Best Online Classes Starting Soon [2023 Guide]

Ready to start your degree online? Students looking to begin online classes have a variety of factors to consider. Not only will you want to find a program that's right for you, but you'll also need to navigate through the application process and build your course schedule.

But don't fret — a little preparation can go a long way.

What Online College Classes Start Soon?

If you want a college education that you can complete from the comfort of your home, online classes can be a great way to earn a degree. Plus, more and more schools are offering online programs in a variety of majors.

Ready to get started on your online classes now? Wondering where to begin? Check out our page to find out everything you need, from admissions timelines to the type of classes — we've got you covered.

Online Degrees Starting Soon:

• Associate Programs
• Bachelor's Programs
• Master's Programs
• Doctorate Programs

Keep reading to learn more about:

• Types of College Admissions
• Regular Admissions vs. Rolling Admissions
• Common Start Dates
• Online Course Schedule
• Synchronous vs. Asynchronous vs. Self-Paced Classes

What Are the Different Types of College Admissions?

• Early Decision: For students with a top-choice college, early decision allows you to join a smaller applicant pool in exchange for applying early and making a commitment to attend if accepted.
• Early Action: While early action is an early application, unlike early decision, you don't need to commit to attending. Bonus: You can apply to multiple schools with early action programs at once.
• Regular Decision: Regular decision is the "default" admissions type. Regular decision applications don't require any commitment if accepted and typically have the largest applicant pool.

Regular Admissions vs. Rolling Admissions: What's the Difference?

In addition to early decision and early action, some schools offer rolling admissions. Unlike regular admissions, these are time sensitive and can get you a decision quickly.

When Do Online Colleges Start?

Online college degree start times can vary, along with application deadlines.

Many online college programs, like ASU Online through Arizona State University, have students start at different terms throughout the year, including the fall, spring, and summer. This makes their application deadlines very flexible.

Often, your starting term depends on when you apply. Be sure to check the start dates and application deadlines of any school you're interested in on its website before applying.

What to Expect in Your Online Course Schedule

You'll begin selecting courses and building your online course schedule once you've enrolled. Depending on whether you're studying as a full-time or part-time student, you must take a certain number of credit hours — which will be the hours you spend attending classes each week.

In addition, you'll need to figure out your own schedule by considering time spent studying, doing internships or work-study, and more.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous vs. Self-Paced Classes

• Synchronous Classes: Synchronous online classes are the closest to traditional in-person classes. Students engage with the instructors in real time using live-streamed video at specified class times.
• Asynchronous Classes: Asynchronous classes generally do not involve real-time instruction. You're given materials and deadlines, but you can work on your own schedule within the guidelines.
• Self-Paced Classes: Self-paced classes are a form of asynchronous learning. In self-paced classes, you have less structure and can determine for yourself how fast or slow you engage with the material.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Classes

How much time should you spend on your online classes a day?

How much time you spend each day on your online classes will depend on whether you're studying full time or part time. However, generally, full-time students should be spending 6-8 hours each weekday on classes and studying, while part-time students should spend about half that time.

When do online classes typically start?

Online classes typically follow either the traditional academic calendar or a term-by-term start date schedule. In the latter case, this means that classes welcome new students every term, usually three or four times a year.

Start dates are often reflected in the application deadlines. However, start dates and application guidelines can vary greatly from school to school, so be sure to do your research before applying to any school.

Are start dates flexible for online classes?

Start dates for online classes may or may not be flexible, depending on the online institution you're attending. Some schools offer flexible start dates, with students able to start classes at a few different points each year.

Within those guidelines, however, you'll likely need to start each specific class on the date chosen by your instructor. This can be especially true for classes with a lab-based component, like biology.