To become a nurse, for instance, it will be necessary to have a nursing degree, while someone looking to move up in the engineering world may find it useful to study physics or advanced mathematics. Focus on schools that are highly-rated for the programs you’re most interested in.

Not every program or specialization taught at a given school may be available online. Do some research to find out which schools offer the subjects you’re interested in. Avoid getting a degree from a for-profit university since they tend to be more focused on recruiting students than the actual academics. Major universities will likely have tougher entrance standards, which may be a speed bump for people who are going back to school or have limited college experience. A low-residency program might also be an option, if you have the ability to travel or commute periodically. These types of programs involve spending a certain number of hours on campus throughout the course of a semester for special lectures and events and completing the rest of your requirements via distance learning. [3] X Research source

Online universities are becoming more recognized by employers as the technology of education continues to improve. [5] X Research source Tuition and other expenses will often be much lower for these schools, making them a practical option for those with financial constraints.

Scammer have been known to set up phony schools or degree programs in an effort to separate students from their hard-earned money. [7] X Research source Attending an accredited university doesn’t guarantee more advantages later in life, but it does look better to employers and graduate schools.

Some factors to consider when choosing a school to attend online include accreditation, overall cost, the quality of instruction and the ability to transfer existing credits. Looking up testimonials from past students who have gotten their degrees from a given school can help you decide whether it would be worth the time and expense to enroll there. [9] X Research source

Online applications will usually be accompanied by a fee of $30-$60. [11] X Research source Make sure the information you provide on your application is complete and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

Recognized forms of ID might include a valid driver’s license, birth certificate, social security card or passport. International students will need to be able to show proof of citizenship in the country where they’ll be attending school. [13] X Research source

If you’ve applied to multiple schools, wait until you get all your results back before coming to a decision.

Make sure you get your tuition paid in full on time. If you don’t, you won’t be permitted to attend classes. Your tuition will be partially determined by whether you’re a part-time or full-time student. Those with busy work schedules or financial restrictions may find it more manageable to work toward their degrees on a part-time basis. [16] X Research source

At first, you may have to fulfill a few prerequisites, like English composition or college algebra, but once these are out of the way you can proceed to the more specialized coursework you’ll need to complete your program. Email your academic adviser (one of these will likely be assigned to you as a new student) or the head of your program to find out what courses you’ll need to take, as well as the best order to take them in.

You’ll need to have (or have access to) a working computer with a fast internet connection in order to get your work done on time. Since you won’t have the benefit of working in a classroom setting, it can help to set aside a dedicated study space (like a coffee shop or a separate room in your home) to keep you from getting distracted.

Make sure you’re clear starting out about what will be required of you in order to graduate. Keep a planner or journal that you can use to record details about major projects, deadlines and holidays. [19] X Research source

Use your new qualifications to apply for jobs and other opportunities that were previously unattainable. [20] X Research source Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Continue accumulating advanced degrees to further distinguish yourself in your chosen field. [21] X Research source