1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Distance Learning

Online High School

Online high schools are becoming more and more popular. Whether students need to study from home to catch up on credits, tend to health concerns, or balance school with work (such as acting), virtual high schools can be a great choice for teens.
Online High School Profiles
American students can now choose from dozens of online high schools. The online high school profiles in this directory are all regionally accredited, the most widely-accepted form of accreditation in the United States. Note: this site does not do paid profiles; the online high schools in this section have been chosen by the site editor and reviewed impartially.
University-Affiliated Online High School Profiles
Some online high schools are affiliated with brick-and-mortar colleges. These university-sponsored programs may offer advantages such as the expertise of college-level professors or access to for-credit college courses. Many of these online high schools are tailored towards gifted students. However, there are also some university-affiliated programs available to those needing remedial coursework.…
Private Online High Schools
Private online high schools have limited government oversight. They do not to have to meet many federal and state regulations in terms of course offerings, teacher credentialing, and curriculum requirements. Because they receive no public funds, private online high school programs are often expensive.
How to Earn an Online High School Diploma for Teens
Earning an online high school diploma can be a smart choice for many teens. Learn how to choose an online high school, find free online high schools, and make sure your teen's online high school is accredited.
University-Affiliated Online High Schools
A growing number of brick-and-mortar universities are offering online high school programs. Although these online high schools vary in curriculum and cost, most university-affiliated programs are regionally accredited and are highly regarded.
Online Charter Schools
Online charter schools offer no-cost high school diploma programs to minor students living within their boundaries. In most states, online charter schools are controlled by (or “chartered” through) local school districts. Online charter schools receive less government oversight than traditional schools; but they are still controlled by state and local school boards.
Public Online High Schools
Many states offer public online high schools to interested minors. Public online high schools are free to residents and are usually accredited by the proper regional board.
How to Earn an Online High School Diploma as an Adult
Many adults realize that finishing a high school diploma can improve their employment prospects and make them eligible for workplace promotions. Here's the no-nonsense guide to finding an adult online high school, paying for online classes, and earning an accredited online high school diploma.
What You Need to Know about Distance Learning Charter Schools
Interested in enrolling your son or daughter in an online charter school? Here are the answers to the most common questions about distance learning through charter schools.
How to Choose an Online High School
Choosing an online high school is a challenge. Parents need to find a virtual program that offers an accredited diploma and provides academic support for students, all without breaking the bank. Asking the right questions will help you find the online high school that best meets your needs. Here are twelve of the most important questions to consider.
List of Private Online High School Profiles
Private online high schools are owned by corporations and often operate on a for-profit basis. While private online high schools can be expensive, they tend to offer more flexibility than government-run programs.

Just as traditional private schools vary, each private online school offers a different program aimed at a specific set of students. There are schools for the gifted as well as …
4 Types of Online High Schools
Not all online high schools are created equal. Learn the difference between online private schools, online public schools, online charter schools, and university-sponsored high schools online.
How to Find a Distance Learning Charter School in Your Area
Many states now offer distance learning charter school programs for elementary, middle, and high school students. Because charter schools are a public service, the state pays for all textbooks and course material and may even cover the cost of computer hardware, software, and a home internet connection.
Online High School 101
If you’re considering enrolling your teenager in a distance learning program, these articles and resources can help.
10 Myths About Online High Schools
Don’t believe everything you hear about online high schools. Dispel your misconceptions by finding out the truth behind the ten most common myths.
Volunteer Opportunities for Online High School Students
Many online high schools require that students complete volunteer hours in order to be eligible for a high school diploma. But, finding a local volunteer opportunity can be difficult if your school does not have a counseling office. Fortunately, volunteer websites can help. If you need to find a volunteer opportunity in your area, try one of these sites.
Get Your High School Diploma Online
More and more teenagers are beginning to earn their high school diplomas through the internet. Distance learning is often a great option for students who need to stay home for health reasons, desire to work at their own pace, find themselves unable to concentrate on their work in the traditional setting, or need to schedule their learning around a career (such as acting).
Online High School Diploma Programs with Regional Accreditation
Each private online high school in this directory offers a full diploma program and is accredited by one of the six regional accreditation agencies.
Is Online School Right for My Teen?
If you’re grappling with the difficult decision of whether or not to enroll your child in a distance learning program, these three considerations may help.
The Teenage Liberation Handbook: How to Quit School and Get a Real Life and Education
The Teenage Liberation Handbook will stir your emotions and lift your vision, whether you’re a teenager or a 42-year-old CEO. Although it’s written for teens, this book focuses on a theme all of us could stand to hear: learn what you love.
Online High School FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers about completing high school through the internet.
Pros and Cons of Earning Your High School Diploma Online
Moving from a traditional school to an online school can be a big transition for any student, whether they are a teenager or a returning adult. Take a look at a few of the pros and cons of the option before you make your decision.
High School Diploma or GED?
While many students spend years earning their high school diplomas, others take a battery of tests in a single day and move on to college with a GED. But, is a GED as good as an actual diploma? And do colleges and employers really care which one you choose? Take a look at the hard facts before deciding how to complete your high school education.

Explore Distance Learning

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Distance Learning
  4. Online High School

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.