title: Best Online Course Platforms Under $105 for Students (2025)
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: Discover the best online course platforms under $105 specifically designed for students in 2025. This comprehensive guide provides in-depth reviews, comparisons, and insights to help you make an informed decision.
tags: [education]
image: ""
Best Online Course Platforms Under $105 for Students (2025)
In today’s digital learning landscape, students have a plethora of options to enhance their skills and knowledge through online courses. This buying guide explores the best online course platforms under $105, focusing on affordability, quality, and value for students. With insights into features, pricing, and overall usability, this guide will help you make an informed decision to boost your educational journey.
Overview
Online learning is becoming increasingly popular among students who seek flexibility and diverse learning options. In 2025, the market offers numerous platforms that cater to various learning needs, from coding and business skills to creative arts and personal development. This guide focuses on platforms that provide excellent content and user experience at an affordable price, all under $105.
Top Picks
| Name | Best For | Key Features | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Udemy | Diverse Course Selection | Extensive library, lifetime access, mobile app | $19.99 - $104.99 |
| Coursera | University-Level Courses | Certificates from top universities, financial aid, specializations | $39.00 - $99.00 |
| Skillshare | Creative Skills | Project-based learning, community feedback, free trial | $19.00/month or $99.00/year |
| edX | Professional Development | MicroMasters programs, verified certificates, university partnerships | Free to Audit, $50 - $99 for certificates |
| LinkedIn Learning | Business and Technology | Personalized course recommendations, offline access, certificates | $29.99/month or $239.88/year |
| Pluralsight | Tech Skills | Skill assessments, learning paths, offline access | $29.00/month or $299.00/year |
| Codecademy | Coding and Development | Interactive coding environment, projects, quizzes | $19.99/month or $239.88/year |
| Khan Academy | General Education | Free resources, personalized learning dashboard | Free |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Udemy
Best For: Diverse Course Selection
Key Features:
- Extensive library of over 155,000 courses
- Lifetime access to purchased courses
- Mobile app for learning on-the-go
Pros:
- Affordable courses with frequent discounts
- Wide variety of subjects
- User-generated content allows for unique insights
Cons:
- Quality can vary between courses
- Limited interaction with instructors
Current Price: $19.99 - $104.99
Udemy remains a top choice for students seeking a wide array of courses. With a user-friendly interface and frequent sales, students can often find valuable courses at a fraction of the original price.
2. Coursera
Best For: University-Level Courses
Key Features:
- Courses from leading universities (e.g., Stanford, Yale)
- Option to earn professional certificates
- Financial aid available for most courses
Pros:
- High-quality content from accredited institutions
- Flexible scheduling and deadlines
- Opportunity for networking with peers
Cons:
- Some courses can be expensive without financial aid
- Time commitment can be significant
Current Price: $39.00 - $99.00
Coursera offers students the chance to learn from top universities worldwide. The platform’s focus on professional development and certification makes it a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their resumes.
3. Skillshare
Best For: Creative Skills
Key Features:
- Focus on project-based learning
- Community feedback on projects
- Free trial available for new users
Pros:
- Engaging and interactive courses
- Emphasis on creativity and design
- Active community of learners
Cons:
- Subscription model can be costly if not utilized fully
- Limited courses on technical subjects
Current Price: $19.00/month or $99.00/year
Skillshare is ideal for students wanting to delve into creative fields. The platform’s project-based approach helps learners apply skills directly, making it a practical choice for aspiring artists and designers.
4. edX
Best For: Professional Development
Key Features:
- Offers MicroMasters programs
- Verified certificates available
- Courses from universities like MIT and Harvard
Pros:
- High-quality content and reputable institutions
- Flexible learning paths
- Free auditing option for most courses
Cons:
- Certificates can be expensive
- Limited interaction with instructors
Current Price: Free to Audit, $50 - $99 for certificates
edX stands out for its collaboration with prestigious universities, allowing students to access high-level courses without breaking the bank. The availability of free auditing makes it accessible for all learners.
