An online education isn’t necessarily less expensive than attending a traditional institution, though there are many affordable online colleges. While distance-learners avoid costs associated with attending college on campus (e.g., room and board, campus-based facilities and services fees, commuting, time off from an otherwise full-time job), they’re sometimes charged a higher tuition rate or an online access fee for each credit. You’ll need to compare programs side by side to see which is most affordable for you.