They offer a variety of start dates throughout the year and provide 24/7 access to coursework and support services.
For more information on specific programs, admission requirements, and tuition costs, you can visit the UVU Online website or contact their admissions office.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Average Cost of Attendance: $14,855
In-state Tuition and Fees: $6,270
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $17,830
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $14,750
Median Earnings (10 years): $55,486
Wayne State College
Location: Wayne, NE
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,057
Wayne State College offers a variety of online programs and degrees, providing flexibility for students to pursue their education on their own schedule. Here are some examples of what they offer:
Bachelor's Degrees:
- Business Administration: This program offers specializations in Management, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.
- Criminal Justice: This degree prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and other criminal justice fields.
Master's Degrees:
- Curriculum and Instruction: This program offers specializations in various areas of education, such as Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Education.
- Human Performance and Wellness Management: This degree focuses on the management and promotion of health and wellness.
- Human Resource Management: This program prepares students for careers in human resources management.
Other Online Programs:
- Mortuary Science: This fully accredited program offers a flexible option for students pursuing a career in mortuary science.
- Social Work: This fully accredited program provides an online option for students interested in social work.
It's important to note that the specific online programs and degree offerings may change over time. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend visiting the Wayne State College website directly. You can find information about their online programs and admissions process on their website.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $20,752
In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,786
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $7,786
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $19,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $47,075
New Mexico Highlands University
Location: Las Vegas, NM
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,500
New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) offers a variety of online programs and degrees designed for working adults and those seeking flexible learning options. Here are some examples of the programs they offer:
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and can be completed in as little as 12 months. It offers concentrations in entrepreneurship and healthcare administration, as well as a general business option.
- Master of Arts in Criminology: This program provides an advanced understanding of criminological and social theories and examines trends in the fields of crime and social justice. It prepares graduates for careers in criminal justice, education, policing, law, government, and related fields.
- Master of Social Work (MSW): This program is designed for individuals seeking to become licensed social workers. It offers a variety of specializations and can be completed entirely online.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is designed for registered nurses (RNs) who wish to advance their careers. It can be completed in as little as 14 months and offers a flexible online format.
- Bachelor of Arts in General Business: This program provides a broad-based business education and can be completed entirely online. It is ideal for individuals who want to gain a solid foundation in business principles and practices.
Additional Online Programs:
NMHU offers a variety of other online programs and certificates, including:
- Health and Wellness Programs
- Education Programs
- Business Certificates
To learn more about specific programs, admission requirements, and the application process, you can visit the NMHU website or contact their admissions office.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $20,242
In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,140
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $11,988
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $11,399
Median Earnings (10 years): $45,937
Chadron State College
Location: Chadron, NE
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,690
Chadron State College offers a variety of online programs and degrees, including bachelor's degree completion programs, complete master's degrees, and individual elective and general studies courses.
Here are some examples of online programs offered by Chadron State College:
- Bachelor's Degree Completion Programs:
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary Education
- Health Science
- Psychology
- Master's Degrees:
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Educational Leadership
- School Counseling
- Special Education
Chadron State College also offers a variety of online continuing education courses for teachers, including courses in instructional technology, curriculum development, and educational leadership.
If you are interested in learning more about Chadron State College's online programs and degrees, please visit the following website:
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $22,842
In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,834
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $7,834
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $18,875
Median Earnings (10 years): $47,002
Granite State College
Location: Concord, NH
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,134
Granite State College (GSC) is now part of the University of New Hampshire as the UNH College of Professional Studies (CPS). This merger has expanded the online program offerings and enhanced the overall educational experience for students.
UNH College of Professional Studies (CPS) offers a variety of online degree programs, including:
- Associate Degrees:
- Associate of Arts (A.A.)
- Associate of Science (A.S.)
- Bachelor's Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Master's Degrees:
- Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
- Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.)
- Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (M.S.O.L.)
Specific examples of online programs offered by UNH CPS include:
- Business and Technology:
- Business Administration
- Cybersecurity
- Information Technology
- Health Care, Human Services, and Behavioral Sciences:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Human Services
- Liberal Arts, Communication, and General Education:
- English
- History
- Psychology
Key features of UNH CPS online programs:
- Flexible Learning: Online courses allow students to balance their education with work and personal commitments.
- Experienced Faculty: Instructors are experienced professionals who bring real-world knowledge to the classroom.
- Supportive Environment: Students have access to academic advisors, technical support, and other resources to help them succeed.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers.
- Affordable Tuition: UNH CPS offers competitive tuition rates.
