Scholarship and Grant Opportunities for Online Learners in the U.S.

As the cost of higher education continues to climb, many Americans are turning to ​online education​ as a more affordable and flexible alternative. But even within online learning, the price of tuition, materials, and certification fees can add up—especially for those balancing family or work responsibilities.

The good news? ​There are more scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available for online learners in 2025 than ever before.​​ Whether you're pursuing a short certificate or a full online degree, this guide will walk you through your options and how to qualify.

Why Online Students Now Qualify for More Aid

Traditionally, many scholarships were limited to students attending in-person colleges. But that has changed significantly. Thanks to advances in digital infrastructure and the normalization of online degrees, ​most financial aid providers now accept fully online learners, especially if the institution is accredited.

In fact, the U.S. Department of Education confirms that ​Title IV federal aid is available for eligible students enrolled in accredited online programs—including community colleges, four-year universities, and even certain career training platforms.

Top Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

1. Federal Pell Grant

• ​Who it's for: Low-income undergraduate students
• ​Award amount: Up to ​​$7,395​ per year (2025 figures)
• ​Requirements: FAFSA application, financial need
• ​Where to apply: studentaid.gov

Yes—online students enrolled at accredited institutions are eligible​ for Pell Grants.

2. Online Learning-Specific Scholarships

• ​Get Educated Online College Scholarship​

  • $1,000 twice per year
  • Open to U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited online programs

• ​eLearners Military Spouse Scholarship​

  • $1,000–$2,000 for military spouses pursuing online degrees

• ​Study.com Working Student Scholarship​

  • $500–$1,000 for part-time workers in online programs

These are great options if you're not attending a traditional campus.

3. University-Specific Grants and Tuition Discounts

Many online colleges offer ​exclusive financial aid packages​ for their virtual learners. Examples:

• ​Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)​​ – automatic scholarships for online bachelor's degree students
• ​Arizona State University Online​ – performance-based tuition discounts
• ​Purdue Global​ – up to 55% savings for active-duty military and family members

Check your institution's financial aid page or contact the admissions office directly.

4. State-Based Grants

Each state has its own education funding office, and some extend support to online learners, especially those in workforce development programs.

Example:

• ​Cal Grant​ (California) – can be used at eligible online colleges
• ​New York State TAP​ – available for distance learners at approved schools

Tip: Visit your state's higher education website or nassgaps.org for local aid info.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement and Education Benefits

Over ​60% of U.S. companies​ offer some form of tuition reimbursement, and this increasingly includes ​online education programs. Companies known for their generous policies include:

• ​Amazon​ – covers 100% of tuition for select online career training
• ​Walmart​ – offers debt-free degrees through its Live Better U platform
• ​Target​ – covers online education at 40+ partner schools

Even smaller employers may offer reimbursement if the program is job-related. Don't hesitate to ask your HR department about available benefits.

Platforms Offering Free or Subsidized Certificates

Several big tech companies and platforms now provide ​low-cost or even free​ professional certificate programs for in-demand jobs:

For those who can't pay upfront, many of these programs allow you to ​apply for aid directly in the platform interface.​​

How to Apply for Scholarships as an Online Learner

​Step 1: Complete the FAFSA​
Start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Even for non-traditional learners, this opens access to:

• Pell Grants
• Work-study opportunities
• Federal student loans (if needed)

​Step 2: Search for Private Scholarships​
Use trusted platforms like:

• Fastweb
• Scholarships.com
• Bold.org
• Cappex

Filter your search for online, adult, or part-time student scholarships.

​Step 3: Apply Early and Often​

• Some scholarships have ​rolling deadlines, while others close early each year (often in March or April).
• Keep a spreadsheet to track applications and deadlines.
• Write strong, personal essays that show why online learning works for your goals.

Common Myths About Online Student Aid

​Myth 1: "Online students don't qualify for real aid."​​
Not true—most aid is based on income, school accreditation, and enrollment status, not whether you attend in person.

​Myth 2: "You need to be full-time to get aid."​​
Many grants and scholarships are available to part-time students as well—especially for adults juggling work and family.

​Myth 3: "Only young students get scholarships."​​
There are entire scholarships and aid programs specifically for:

• Students over 30 or 40
• Parents returning to school
• Career changers

Final Tips to Maximize Your Aid

• ​Always apply for FAFSA, even if you think you won't qualify.
• ​Look for stackable aid​ (scholarships + grants + employer benefits).
• ​Ask your school's financial aid office​ for help navigating options.
• ​Don't ignore small scholarships—they add up.

Final Thoughts

Online education has opened new doors for millions of Americans—but ​funding should never be a barrier.​​ With the right strategy, scholarships and grants can reduce or even eliminate the cost of your online studies.

Whether you're a single parent, a military spouse, a career switcher, or a first-time college student, ​there are real financial aid options out there for you.​​ Start with FAFSA, explore your platform's opportunities, and apply consistently to get the support you deserve.