If you are among the many college studentes who have decided to pursue an online degree, then finding the right online school for you is an important decision. Aside from personal preferences, there are 4 defining features of a top online school that can help you distinguish it from its competitors:

1. Accreditation

In order to be sure that your online degree is legitimate and recognized by potential employers, qualifies you for federal financial aid, and allows you to transfer credits to other colleges or universities, it’s essential that the online school you choose is accredited.

Accreditation is an evaluation process determining whether that school has met regional or national standards. It’s as if the school took a quality test and passed and they have the diploma to prove it. National accreditation is fine so long as the accreditor is legitimate and authorized by the U.S. Department of Education; regional accreditation is even better.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) provide access to databases listing authorized accrediting agencies. Be certain that the school you are considering is accredited by an authorized agency listed in one of these databases. A top online school will have regional accreditation.

2. Where your cost savings comes from

Although at times online degree programs can be less expensive than traditional campus degree programs, that’s not always the case, especially at a reputable, accredited online school. Since you don’t want to skimp on your education and your future, consider cost savings from not having to pay for transportation, parking, or room and board, rather than from the price of the program itself.

Also, watch out for schools that offer an all-in-one price per degree (A bachelor’s degree for just $400!) - this is more often a defining feature of a diploma mill, not a legitimate college! A top online school will price degree programs by credit hour, just like traditional bricks-and-mortar schools do.

3. Accessible financial aid administrators

Since you are (of course) only going to consider accredited online schools, then you may eligible for federal financial aid. The first step towards getting federal financial aid is filing a Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and this can be a lengthy and confusing process. Take note of whether the school’s financial aid office provides knowledgeable customer service and walks you through the FAFSA in a friendly, generous, and patient manner.

The financial aid office of a top online school should also be able to tell you about other types of financial aid you may be eligible for, such as grants or scholarships, fully optimizing your financial aid options.

4. 24/7 Technical Support

The fact that your online learning experience occurs electronically means that the potential for technical difficulties is significant. In addition, one advantage of an online class is the fact that you work at your own pace and on your own schedule, which means you could experience technical problems at any time of the day or night. Therefore, another defining feature of a top online school is that it offers adequate technical support - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Is there a Help Desk phone number you can call, in case you can’t reach them by computer?