title: Best Online Course Platforms Under $75 for Students (2025)
date: 2023-10-01
excerpt: Discover the best online course platforms for students in 2025 that offer quality education without breaking the bank. Our comprehensive guide highlights platforms under $75, ensuring you get great value for your learning needs.
tags: [education]
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Best Online Course Platforms Under $75 for Students (2025)

In the ever-evolving landscape of online education, students are presented with a multitude of options for expanding their knowledge and skills. The affordability of online courses has made it easier for learners to access high-quality educational content without straining their budgets. In this guide, we will explore the best online course platforms available for under $75 in 2025, providing insights into what makes each platform a valuable resource for students.

Overview

With the rise of digital platforms, students can now choose from a vast array of courses covering diverse subjects. This guide is tailored specifically for students seeking cost-effective solutions that won't compromise on quality. Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, enhance your resume, or explore a personal interest, the platforms listed here will provide a solid foundation for your educational journey.

Why Focus on Platforms Under $75?

Affordability is a crucial factor for students, many of whom juggle tuition, living expenses, and other financial commitments. Platforms under $75 not only make education accessible but also allow students to explore multiple subjects without significant financial risk.

Top Picks

Here’s a comparison table of the best online course platforms for students in 2025, all priced below $75:

In-Depth Reviews

1. Udemy

Best For: Diverse Course Selection
Current Price: $19.99 - $74.99

Overview:

Udemy is one of the most popular online course platforms, offering a massive library of courses covering virtually every subject imaginable. From programming to photography, Udemy has something for everyone.

Key Features:

• Lifetime Access: Once you purchase a course, you have lifetime access to the content.
• Frequent Discounts: Courses are often discounted, making it easy to find affordable options.
• User Reviews: A robust review system helps students choose quality courses.

Pros:

• Extensive variety of courses.
• Flexible pricing with frequent sales.
• User-friendly interface.

Cons:

• Quality can vary significantly between courses.
• No structured learning path.

2. Skillshare

Best For: Creative Skills
Current Price: $32.88 (annual)

Overview:

Skillshare specializes in creative courses, making it ideal for students interested in arts, design, and entrepreneurship. The platform encourages hands-on learning through projects.

Key Features:

• Project-Based Learning: Students engage in real projects, enhancing their learning experience.
• Community Feedback: Learners can share their work and receive feedback from peers and instructors.
• Free Trial: A free trial allows students to explore the platform before committing.

Pros:

• Vibrant community and networking opportunities.
• Focus on creative skills.
• Wide range of courses available.

Cons:

• Subscription-based model may not be ideal for all users.
• Limited courses in technical subjects.

3. Coursera

Best For: University-Level Courses
Current Price: $49 (per course)

Overview:

Coursera partners with leading universities to offer courses that often mirror university-level education. This platform is suitable for students seeking formal credentials or in-depth knowledge.

Key Features:

• Courses from Top Universities: Access to courses from institutions like Stanford and Yale.
• Financial Aid Available: Students can apply for financial aid to help cover course costs.
• Certificates of Completion: Can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Pros:

• High-quality content from reputable institutions.
• Option to audit courses for free.
• Recognized credentials.

Cons:

• Higher price point for some courses.
• May require more time commitment compared to other platforms.

4. LinkedIn Learning

Best For: Professional Development
Current Price: $29.99 (monthly)

Overview:

LinkedIn Learning focuses on business and professional skills, making it an excellent choice for students preparing to enter the job market.

Key Features:

• Personalized Recommendations: The platform suggests courses based on your career interests.
• Wide Range of Business Courses: From leadership to technical skills, there’s a course for every career goal.
• Integrates with LinkedIn: Completion certificates can be easily shared on LinkedIn profiles.

Pros:

• Professional networking opportunities.
• High-quality content tailored to career advancement.
• Flexible learning schedule.

Cons:

• Monthly subscription may not be ideal for short-term learners.
• Limited courses outside professional development.

5. edX

Best For: Academic Learning
Current Price: $50 (per course)

Overview:

edX is known for its high-quality courses from prestigious universities. It offers a range of subjects, particularly strong in science and technology.

