Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Updated September 28, 2023
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College is stressful, but the application process doesn't have to be. In fact, colleges with open enrollment accept most applicants who graduated high school or passed the GED test — regardless of GPA and test scores.
Open enrollment — also known as open admissions — reduces the barriers to higher education and may offer more affordable tuition. If you're concerned about qualifying or simply want to bypass the competitive nature of college admissions, an online college with open enrollment may be for you.
Online Colleges Where You Can Start Anytime
Open enrollment allows you to gain admission to community colleges and some four-year colleges.
So what's the goal of open enrollment? It provides students without strong academic backgrounds greater access to education, broadening the pool of potential schools and programs available to you.
If this sounds like something you're interested in, then you've come to the right place. This guide provides information on how open enrollment works and ranks the best online colleges offering open enrollment.
Popular Bachelor's Degrees
What Is Open Enrollment?
Many online colleges use open enrollment in place of more selective or competitive processes. First implemented in the 1970s to reduce discrimination, open enrollment increases educational access by removing restrictive measures that might prohibit some learners from attending school. Open enrollment is most often offered by community colleges and other two-year institutions.
In practice, open enrollment typically means eliminating most admission criteria, such as standardized test scores and minimum GPA requirements. Most online colleges with open enrollment require only a high school diploma or GED certificate for admission.
Can Classes Start at Anytime of the Year?
You may be wondering: When do online classes start? Well, you're in luck —most online colleges offer flexible start dates. However, they do so within a clear scheduling structure. Some online schools use a traditional semester system, while others use quarter or trimester systems.
You can typically begin taking online courses at the start of any term. However, some schools may require you to start in the fall, while others offer monthly start dates. There are also self-paced online colleges where you can access and complete materials entirely on your own schedule.
Multiple Start Dates
Many online college courses have multiple start dates. Individual departments or programs usually set these dates at various times within the academic year. Accelerated courses often use multiple start dates to accommodate the varying needs of busy learners, but some traditional and self-paced classes also offer them.
Online colleges with weekly start dates are rare — usually only for certificate or vocational degrees. It's more common to see monthly or quarterly start dates.
Independent Study Course Schedules
Independent study courses let you explore your areas of interest through opportunities not formally offered in curriculum catalogs. The content of these courses is usually determined between you and your instructor.
This option works best if your needs are generally not met by traditional curriculum offerings. These courses usually begin at a convenient time for both you and your instructor.
What Are the Different Types of College Enrollment?
Colleges and universities may have a variety of enrollment policies in addition to open enrollment, including regular decision, rolling admissions, and early decision. The following sections outline these and other common enrollment policies.
Rolling Admissions
Schools that practice rolling admissions accept applications at any time throughout the year. Many online colleges use this option. Individual policies vary by school, but in most cases, you can apply anytime within a specified window and receive a decision within several weeks.
Open-Door Policy
Schools with open-door policies do not have strict admission requirements, such as standardized test scores and minimum GPAs. Some versions of the policy also eliminate reference requirements — you only need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Early Evaluation
Like early action, early evaluation may require you to submit your application by November. The school reviews your application in advance and lets you know if your chances for acceptance are good, fair, or poor. This option allows you to apply elsewhere if your chances of getting in seem low.
Early Action
While standard admission policies usually require you to submit application materials on or before Jan. 1, early action policies have earlier deadlines — usually sometime in October or November. You receive a decision much earlier than standard applicants, too. If you have a clear sense of where you want to attend, you may benefit most from this policy.
Early Decision
Early decision is similar to early action, but it requires a binding commitment from you to attend the institution. This means you cannot apply to other institutions. Many large, prestigious institutions, like those in the Ivy League, use this policy to attract and retain learners with a clear top choice.
Regular Decision
Most colleges and universities use regular decisions, including those with open enrollment. Online colleges that adhere to this policy place no restrictions on the number of other schools you can apply to. You can use this method to broaden your options and financial aid prospects. Most regular decision application deadlines are in January, with admission decisions following in late spring.
Deferred Admission
Deferred admission means you were accepted to the college but want to delay your enrollment for a year. You might choose this option if you want to travel, earn more money before going to college, or complete an internship. Also called a gap year, it gives you a break from the pressures of academics.
Popular Bachelor's Degrees
Online Colleges With Open Enrollment
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Amridge University
Montgomery, AL - 4 years
- Online
Amridge University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from 29 online offerings at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Career and academic service professionals located at the Montgomery, Alabama, campus assist online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events, such as virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program.
Prospective students can get more information about the online programs and application requirements on the school's website.
Amridge University at a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#2 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Bellevue University offers 88 programs for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels.
Online learners not located near the Bellevue, Nebraska campus can still access academic and career advising services. By taking advantage of academic advising and virtual career fairs, degree-seekers can receive assistance planning their academic and professional careers. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Upon successful program completion, graduates earn an accredited degree.
