Taking a full-time job or raising a family? Whether you’re trying to advance your career with a higher degree or looking to return to school after a long absence, University of Louisville online degree programs can help you reach both your educational and professional goals without traveling to class on a regular basis. And when it comes to the tuition fee you might be concerned, I hope the following exploration into the possible costs of attending UofL online classes can at least give you a general idea.

What about the tuition fees for online classes?

First of all, there’s good news for out-of-state online students. Why? You may find that many colleges and universities adopt different rates for residents and non-residents, including University of Louisville. You may have no idea of the difference. I’ll give you an example.

As for regular (not-online) undergraduate courses at University of Louisville, residents need to pay $4,733 per semester. However the tuition for non-residents will be $11,475 each semester. Local students only need to pay less than half of the tuition for non-residents. The gap is truly big. It may be unfair for non-residents. But you cannot change it.

However University of Louisville does not have different policies for online classes. Both in-state and out-of-state students taking online classes at University of Louisville will be charged the same tuition rates.

Perhaps that can account for why so many students apply for online degree programs at UofL each year. From my own experience, University of Louisville has done well from this aspect.

As for the past spring 2012 and summer 2012 online learning courses, graduate courses can cost you up to $660 per credit hour. Undergraduate courses may cost learners $460 each credit hour. If you’re active-duty service members, you’ll only have to pay $250 each credit hour. Reserve Component Service Members receiving Department of Defense Title X tuition assistance funds can also enjoy the special rates.

Its tuition rates of 2012 – 2014 almost remain the same. If you’re considering taking a program of urban planning & public administration in fall 2012, spring 2012 or summer 2013, your tuition rate will be $790 each credit hour. Online law students still have to pay up to $1,015 per credit hour.

Compared with other online colleges and universities, University of Louisville charges comparatively lower rates. For instance, if you’re planning to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Louisville online, a total of 120 credit hours are needed to complete the program. Then you may have to pay up to $55,200 to get an online BSN degree.

Still find it quite expensive? Yes, it could be a big sum for most students. University of Louisville also takes several measures to lower the total cost of online education. Various kinds of financial aids can help reduce the costs for online learners.

How many financial aid options are available at University of Louisville?

Online students who have enrolled in University of Louisville can take advantage of several financial aid options to make degree earning affordable for their family. The following forms of financial aid may help you a lot.

• File the FAFSA for need-based federal student aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) may be the cornerstone of financial aid process for all online students. After filing and submitting your FAFSA application, you’ll get to know your eligibility for the need-based federal student aid.

Pay special attention to the DEADLINES! There’re federal and state deadlines if you’re applying for the 2012-2013 student aid. The federal deadline is midnight Central Time, June 30, 2013. All online applications must be submitted before that time. There’s also a state deadline in Kentucky. Your student aid applications should be submitted as soon as possible after January 1, 2012.

When filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, you may need to provide your school code. The University of Louisville school code is 001999.

• Military benefits

Military personnel deserve our respect. University of Louisville also provides special discounts for military personnel. No matter you’re considering taking online undergraduate or graduate courses at University of Louisville, all courses are $250 per credit hour if you’re on active duty. Please note that active duty is usually defined as on orders for at least 180 days or more.

Active duty personnel who are applying for admission can contact UofL to ensure you’re charged the appropriate tuition rate.

• Employer tuition assistance

If you’re working for an employer, ask him/her if this benefit is available. Many corporations provide a variety of employer-sponsored programs to help employees pay for college. Employer reimbursement programs are particularly popular among students earning an online MBA degree.

• Grants and scholarships

University of Louisville online students may be eligible for the Go Higher Grant. This is a need-based grant awarded to Kentucky residents aged 24 or older. While taking online classes at UofL, you may receive up to $1,000 for one academic year. Check the qualification requirements below and find out whether you’re eligible for the grant.

• Be a Kentucky resident

• Age 24 or older

• Demonstrate financial need

• Be a U.S. citizen, national or permanent resident

• Not have a bachelor’s degree

University of Louisville also has some scholarships for qualified students. If you attend KCTCS or Ivy Tech Community College, consider applying for the Academic Transfer Scholarship. You may qualify for the program.

With so many financial aid sources, earning a degree online at University of Louisville won’t put extra financial burdens to your family. You don’t have to worry about skyrocketing fees of attending University of Louisville online classes.

Note: This web site is not affiliated with or connected to University of Louisville. For accurate and professional information, go to University of Louisville official site.