In recent years, online education has transformed from a convenient alternative into a globally recognized pathway to earning quality degrees. With universities expanding virtual learning programs, students now have access to online bachelor’s degrees that provide the same credibility and rigor as traditional on-campus programs. However, one concern that remains constant is the financial cost of higher education. Fortunately, 2025 brings a wave of online bachelor’s degree scholarships that allow students to earn their degrees remotely—often at little to no cost.
This article highlights the best online bachelor’s degree scholarships for 2025, focusing on fully funded and partial funding opportunities offered by reputable universities, governments, and global institutions.
1. The University of the People (UoPeople) Scholarships
The University of the People remains a leading pioneer in tuition-free online education. Accredited in the United States, UoPeople offers fully online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, and Education.
While the university itself is tuition-free, students are responsible for minimal assessment fees. However, in 2025, several scholarship programs—such as the UoPeople Refugee Scholarship and the Foundation Hoffman Scholarship—cover all assessment costs.
These scholarships make it possible for thousands of students, including those from developing countries, to earn a bachelor’s degree without worrying about tuition expenses.
2. Arizona State University (ASU) Online Scholarships
Arizona State University Online is recognized as one of the best institutions for distance learning. It offers over 100 online bachelor’s degree programs in diverse disciplines, including engineering, business, arts, and social sciences.
For 2025, ASU has expanded its online scholarship portfolio to include:
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Global Education Scholarship for international learners with exceptional academic achievements.
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Transfer Achievement Award for students transferring from community colleges.
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Online Leadership Scholarship for learners who demonstrate leadership and community service.
These scholarships significantly reduce tuition fees and are renewable for up to four years of study, making ASU Online an attractive choice for online degree seekers.
3. Western Governors University (WGU) Excellence Scholarships
Western Governors University is a fully accredited online institution that focuses on competency-based education. It allows students to progress through programs as they master each subject, offering flexibility and affordability.
For 2025, WGU offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships, such as:
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WGU Online Access Scholarship – designed for students who face financial barriers to higher education.
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Future Leaders Scholarship – awarded to students pursuing degrees in education, business, and IT.
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Online Degree Advancement Grant – a fully funded option for outstanding applicants.
Each award provides up to full coverage of tuition, ensuring that motivated learners can achieve their academic goals from anywhere in the world.
4. Open University UK Scholarships
The Open University (OU) in the United Kingdom has been a global leader in distance education for decades. It offers internationally recognized online bachelor’s programs in areas like psychology, engineering, and business.
For 2025, OU has launched a variety of funding opportunities:
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Carers’ Bursary Fund – for students who balance studies with family responsibilities.
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Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund – for learners with disabilities or health challenges.
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Open Futures Scholarship – for underrepresented and low-income students seeking online degrees.
These scholarships not only reduce tuition fees but also provide mentorship and academic support, helping students succeed in an online learning environment.
5. Penn State World Campus Scholarships
Penn State World Campus, the online division of Pennsylvania State University, offers over 150 accredited degree programs. Its online bachelor’s degrees maintain the same academic rigor as those earned on campus.
In 2025, the institution continues to offer a wide range of scholarship opportunities:
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World Campus Undergraduate Scholarship – for high-achieving online learners.
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Need-Based Scholarship Program – designed to support financially disadvantaged students.
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Alumni Program Awards – available for returning students or those with family members who attended Penn State.
These scholarships make it easier for students to pursue a globally respected Penn State degree entirely online.
6. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Online Scholarships
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is one of the fastest-growing online universities in the U.S., offering over 100 affordable bachelor’s degree programs.
For 2025, SNHU provides various scholarships for online learners, including:
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Innovation in Education Scholarship – for students pursuing education and technology-related degrees.
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Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship – supporting underrepresented groups in higher education.
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Merit Achievement Award – for students maintaining a high GPA in their online courses.
These scholarships can significantly lower tuition fees, making SNHU a top choice for flexible, accredited online learning.
7. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are among the most prestigious global awards for online education. Funded by the UK government, they enable students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees through distance learning at top UK universities.
For 2025, the program continues to support online learners in fields such as public health, business, and environmental studies. The scholarship covers full tuition, study materials, and technical support—making it a fully funded opportunity for deserving students.
This initiative helps bridge the gap between accessibility and academic excellence, empowering students to study from their home countries while earning an internationally recognized degree.
8. University of London Online Scholarships
The University of London offers numerous globally recognized online programs in partnership with top institutions like the London School of Economics (LSE) and University College London (UCL).
Its Global Online Learning Scholarships for 2025 provide full or partial tuition waivers for outstanding students. The university also continues to offer the Commonwealth Scholarships and Global Leaders Awards for bachelor’s degree applicants.
Eligible programs include online bachelor’s degrees in business, computer science, law, data science, and international relations. With its world-class reputation, the University of London’s online scholarships provide students access to elite education at reduced costs.
9. Purdue University Global Scholarships
Purdue University Global, an extension of Purdue University, offers online bachelor’s programs tailored to adult learners and working professionals.
In 2025, the university is offering several scholarship opportunities, including:
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ExcelTrack Scholarship – rewarding students who accelerate their studies through the competency-based model.
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Military and Veterans’ Scholarship – for active-duty service members and their families.
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Academic Excellence Award – for students maintaining strong academic performance throughout their program.
These scholarships highlight Purdue Global’s commitment to affordability and accessibility in online higher education.
10. African Virtual University (AVU) Scholarships
For students in Africa seeking online undergraduate education, the African Virtual University (AVU) continues to expand its reach with fully accredited programs.
In 2025, AVU offers full and partial scholarships for bachelor’s degrees in education, computer science, and business administration. These scholarships are supported by partner governments and international organizations to promote digital learning and workforce development across the continent.
AVU’s mission is to democratize education by eliminating geographical and financial barriers, making it one of the most important online learning platforms in the developing world.
11. Coursera and edX Partner University Scholarships
In 2025, online learning platforms like Coursera and edX continue to collaborate with top universities—including Yale, Stanford, and Imperial College London—to provide fully funded bachelor’s-level programs and micro-degree pathways.
These platforms offer Financial Aid Scholarships that waive up to 100% of course fees for eligible students. Learners can complete online bachelor’s degrees or professional pathways in business, data science, and computer engineering.
This democratization of education ensures that talented students worldwide can access top-tier instruction from leading universities at no cost.
Tips for Applying to Online Bachelor’s Degree Scholarships
To increase your chances of success, follow these key strategies:
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Start early – Scholarship deadlines often occur months before the academic year begins.
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Prepare strong personal statements – Highlight your career goals, leadership, and commitment to online learning.
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Gather official documents – Transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need are essential.
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Demonstrate motivation – Institutions seek dedicated learners who can thrive in virtual learning environments.
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Apply to multiple opportunities – Diversify your applications to increase your odds of receiving funding.
Final Thoughts
The year 2025 presents unprecedented opportunities for students to pursue online bachelor’s degrees with the help of fully funded and partially funded scholarships. Whether through traditional universities like Arizona State University and Penn State, or innovative online institutions like University of the People and Western Governors University, there are countless pathways to earning a globally respected degree from the comfort of your home.