Higher education is expensive, but University of the People (UoPeople) offers a tuition-free, fully online pathway to earn an accredited U.S. degree. Students pay small assessment fees per course instead of tuition, making degrees accessible globally.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: programs, costs, scholarships, admissions, and tips to succeed.
How University of the People Works
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100% online: Study anywhere, anytime.
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Tuition-free: Instruction and course materials are free.
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Assessment fees: $160 per undergraduate course, $400–$450 per graduate course.
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Scholarships: Available for students who need financial help.
Key takeaway: You can earn a recognized degree without the financial burden of traditional universities.
Programs Offered
Undergraduate Degrees
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Associate & Bachelor’s in Business Administration
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Associate & Bachelor’s in Computer Science
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Bachelor’s in Health Science
Graduate Degrees
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MBA (Master of Business Administration)
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M.Ed. (Master of Education)
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MSIT (Master of Science in Information Technology)
These programs focus on career-ready skills and allow students to move into global job markets.
Costs Made Simple
| Degree | Application Fee | Course Fee | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $60 | $160 | ~$3,260 |
| Bachelor | $60 | $160 | ~$6,460 |
| MBA | $60 | $450 | ~$5,460 |
| M.Ed. | $60 | $400 | ~$5,260 |
Compared to $20,000–$40,000/year at traditional U.S. universities, UoPeople is highly affordable.
Who Can Apply
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High school diploma or equivalent
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Basic English proficiency
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Internet access and a computer
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No SAT/ACT required
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Open to students from over 200 countries
Tip: Apply early to secure scholarships that cover assessment fees.
Benefits
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Affordable: Minimal fees make higher education accessible.
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Flexible: Learn at your own pace, from anywhere.
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Global community: Interact with students worldwide.
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Accredited: Degrees recognized in the U.S. and internationally.
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Career-focused: Programs in business, tech, and health.
Considerations
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Fully online: No campus experience
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Limited program choices compared to traditional universities
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Requires self-discipline and strong time management
Despite these limitations, UoPeople offers one of the most practical pathways to an affordable degree.
Potential Challenges to Consider
While the university provides many benefits, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.
Here are a few things to consider.
Limited number of programs
Compared with large universities, program choices are still relatively limited.
Online learning requires discipline
Students must manage their own study schedules.
No traditional campus experience
All learning takes place online.
However, for students seeking affordable education, these trade-offs are often worth it.
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Complete the online application
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Pay the $60 application fee (or request a waiver)
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Submit academic transcripts
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Start foundation courses
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Apply for scholarships if needed
Students can start in multiple admission terms per year, making enrollment flexible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of the People completely free?
Instruction and course materials are free, but students pay small application and course assessment fees.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Students from over 200 countries and territories are enrolled at the university.
How much does a bachelor’s degree cost?
The estimated cost is about $6,460, depending on the number of courses completed.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. Scholarships can cover application fees and course assessment fees for eligible students.
Is the degree accredited?
Yes. University of the People is accredited by recognized U.S. accrediting organizations.
Final Thoughts on University of the People Online Tuition Free Degrees
Higher education is one of the most powerful tools for improving economic opportunities and personal growth.
However, traditional universities remain financially inaccessible for many people.
University of the People Online Tuition Free Degrees represent a new approach to higher education, one that prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and flexibility.
By eliminating tuition and offering accredited online programs, the university has created a pathway for students worldwide to earn degrees without overwhelming debt.
For anyone seeking an affordable, flexible, and globally recognized education, University of the People provides a powerful alternative to traditional universities.
Official site: Apply Now
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