5. LinkedIn Learning
Best For: Business and Technology
Key Features:
- Personalized course recommendations
- Offline access through mobile app
- Certificates that integrate with LinkedIn profiles
Pros:
- Comprehensive library focused on professional skills
- Strong corporate training options
- Easy integration with LinkedIn
Cons:
- Monthly subscription can add up if not used regularly
- Less emphasis on traditional academic subjects
Current Price: $29.99/month or $239.88/year
LinkedIn Learning is a solid choice for students looking to bolster their career skills. With a focus on business and technology, the platform caters to professionals and learners alike.
6. Pluralsight
Best For: Tech Skills
Key Features:
- Skill assessments to gauge knowledge
- Curated learning paths for structured learning
- Offline access for mobile users
Pros:
- Tailored learning experiences
- Extensive library on tech and software development
- Regularly updated with new content
Cons:
- Primarily focused on tech, limited other subjects
- Subscription-based model can be costly
Current Price: $29.00/month or $299.00/year
Pluralsight excels in providing resources for tech-oriented students, with courses ranging from coding to cybersecurity. Its skill assessment tools help learners identify their strengths and areas for improvement.
7. Codecademy
Best For: Coding and Development
Key Features:
- Interactive coding environment
- Hands-on projects and quizzes
- Community forums for support
Pros:
- Engaging and practical approach to coding
- Great for beginners
- Offers a wide range of programming languages
Cons:
- Pro version required for full access
- Limited advanced courses
Current Price: $19.99/month or $239.88/year
Codecademy is tailored for those looking to learn coding from the ground up. Its interactive approach makes it an excellent choice for students interested in programming and web development.
8. Khan Academy
Best For: General Education
Key Features:
- Completely free with no hidden costs
- Personalized learning dashboard
- Extensive library of subjects from K-12 to college level
Pros:
- No financial barriers to access quality education
- Strong focus on foundational concepts
- User-friendly platform
Cons:
- Limited advanced coursework
- Less focus on professional certification
Current Price: Free
Khan Academy is a non-profit educational platform that provides free resources for learners of all ages. Ideal for students looking for foundational knowledge, it covers a broad range of subjects.
How We Picked
In selecting the best online course platforms, we evaluated several criteria:
- Price: All platforms selected are under $105, ensuring affordability for students.
- Course Variety: We looked for platforms that offer a diverse range of subjects and courses.
- User Experience: The usability of the platform, including ease of navigation and accessibility features, was considered.
- Quality of Content: Platforms were assessed based on the quality of courses offered, including instructor qualifications and course ratings.
- Additional Features: We considered unique features such as community support, certification options, and mobile access.
Alternatives
While the platforms listed above are top contenders, there are several alternatives worth considering:
- Teachable: Great for entrepreneurs wanting to create and sell courses.
- FutureLearn: Offers short courses, especially in humanities and social sciences.
- Alison: Free courses with paid certificate options, focusing on workplace skills.
FAQs
1. What is the best online course platform for beginners?
Answer: Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare are excellent for beginners due to their diverse course offerings and user-friendly interfaces.
2. Can I earn a certificate from these platforms?
Answer: Yes, platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer certificates upon course completion that can enhance your resume.
3. Are there any free online course platforms?
Answer: Yes, Khan Academy and edX allow users to audit courses for free, while many platforms offer free trials or introductory courses.
4. How do these platforms support students financially?
Answer: Many platforms, such as Coursera, offer financial aid or scholarships to help students access paid courses.
5. Is it worth paying for online courses?
Answer: Paying for online courses can be worthwhile if you're seeking structured learning, expert instruction, and certification that can enhance job prospects.
6. Can I access courses on my mobile device?
Answer: Yes, most platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and LinkedIn Learning offer mobile apps for learning on-the-go.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right online course platform is crucial for enhancing your educational experience. The platforms reviewed in this guide offer exceptional value under $105, catering to a wide array of learning needs. Whether you are looking for a comprehensive course from a reputable university or a creative workshop, there's a platform that fits your budget and learning style. As you embark on your learning journey, consider your goals, interests, and the features that matter most to you. With the right tools and knowledge, you can achieve your educational aspirations in 2025 and beyond.