Admission to online programs differs from school to school, but the application procedures are pretty standard across the board. If the institution has distance education as well as campus-based learning, then the requirements for applying will most likely be the same for both. In most cases, you must have a high school diploma, or equivalent, or a General Education Development (GED) certificate to be eligible for online education. Some online schools also have a minimum age requirement that students must be on the first day of classes.

Depending on the level of education and program you are applying to, most online colleges require satisfactory scores on admissions tests, such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This is also applicable for the specific degree program you are interested in. For example, a bachelor’s degree program will require a high school diploma, or equivalent, or an associate’s degree. For a master’s degree program, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree.

Be prepared to fill out numerous application forms, similar to the ones you would fill out for campus-based programs. General information will be required, as well as transcripts and other paperwork to show your past academic performance. Letters of recommendation, application essays, personal statements and additional written work may be mandatory for certain individuals and specific programs. Before admittance, many programs require applicants to complete surveys and exercises in computer literacy. Therefore, you may want to spend some time practicing computer skills, familiarizing yourself with software programs and such.

Here are some important questions to ask yourself before applying to online schools:

• Do you have a high school diploma, an equivalent or GED? If you did not finish high school, no matter the reason, you still have the opportunity to earn your GED through the American Council on Education. There are more than 3,400 testing centers available worldwide for you to earn your certificate and get started on your online college journey.
• Have you taken the SAT or ACT? Even if it’s not required for all schools, online college applicants should still take the SAT, ACT or both. You can register to take the SAT through The College Board, an organization that helps students with college admissions, guidance and assessment through its widely recognized testing programs. These standardized tests measure literacy, numeracy, and writing skills needed for admission and academic success in college.
• Have you submitted an admission essay? If the option is available, a great way to stand out from other applicants is to submit an admission essay. This is an opportunity to display your writing skills, while shedding light on your personal life and character. A compelling admission essay is a surefire way to secure your seat in college, online and on-campus. Before you start writing, check out Peterson’s admission essay guide that gives helpful do’s and don’ts and tips on how to start your written masterpiece.