Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment – Start Anytime in 2025
Discover the top 15 online colleges with open enrollment and rolling admissions in 2025, including Western Governors University, Purdue Global, and National University. Start your degree anytime with self-paced and accelerated options designed for working adults, parents, and military personnel. Enroll today with minimal barriers and no semester delays.
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Are you eager to begin your college journey without waiting for a new semester? This guide highlights the top 15 online colleges offering open enrollment and rolling admissions in 2025. These accredited institutions provide flexible, accessible education for working adults, parents, and military personnel.
What Is Open Enrollment (and Why It Matters)
Open enrollment allows students to apply and start courses anytime, bypassing traditional semester schedules. Rolling admissions involve reviewing applications as received, accepting students until programs are full. This flexibility suits non-traditional students balancing work or family.
Featured Online Colleges
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Best Online Colleges You Can Start Today (2025 Rankings)
Below are 15 top online colleges with open enrollment and rolling admissions. Each offers flexible start dates, accredited programs, and diverse degree options. The rankings consider online enrollment, tuition, and program variety.
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Tuition: $4,005 per six-month term (undergraduate)
- Formats: Fully online, competency-based
- Why We Like It: WGU’s competency-based model lets students progress at their own pace.
- Flexible Start Options: Monthly start dates on the first of each month
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
2. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
- Location: Adelphi, MD
- Tuition: $7,488 (in-state undergraduate)
- Formats: Online and hybrid
- Why We Like It: UMGC offers military-friendly programs with low tuition.
- Flexible Start Options: Multiple start dates yearly, including July and August
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
3. Purdue Global
- Location: West Lafayette, IN
- Tuition: $10,080 (undergraduate)
- Formats: 100% online; some programs require hands-on experience
- Why We Like It: Purdue Global provides a three-week no-cost trial.
- Flexible Start Options: Monthly start dates
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
4. National University
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Tuition: $13,320 per year
- Formats: Online and hybrid
- Why We Like It: National University offers over 75 programs with monthly starts.
- Flexible Start Options: Courses begin every month
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
5. Bellevue University
- Location: Bellevue, NE
- Tuition: $8,040 per year (undergraduate)
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: Bellevue offers small class sizes and no Friday classes.
- Flexible Start Options: Quarterly start dates
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
6. Wilmington University
- Location: New Castle, DE
- Tuition: $11,970 per year (undergraduate)
- Formats: Online and hybrid
- Why We Like It: Wilmington offers accelerated 8-week courses.
- Flexible Start Options: Classes start every 8 weeks
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
7. Full Sail University
- Location: Winter Park, FL
- Tuition: $26,417 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: Full Sail specializes in creative and technical programs.
- Flexible Start Options: Monthly start dates
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
8. Colorado Christian University
- Location: Lakewood, CO
- Tuition: $39,266 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: CCU provides quick admissions for adult learners.
- Flexible Start Options: Start at any adult class
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
9. Thomas Edison State University (TESU)
- Location: Trenton, NJ
- Tuition: $8,598 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: TESU’s generous transfer credit policy benefits non-traditional students.
- Flexible Start Options: Rolling admissions with multiple start dates
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
10. Franklin University
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Tuition: $9,577 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: Franklin offers affordable tuition with 10-week terms.
- Flexible Start Options: Terms start every 10 weeks
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
11. Capella University
- Location: Minneapolis, MN
- Tuition: $14,436 per year (graduate)
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: Capella provides personalized support for online learners.
- Flexible Start Options: Multiple start dates yearly
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
12. University of Phoenix
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Tuition: $9,552 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: University of Phoenix caters to working adults.
- Flexible Start Options: Multiple start dates yearly
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
13. American Public University System (APUS)
- Location: Charles Town, WV
- Tuition: $8,400 per year
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: APUS is military-friendly with affordable tuition.
- Flexible Start Options: Multiple start dates yearly
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
14. Charter Oak State College
- Location: New Britain, CT
- Tuition: $7,656 per year (in-state)
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: Charter Oak focuses on adult learners and transfer credits.
- Flexible Start Options: Six start dates per year
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
15. University of North Dakota
- Location: Grand Forks, ND
- Tuition: $9,237 per year (in-state)
- Formats: Fully online
- Why We Like It: UND offers self-paced courses and diverse programs.
- Flexible Start Options: Multiple start dates yearly
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Quickview: Online Colleges You Can Start Today
| College | Start Frequency | Self-Paced | In-State Tuition | Asynchronous | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University | Monthly | Yes | $4,005/term | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Multiple/year | No | $7,488 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Purdue Global | Monthly | Yes | $10,080 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| National University | Monthly | No | $13,320 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Bellevue University | Quarterly | Yes | $8,040 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Wilmington University | Every 8 weeks | Yes | $11,970 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Full Sail University | Monthly | No | $26,417 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Colorado Christian University | Varies | Yes | $39,266 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Thomas Edison State University | Rolling | Yes | $8,598 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Franklin University | Every 10 weeks | Yes | $9,577 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Capella University | Multiple/year | Yes | $14,436 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| University of Phoenix | Multiple/year | No | $9,552 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| American Public University System | Multiple/year | Yes | $8,400 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| Charter Oak State College | 6/year | Yes | $7,656 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
| University of North Dakota | Multiple/year | Yes | $9,237 | Yes | Open Enrollment |
Online Colleges With Weekly Start Dates
While true weekly start dates for online degree programs are uncommon, several institutions offer very frequent start dates, allowing students to begin their studies with minimal delay. These colleges provide rolling admissions and multiple start dates throughout the year, often with terms as short as 4 to 8 weeks. Below are some examples of online colleges with particularly flexible start options:
- National University: Offers 4-week courses that start every month, providing numerous opportunities to begin your degree National University.
