
As students seek academic growth during summer, free online courses offer a valuable opportunity for high school credit.
Top Free Online Summer Courses
- 1. Coursera – Offers courses from top universities on various subjects.
- 2. edX – Provides access to high-quality courses, including AP-level classes.
- 3. FutureLearn – Features diverse courses, emphasizing interactive learning.
- 4. Khan Academy – Offers comprehensive resources for math and science.
- 5. Alison – Provides a range of free courses across different domains.
- 6. OpenCourseWare (OCW) – Allows access to university course materials, particularly from MIT.
- 7. Class Central – Aggregates free courses from various educational platforms.
Q&A
1. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in these courses?
Most free online courses have no formal prerequisites, though some advanced courses may recommend prior knowledge in specific subjects.
2. Can these courses be taken for high school credit?
Yes, many courses can be used for credit if the school recognizes the provider. Students should check with their school administration.
3. How do students obtain proof of completion?
Students typically receive a certificate upon completing the course. They can present this to their school for credit evaluation.
4. Are there any costs associated with these free courses?
While courses are free, some platforms may charge for certificates or additional materials.
5. How can students stay motivated during a self-paced course?
Setting a schedule, creating study groups, and utilizing reminder tools can help maintain motivation.
Statistics on Online Course Enrollments
Platform | Courses Offered | Average Enrollment |
---|---|---|
Coursera | 3,900+ | 35 million |
edX | 2,500+ | 20 million |
FutureLearn | 1,200+ | 12 million |
Khan Academy | Thousands | 18 million |
Alison | 1,000+ | 11 million |
OpenCourseWare | 2,450+ | 2 million |
Mind Map of Considerations for High School Online Courses
- Course Selection
- Interest
- Required Skills
- Provider
- Reputation
- Course Reviews
- Credit Acceptance
- School Policies
- Certification
- Time Management
- Scheduling
- Setting Goals