School representatives can provide additional information regarding application and program specifics.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,555
Online Bachelor's Programs: 59
Online Master's Programs: 27
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 98%
#3 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Cameron University
Lawton, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cameron University hosts 15 programs for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's online programming reflects the university's reputation for academic success.
From its main campus in Lawton, Oklahoma, Cameron offers both academic and career services to online learners. Degree-seekers can connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping students achieve scholastic and professional success. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs.
By contacting the school, students can receive more information regarding accredited online programs and the application process.
Cameron University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,020
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 32%
#4 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Chadron State College
Chadron, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students enrolled in Chadron State College can choose between 24 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The public college's proven track record in online education and reputation for academic quality make CSC a great choice for many online learners.
Upon enrollment, distance learners can connect virtually with academic and career services professionals located at the Chadron, Nebraska, campus. Students benefit from academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services, which can help degree-seekers achieve long-term success. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. CSC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
By contacting the school, prospective students can learn more about available online programs and how to apply.
Chadron State College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,801
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 49%
#5 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
City University of Seattle offers a high-quality online college experience, with 54 programs for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels.
All students, including distance learners, can connect with the academic and career services professionals employed at the school's Seattle, Washington, campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services can set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many students also prepare for future careers by participating in internships to gain hands-on experience. The school grants graduates an accredited degree upon successful program completion.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
City University of Seattle at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,704
Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Online Master's Programs: 18
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 98%
#6 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Colorado Christian University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar distance-learning programs. Offering 93 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, the private college provides prospective students with a range of academic options.
Online learners can benefit from academic advising and career services offered by professionals from the Lakewood, Colorado, campus. By working with academic advisors and attending virtual job fairs, degree-seekers can prepare for long-term success. Internship programs are also available to students, helping degree-seekers gain valuable field experience. CCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Colorado Christian University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,493
Online Bachelor's Programs: 44
Online Master's Programs: 19
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 98%
#7 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Columbia College
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Columbia College offers 35 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Columbia, Missouri, campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Upon program completion, graduates earn a degree with full accreditation.
Prospective students should contact the school for more information regarding available online programs and application instructions.
Columbia College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,536
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 59%
#8 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Excelsior University
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online
Excelsior University offers highly ranked programming for its proven track record in online education and its reputation for academic strength.
Upon enrolling, online learners can connect with academic advisors and career services professionals who are based out of the school's Albany, New York, campus. By connecting with academic advisors, degree-seekers can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Internships are also available to help students gain hands-on experience. Excelsior graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about the school's available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
#9 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Franklin University provides a quality online college experience for those seeking to further their career or education. Students can choose from 61 online degree opportunities offered at both graduate and undergraduate levels. With a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, the private school is a popular choice for distance learners.
Career and academic service professionals located at the Columbus, Ohio, campus are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers who connect with these advisors can access career-planning events, such as virtual job fairs. Students can also gain hands-on experience and prepare for future careers through internships.
Students can receive additional details regarding program availability and the application process by contacting the school.
Franklin University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,926
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 84%
#10 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Granite State College
Concord, NH - 4 years
- Online
Online degree-seekers should strongly consider Granite State College. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution, which offers a total of 59 online degree programs. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
To help assist online learners, academic and career service professionals based out of the Concord, New Hampshire, campus are available to provide guidance. By connecting with academic advisors and participating in virtual job fairs, degree-seekers can achieve scholastic and professional success. Many degree programs also include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. After completing the program, graduates receive an accredited degree.
Prospective students should contact the school for additional details regarding program availability and the application process.
Granite State College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,834
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Online Master's Programs: 5
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#11 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Hodges University
Fort Myers, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can receive a quality online college education by enrolling at Hodges University, which offers both remote degrees at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
After enrolling, online learners can connect with academic advisors and career services professionals based out of the Fort Myers, Florida, campus. Learners whoc onnect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience through internships. Program graduates are awarded an accredited degree upon completing all academic requirements.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Hodges University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 645
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 89%
#12 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, Indiana Wesleyan University is an attractive choice. The private institution offers 77 online programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Online learners can receive support by connecting with academic and career services professionals at the school's Marion, Indiana, campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services can help ensure long-term success. Many degree programs also include an internship, helping students gain hands-on experience in their field. Program graduates receive a degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Prospective students with additional questions are encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Indiana Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 10,121
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 27
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 93%
#13 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Los Angeles Pacific University
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online
Los Angeles Pacific University is a leader in online education. Enrollees at this private college can choose from 15 programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
The Los Angeles, California, campus employs academic and career service professionals who are available to assist online learners. By connecting with academic advisors and participating in virtual job fairs, degree-seekers can help ensure scholastic and professional success. Many degree programs also include an internship, which allows students to gain professional experience in their field. Upon graduating, students receive a fully accredited degree.
Additional information regarding application instructions and program availability can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Los Angeles Pacific University at a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 3
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#14 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Mid-America Christian University
Oklahoma City, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mid-America Christian University offers a high-quality education for distance learners. The private institution provides 32 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and the school has a proven track record of facilitating academic success through online coursework.
