Study.com and StraighterLine both help you earn college credit for less, but the experience isn’t the same. This quick comparison shows how each platform approaches cost, pacing, and learning.

Study.com: Structured, Video-Based Learning

Study.com delivers college-credit courses through short, digestible video lessons and a subscription-based pricing model.

Why Study.com’s Format Works Well for Busy Adults

If you prefer a guided, consistent structure, especially while juggling work, family, or unpredictable schedules, Study.com’s format offers clarity and predictability. Videos, quizzes, and a clear learning path let you make steady progress without guesswork.

How Study.com’s Plans and Pricing Work

Study.com offers two main plans:

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• The College Starter plan (about $95/month): Geared toward general education courses. On this plan, you get access to a core library of general-education classes and can complete unlimited courses per month, though you’re limited to enrolling in two at a time.
• The College Saver plan (about $235/month): Gives full access to over 220 lower- and upper-division course options, lets you enroll in up to 3 courses at once, and continues with unlimited courses per month.

Because all courses are included under the flat monthly fee, you can stack as many as you’re willing to take, which can significantly drop your effective cost per course if you complete multiple courses quickly.  

Why Study.com Credits Are Widely Accepted by Colleges

Courses on Study.com are reviewed by recognized evaluators American Council on Education (ACE) and National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS). That means credits earned are eligible for transfer to many accredited institutions.

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According to Study.com, more than 1,500 colleges and universities accept their courses for credit transfer. This is a strong indicator of broad acceptance.

StraighterLine: Self-Paced Text-Based Courses

If you’re self-driven, comfortable with reading and quizzes, and want to complete specific prerequisite or general-education courses quickly, StraighterLine might be your match.

How StraighterLine’s Courses Are Structured

Instead of video lectures, StraighterLine relies on text-based modules, quizzes, and final exams. This “no frills” approach removes structure in favor of speed and flexibility.  

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You decide your pace. If you already know the material, you can move fast; if not, you can take your time.

Costs And Course Fees

StraighterLine charges a membership fee of $99 per month, and each course typically costs US $79.

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Because you pay per course, not by flat subscription, each class is only charged when you take it. For someone doing only a handful of courses, this can be efficient.

Credit Transfer and Acceptance

Like Study.com, StraighterLine’s courses are recommended for college credit by ACE. Many accredited colleges, over 3,000 institutions, reportedly accept StraighterLine credits for transfer or have a history of doing so.

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That said, acceptance depends on the institution. It’s wise to confirm with your college’s admissions or registrar’s office before assuming all credits will apply to your degree.  

Study.com vs. StraighterLine - Which Offers Better Value for Your Learning Style and Schedule?

The best value isn’t about which platform looks cheaper; it’s about which one you’re most likely to finish.

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Both Study.com and StraighterLine can save you thousands compared to traditional tuition. The difference comes down to structure, pace, and how much guidance you need to keep moving.

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When Study.com Delivers the Most Value

Study.com is built for consistency.

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Its short video lessons, clear progression, and built-in structure make it easier to stay on track, especially when your schedule isn’t perfect. You always know what to do next, even if you’re studying in short bursts.

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Study.com is usually the better choice if you:

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• Work full-time or balance family responsibilities
• Prefer video lessons over heavy reading
• Want a predictable, guided learning path
• Plan to complete multiple courses under one monthly fee

💡Key insight: Because you can bundle many courses into a single subscription, Study.com’s cost per course drops quickly when you stay consistent.

When StraighterLine Makes Sense

StraighterLine favors speed over structure.

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Its text-based, self-paced model works best if you already have momentum and don’t need guidance. If you’re comfortable teaching yourself and only need to clear a few requirements, the pay-per-course setup can be efficient.

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StraighterLine may be a fit if you:

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• Prefer reading to video instruction
• Are highly self-motivated and disciplined
• Need to complete only a small number of specific courses
• Want flexibility without a guided path

👍 Good to know: Paying per course offers flexibility, but it doesn’t always beat Study.com’s bundled pricing if you’re stacking multiple classes in a month.

The Bottom Line

Both platforms work, but most adult learners benefit from structure more than speed.

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If you want predictable progress, lower stress, and a learning format designed for busy schedules, Study.com often delivers more value over time. StraighterLine can be effective for targeted goals, but it requires you to create your own momentum.

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The best platform is the one that keeps you moving forward. For many learners, that makes Study.com the smarter starting point.

Matching Your Learning Style to the Right College Credit Platform

Choosing between Study.com and StraighterLine depends on your learning style and how much structure you want. Study.com is often a better fit for learners who prefer guided lessons, predictable pacing, and lower per-course costs when taking multiple classes, while StraighterLine suits self-motivated students who prioritize speed and flexibility.

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The right choice can help you earn transferable college credit faster, save on tuition, and move closer to finishing your degree with confidence. Explore more Degree Hacking guides to discover smart ways to earn college credit faster, reduce tuition costs, and build a degree plan that fits your schedule.