- University of Arizona Global Campus: Features 5-week undergraduate terms and 6-week graduate terms, with regular start dates UAGC.
- Colorado Christian University: Courses are structured in 5-week blocks, enabling students to start at the beginning of each block CCU.
- Western Governors University (WGU): Although start dates are monthly, WGU's competency-based education allows students to progress at their own pace once enrolled WGU.
- Bellevue University: With rolling admissions, students can start in various terms throughout the year Bellevue.
- Wilmington University: Classes begin every 8 weeks, offering multiple entry points annually Wilmington.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Provides 8-week terms, allowing for frequent start dates SNHU.
These colleges are dedicated to providing accessible education with flexible start options, making it easier for students to pursue their degrees on their own schedule. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on start dates, prospective students should contact the admissions offices directly.
Benefits of Rolling Start Colleges
Rolling start colleges offer unmatched flexibility for students. You can begin your education without waiting for a traditional semester. This is ideal for those eager to advance their careers quickly.
FAFSA deadlines align with rolling admissions, offering financial aid flexibility. Many schools accept federal aid, scholarships, or military discounts. This makes education more affordable for diverse learners.
Open enrollment removes barriers like GPA or test score requirements. Most schools only require a high school diploma or GED. This accessibility benefits non-traditional students, including working adults and parents.
Courses often last 4-8 weeks, allowing faster degree completion. Accelerated formats suit motivated learners aiming for quick progress. Self-paced options further enhance flexibility for busy schedules.
Are Online Colleges With Open Enrollment Legit?
Online colleges with open enrollment are legitimate if accredited by recognized bodies. Regional or national accreditation ensures quality and employer recognition. Check accreditation via the U.S. Department of Education.
Degrees from accredited online colleges are equivalent to traditional degrees. Your diploma won’t indicate “online,” ensuring equal credibility. Always verify a school’s accreditation before enrolling.
How to Enroll in Online College Today
Enrolling in an online college is simple and fast. Follow these steps to start your journey:
- Choose Your School: Select a college based on program, tuition, and start dates.
- Submit a Short Application: Most applications take under 30 minutes.
- Start Classes Within Weeks: Many schools offer start dates within weeks.
Enrollment Checklist:
- Research programs and tuition costs
- Verify accreditation status
- Complete the online application
- Submit transcripts or FAFSA forms
- Register for your first course
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I start online college today?
To start online college today, choose an accredited school with open enrollment like WGU or Purdue Global, complete their short online application (often under 30 minutes), and register for courses with upcoming start dates, typically within weeks. Many schools offer monthly or frequent starts, and some, like National University, have 4-week terms. Check the college’s admissions page for the next available start date.
What is the cheapest online college with open enrollment?
Western Governors University offers tuition at $4,005 per six-month term. Thomas Edison State University and Charter Oak State College are also affordable. Compare tuition to find the best fit.
Can I enroll in college online anytime?
Schools like WGU and Purdue Global offer monthly start dates. Rolling admissions allow enrollment throughout the year. Check each school’s academic calendar for specific dates.
Are online colleges with rolling admissions faster?
Rolling admissions enable immediate starts, avoiding semester delays. Accelerated courses, often 4-8 weeks, speed up completion. Self-paced programs further reduce time to graduation.
What are self-paced programs?
Self-paced programs let you progress at your own speed. Schools like WGU and Bellevue University offer competency-based learning. You complete courses as you master the material.
Can I transfer credits into a start-anytime program?
Many open-enrollment colleges accept transfer credits. TESU allows credits from college coursework, military training, or certifications. Check each school’s transfer policy for details.
Conclusion
Online colleges with open enrollment and rolling admissions offer unparalleled flexibility. They cater to diverse learners, from working professionals to military veterans. Start your education today with these accredited, accessible programs.
References
- U.S. Department of Education Accreditation Database
- Western Governors University Admissions
- University of Maryland Global Campus
- AdmissionsPurdue Global Admissions
- National University Admissions
- Bellevue University Admissions
- Wilmington University Admissions
- Colorado Christian University Admissions
- Thomas Edison State University Admissions
- Franklin University Admissions
- Capella University Admissions
- University of Phoenix Admissions
- American Public University System Admissions
- Charter Oak State College Admissions
- University of North Dakota Admissions
- University of Arizona Global Campus Admissions