Online learners can benefit from a supportive team of academic and career services professionals based at the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, campus. Degree-seekers can connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs to help achieve scholastic and professional success. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. Upon graduation, students receive a fully accredited degree.
For more information about online degree options and how to apply, contact the school directly.
Mid-America Christian University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,389
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 80%
#15 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Montana State University Billings
Billings, MT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Offering a total of 30 online undergraduate and graduate programs, Montana State University Billings provides a high-quality online college experience. The school's online programming reflects its reputation for academic success, helping distance learners further their education and career.
The school's main campus in Billings, Montana, provides academic and career services, which are available to online learners. Students who connect with advisors can access career-planning events, such as virtual job fairs. In addition, students can take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Montana State University Billings at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,626
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 33%
#16 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Northwest University
Kirkland, WA - 4 years
- Online
Offering a total of 23 online degree programs, Northwest University is a strong option for online degree-seekers. This private institution provides both undergraduate and graduate programs.
The academic and career advisors located at the Kirkland, Washington, campus are also available to online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs can help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school also facilitates internship opportunities, allowing students to gain professional experience. After successfully completing the program, graduates receive a fully accredited degree.
Prospective students with any questions about available online programs and how to apply are encouraged to contact the school.
Northwest University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 721
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#17 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
Ottawa University is a leader in online education, offering 32 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The private institution has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those far from the Ottawa, Kansas, campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare students for success after graduation. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through OU's internship program. Graduates are awarded a degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Students can ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 25
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#18 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Park University
Parkville, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Park University provides one of the best online college experiences for distance learners, offering 66 online degree options at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at the private institution due to the school's reputation for academic quality.
Career and academic service professionals employed at the Parkville, Missouri, campus are available to assist online learners. Career services programs, such as academic advising and virtual job fairs, can help degree-seekers achieve their academic and professional goals. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience.
Students can contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Park University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,184
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 69%
#19 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online
Degree-seekers looking for a quality online college program should consider Parker University. Remote students can choose from 28 online programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs reflect the private school's reputation for strong academics within the online course offerings.
All learners, including those online, can connect with academic and career services professionals based out of the Dallas, Texas, campus. These career services programs, which may include academic advising and virtual job fairs, help degree-seekers achieve their professional and academic goals. The school's internship program gives students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Upon program completion, graduates receive a fully accredited degree.
For more information regarding how to apply and online program availability, students can contact the school directly.
Parker University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,225
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
#20 Best Online Colleges With Open Enrollment [Start Anytime]
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Prospective students interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Purdue University Global. The public institution offers 99 programs for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Along with its robust course options, the school boasts a track record of facilitating academic success through online coursework.
Academic and career services professionals employed at the school's main campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, are available to online learners. Programs, such as academic advising and virtual job fairs, help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Graduates earn an accredited degree upon completion.
Degree-seekers can contact the school for further information about the application process and specifics of online programs.
Purdue University Global at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 43,927
Online Bachelor's Programs: 33
Online Master's Programs: 26
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 99%
What's the Difference Between Online Courses and Correspondence Courses?
Both online and correspondence courses let you pursue your educational goals without attending in-person classes.
Online Courses
- May require active online class participation with peers and the instructor
- Take online exams on your own or require a proctor's supervision
- Receive incremental instruction, similar to an in-person class
Correspondence Courses
- Self-paced, independent learning with little interaction between you and the teacher
- Teachers may grade assignments and offer feedback on projects
- Course materials sent via email or an online portal
What's the Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Courses?
Synchronous classes occur in real-time, usually via video conferencing and live-streaming lectures. Asynchronous courses are more flexible, letting you listen to recorded lectures and study at your own pace.
Synchronous Courses
- Requires scheduled online live attendance, much like an in-person class
- May work collaboratively with fellow students outside of scheduled classes
- Good choice for students that excel in a structured learning environment
Asynchronous Courses
- Self-paced learning through pre-recorded lectures and assigned reading materials
- Participate in discussion boards and schedule group work when convenient
- Ideal learning format for working students or those with busy schedules
Popular Bachelor's Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions About Open Online Enrollment
What four-year degree pays the most?
According to PayScale, graduates with a four-year degree in engineering or computer science earn the highest median salaries nationwide.
When should you enroll in college?
The right time to enroll in college depends on your needs and interests. Some students enroll immediately after high school graduation, while others prefer to gain professional experience before attending college.
When do online classes start?
Online classes start at different times, depending on the school. Some online colleges offer just one or two start dates per year, while others offer monthly or rolling start dates.
What are self-paced college courses?
Self-paced classes allow you to access and complete coursework at your own pace, offering maximum flexibility. These differ from asynchronous classes, which allow you to access course materials on your own schedule with set deadlines.
Are all community colleges open admission?
Many community colleges and two-year schools use some form of open enrollment, but not all. Some four-year institutions may also have open enrollment policies.
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