Cost continues to be one of students’ biggest concerns when it comes to making decisions about online education, according to a new survey about the state of online learning.
Surveyed students said cost estimates, finding funding sources, and navigating the financial aid process is confusing and challenging.
Seventy-two percent of students said job and employments goals are the primary drivers of their enrollment, including transitioning to a new career field (36 percent) and earning academic credentials in a current field of work (32 percent).
The 2017 Online Education Trends Report from BestColleges.com surveyed more than 300 school administrators and 1,500 students to gain information about current experiences in online education.
Next page: Why did students select their specific online education program?
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland's prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism. Latest posts by Laura Ascione (see all) - Weak tech could push students, faculty to other institutions - April 13, 2026
- 13 predictions about edtech, innovation, and–yes–AI in 2026 - January 1, 2026
- 5 essential dimensions of AI literacy - December 12, 2025
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland's prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
Latest posts by Laura Ascione (see all)
- Weak tech could push students, faculty to other institutions - April 13, 2026
- 13 predictions about edtech, innovation, and–yes–AI in 2026 - January 1, 2026
- 5 essential dimensions of AI literacy - December 12, 2025