For more information on specific programs, admission requirements, and financial aid options, please visit the UNH College of Professional Studies website: https://cps.unh.edu/online
Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
Average Cost of Attendance: $17,753
In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,806
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $9,150
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $15,585
Median Earnings (10 years): $51,254
Bellevue University
Location: Bellevue, NE
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 10,318
Located in the very heart of Nebraska, Bellevue University offers a wide range of online programs and degrees designed to accommodate busy adults and working professionals. They have been a leader in online education for over 25 years, offering flexible and convenient learning options.
Here are some examples of the programs and degrees they offer:
Bachelor's Degrees:
- Business: Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Resources, Marketing, and more.
- Computer Science and IT: Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Software Development.
- Education: Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education.
- Health Sciences: Health Information Management, Nursing.
- Liberal Arts: General Studies, Psychology.
Master's Degrees:
- Business: Business Administration (MBA), Cybersecurity, Human Resources, Project Management.
- Education: Educational Leadership.
- Health Sciences: Nursing.
Associate Degrees:
- Business: Business Administration, Accounting.
- General Studies: Associate of Arts, Associate of Science.
It's important to note that this is just a small sample of the many programs available. Bellevue University offers a variety of degree options to fit your specific needs and career goals.
To learn more about specific programs, admission requirements, and tuition costs, you can visit their website: https://www.bellevue.edu/degrees/ways-to-learn/online/
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $31,587
In-state Tuition and Fees: $8,790
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $8,790
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $61,289
Common questions about open enrollment online colleges
What does open enrollment mean for online colleges?
Open enrollment (or open admissions) generally means the college admits applicants who meet a baseline requirement—usually a high school diploma or GED—without using GPA or SAT/ACT scores to decide admission. Program-level rules, prerequisites, or seat caps can still apply after you are admitted.
Can you start online college today without waiting for fall?
Often, yes, if you choose a school with rolling admission or frequent start dates. You will still complete an application, orientation, and document steps on the school’s timeline; “today” usually means the next available term or cohort, not instant enrollment with no paperwork.
Do open enrollment colleges require the SAT or ACT?
Many open-enrollment institutions do not require standardized tests for general admission. Always confirm on the program page—some majors (for example nursing or education) add separate requirements.
Are online degrees from open enrollment colleges accredited?
They can be—accreditation belongs to the institution and sometimes the program, not the phrase “open enrollment.” Verify the school and, if needed, programmatic accreditation using DAPIP and CHEA resources linked in Sources below.
What is the difference between open enrollment and rolling admission?
Open enrollment describes who can be admitted (minimal barriers). Rolling admission describes when applications are reviewed—continuously rather than on one deadline. A school can offer both.
How does open enrollment compare to early action, early decision, or regular decision?
Open enrollment refers to broad access for applicants who meet baseline requirements such as a diploma or GED. Early action, early decision, and regular decision are deadline-based plans used by many selective colleges; they govern when you apply and sometimes whether the decision is binding—not whether the college is “open door.” A school with inclusive admission can still use rolling review instead of a single seasonal deadline.
How do community colleges fit open enrollment online?
Many community colleges use inclusive or open admission for residents and online students and often serve as an affordable first step or transfer path to a four-year degree. Credit transfer depends on the receiving institution’s policies and your program, not on the phrase “open enrollment” alone.
Can you transfer credits to an open enrollment online college?
Usually yes, when the receiving school accepts the courses toward your degree. General admission does not automatically mean every prior course applies to your major; submit official transcripts and ask for a degree audit or transfer evaluation early.
Do open enrollment colleges charge application fees?
Some do and some do not; fees vary by institution and sometimes by program level. Check the admissions page for the exact amount and any fee-waiver options.
Can you get financial aid if you start mid-year?
You may still qualify for federal aid if you submit the FAFSA and meet eligibility rules; award timing can depend on when you start and remaining term budgets. Ask the financial aid office about your specific start date.
Are graduate programs available at open enrollment colleges?
Some universities that are accessible at the undergraduate level also offer graduate programs, but graduate admissions are often more selective than open undergraduate policies. Requirements live in the graduate catalog and program page—prerequisites, portfolios, tests, or experience may apply even when the bachelor’s pathway is broadly accessible.
Sources
The following sources support this guide. Links open in a new tab where applicable.
- NCES College Navigator — enrollment, programs, institutional characteristics
- College Scorecard — net price, retention, graduation, earnings
- U.S. Department of Education — DAPIP — accreditation verification
- CHEA — recognized accrediting organizations
- StudentAid.gov — FAFSA
Popular online programs that might interest you
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