Key Features:

• Free Auditing Option: Students can access course materials for free, paying only if they want a certificate.
• MicroMasters Programs: Offers advanced learning paths that can contribute toward a degree.
• Peer Interaction: Students can engage with peers to enhance their learning experience.

Pros:

• High-quality academic content.
• Flexible learning options.
• Recognized credentials.

Cons:

• Some courses can be challenging for beginners.
• Certificates can be expensive.

6. Pluralsight

Best For: Tech Skills
Current Price: $29 (monthly)

Overview:

Pluralsight is designed for tech professionals and students interested in IT, software development, and creative skills. Its focus is on practical, hands-on learning.

Key Features:

• Skill Assessments: Helps students identify their current skill level and areas for improvement.
• Learning Paths: Structured paths guide students through complex topics.
• Expert Instructors: Courses are taught by industry experts.

Pros:

• In-depth technical courses.
• Structured learning paths.
• Excellent for career advancement in tech fields.

Cons:

• Limited courses outside of technology.
• Monthly subscription may not provide value for casual learners.

7. MasterClass

Best For: Creative Arts
Current Price: $15 (monthly)

Overview:

MasterClass is known for its celebrity instructors and high-quality video lessons. It offers courses in various creative disciplines, making it perfect for aspiring artists, writers, and chefs.

Key Features:

• Celebrity Instructors: Learn from industry leaders like Gordon Ramsay and Shonda Rhimes.
• High Production Quality: Engaging video lessons and accompanying materials.
• Community Engagement: Students can discuss lessons and share projects.

Pros:

• Unique access to industry leaders.
• Engaging learning format.
• Focus on creativity and inspiration.

Cons:

• Limited course variety outside creative arts.
• Not all courses may be relevant for professional development.

8. FutureLearn

Best For: Social Sciences
Current Price: $39 (per course)

Overview:

FutureLearn focuses on social sciences, offering courses that encourage collaborative learning and discussions among peers.

Key Features:

• Collaborative Learning: Emphasizes peer interaction and group work.
• Diverse Subject Matter: Offers courses in humanities, history, and politics.
• Short Courses Available: Many courses are designed for quick learning.

Pros:

• Engaging and interactive format.
• Focus on collaborative skills.
• Diverse subject offerings.

Cons:

• Limited technical and vocational courses.
• Courses may be less structured than traditional formats.

How We Picked

To curate this list of the best online course platforms under $75 for students, we considered several key factors:

1. Affordability: All platforms are priced below $75, ensuring accessibility for students.
2. Course Variety: We looked for platforms that offer a wide range of subjects to cater to diverse interests.
3. Quality: Each platform was evaluated based on course quality, instructor expertise, and user feedback.
4. User Experience: We assessed the user interface and overall learning experience to ensure ease of use.
5. Additional Features: Unique features, such as community engagement or certification options, were taken into account.

Alternatives

While our top picks offer excellent value for students, here are a few other platforms worth considering:

• Khan Academy: Free resource for students seeking foundational knowledge in math, science, and arts.
• Codecademy: Ideal for students interested in coding and programming, offering a free tier and affordable Pro subscription.
• Alison: Provides free courses with an optional fee for certificates, focusing on professional skills.

FAQs

1. Are online courses worth it for students?

Yes, online courses can provide valuable skills and knowledge that enhance your education and employability.

2. Can I get a certificate after completing an online course?

Many platforms offer certificates upon completion, which can be beneficial for your resume or LinkedIn profile.

3. How do I choose the right online course?

Consider your interests and career goals, and read course reviews to gauge quality and relevance.

4. Is financial aid available for online courses?

Some platforms, such as Coursera, offer financial aid options for students who qualify.

5. Are there free options for online learning?

Yes, platforms like Khan Academy and edX offer free courses, allowing students to learn without financial commitment.

6. How long do I have access to my courses?

Most platforms provide lifetime access to purchased courses, while subscription-based services offer access for the duration of your membership.

Final Verdict

Investing in online courses can be a transformative experience for students, opening doors to new skills and opportunities. Our curated list of the best online course platforms under $75 in 2025 provides a solid foundation for your educational journey. Whether you're looking to enhance your career prospects or explore personal interests, these platforms offer quality, affordability, and flexibility that cater to diverse learning needs. With careful consideration of your goals and interests, you can choose the platform that best aligns with your aspirations.