Popular Incentives for Online Schools: Attracting and Retaining Students

3 minute read

By Stacey Styles

The rise of online education has led to fierce competition among schools and programs. To stand out, online schools are trying to make enrollment more appealing. Let’s explore some of the most popular incentives that online schools use to attract and retain students.

Flexible Scheduling Options

One of the biggest draws of online education is its flexibility, and many schools capitalize on this by offering multiple scheduling options. Some online programs allow students to start courses at any time of the year, rather than waiting for traditional semester start dates. This “rolling admissions” model makes it easier for students to jump in when they’re ready.

In addition to flexible start dates, many programs offer asynchronous learning. This means students can access course materials and complete assignments on their own schedule, without having to log in at specific times. This is especially beneficial for working adults or those with family responsibilities who need the freedom to study at their own pace.

Tuition Discounts and Financial Aid

Cost is often a significant factor in a student’s decision to enroll in an online school. To make their programs more accessible, many online schools offer incentives such as tuition discounts, scholarships, or flexible payment plans. 1 Some schools even offer reduced rates for students who pay tuition upfront or enroll in multiple courses at once.

In addition to discounts, online schools often provide information on financial aid options, such as grants and student loans, to help ease the financial burden. By making education more affordable, schools increase their appeal to a broader range of students, especially those who might not otherwise be able to afford tuition costs.

Career Support and Job Placement Services

Another popular incentive that online schools use to attract students is the promise of strong career support. Many schools now offer career counseling, resume-building workshops, and job placement services as part of their enrollment package. 2 These services help students transition from education to the workforce by offering guidance on job searches, interview preparation, and networking.

For working professionals, some online programs offer internships or co-op opportunities that provide practical experience in their field of study. This hands-on approach can make students more competitive in the job market, increasing the value of their education.

Access to Technology and Learning Resources

To enhance the learning experience, many online schools provide students with access to valuable technology and resources. Some programs include no-fee or discounted laptops, tablets, or software to help students stay connected and complete their coursework. This can be a big draw for students who might otherwise struggle to afford the necessary tools for online learning.

In addition to technology, many online schools offer access to extensive digital libraries, research databases, and tutoring services. These resources help students succeed academically by giving them the support they need to complete assignments, research projects, and prepare for exams.

Personalized Learning Plans

Online schools are increasingly adopting personalized learning plans to retain students and keep them engaged throughout their studies. These plans allow students to work at their own pace and focus on areas where they need the most improvement. Schools use data from assessments and assignments to customize a student’s learning path, ensuring they get the most out of their education.

By offering tailored learning experiences, online schools can cater to a wide range of learners, from those who need extra help in certain subjects to advanced students looking to move through material more quickly.

Learn More About Online Schools

To attract and retain students, online schools are offering a wide range of incentives, from flexible scheduling and financial aid to career support and personalized learning plans. By addressing the common challenges that students face, such as affordability, access to resources, and engagement, these incentives make online education more appealing and accessible.

Contributor

Stacy is a gifted writer, passionate about making a wide variety of topics accessible to all learners. With a background in educational psychology, she focuses on crafting clear, effective resources that empower readers to succeed. When she's not writing, Stacy enjoys rock climbing with her partner and spending time at her family cottage.