In a Nutshell
University of the People (UoPeople) is an accredited, nonprofit, tuition-free online university dedicated to making higher education accessible globally. Founded in 2009 in Pasadena, California, UoPeople offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in high-demand fields such as Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, and Health Science. Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) — recognized by the U.S. Department of Education — it enables students from more than 200 countries to earn quality degrees online at minimal cost.
Pros
- Accredited and tuition-free education
- Global student community from 200+ countries
- Flexible, asynchronous learning model
- Partnerships with Microsoft, Google, and NYU
- Scholarships available for underserved learners
Cons
University of the People at a Glance
Best for: Students seeking accredited, tuition-free online degrees with flexible schedules and global access
Financial aid: Yes — scholarships, grants, and fee waivers for qualifying students
Available Degrees: Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees
Number of programs: 10+ programs in Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, and Health Science
Outstanding features: Tuition-free model; DEAC accreditation; partnerships with Google, Microsoft, and NYU; diverse global student body
Why Choose University of the People?
University of the People represents a breakthrough in educational equity. Its tuition-free model dismantles financial barriers to higher education, providing quality degree pathways for learners who might otherwise be excluded. The institution is supported by leading philanthropies and partners with tech and academic giants, reflecting its credibility and mission-driven structure.
Volunteer faculty from globally respected institutions—including Harvard, Oxford, and Yale—teach across programs, ensuring academic rigor. The model emphasizes peer collaboration and cultural exchange, producing a learning experience that is both inclusive and transformative.
University of the People Special Features
Flexibility and Accessibility
All courses are delivered online and asynchronously, allowing students to learn at their own pace. This model supports full-time workers, parents, and learners in regions with limited access to higher education.
Accredited and Recognized Degrees
University of the People is accredited by both the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), both of which are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. These accreditations affirm that UoPeople’s academic programs meet established U.S. higher education standards for quality and institutional accountability. Partnerships with universities such as NYU, UC Berkeley, and the University of Edinburgh provide pathways for further study.
Affordable Education
UoPeople eliminates tuition fees and charges minimal course assessment fees. For students facing hardship, scholarships and full assessment waivers are available through corporate partners and nonprofit foundations.
Global Community and Support
With students from over 200 countries, UoPeople fosters cultural exchange and collaboration. Academic advisors and peer mentors provide ongoing support through every stage of the degree program.
How It Works
- Application: Complete the online application form, pay the one-time application fee, provide appropriate educational credentials (such as high school diploma or equivalent) and, if you are a non-native English speaker, evidence of English proficiency.
- Admission: After review, admitted applicants are supported by an Admissions Advisor and receive confirmation of admission into the degree program, contingent on meeting any program prerequisites or foundation courses.
- Orientation: Newly admitted students must complete a mandatory orientation mini-course to become familiar with the online learning environment, study process and resources.
- Learning: Degree courses are offered fully online in a nine-week term format (eight weekly learning units followed by a four-day examination period). Students engage in asynchronous study, peer discussions and assignments.
- Assessment: At the end of each course students complete the final assessment/exam. A course assessment fee of US $120 per undergraduate course and US $240 per graduate course applies (in addition to the application fee).
- Graduation: Upon completion of all required courses, satisfying program-specific credit requirements and paying all assessment fees, students receive an accredited degree from UoPeople.
Accreditation and Certification
UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This ensures that its degrees are legitimate and globally respected.
The university’s collaborations with institutions like NYU, UC Berkeley, and University of Edinburgh further enhance academic credibility and enable credit transfer options.
What Former Students Have to Say
“Studying at UoPeople allows me to earn my MBA while balancing a busy work schedule” - Sean H.
“I love the diversity of UoPeople - I’ve gained a greater global perspective” - Joshua C.
“The instructor of UoPeople are indecreidbly helpful an totally dedicated to students’ growth” - Saltanat A
UoPeople Support Center
- Email (admissions): admissions@uopeople.edu
- General info: info@uopeople.edu
- Program advising (current students): advising@uopeople.edu
- Phone: +1 (626) 264-8880
- Meet in person (by appointment): Fridays 8:00 am–12:00 pm PT at 595 E. Colorado Blvd, Suite 623, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA.
Bottom Line
University of the People redefines modern education by offering fully accredited, tuition-free degrees accessible to anyone, anywhere. Its combination of academic rigor, nonprofit mission, and affordability makes it an exceptional option for learners who need flexibility without sacrificing quality.
While the range of degrees is limited, the institution’s credibility, DEAC and WASC approval and accreditation, and global partnerships make it a strong contender for students seeking recognized, cost-effective online education. For individuals striving for academic progress without financial strain, UoPeople provides a legitimate and inclusive pathway.
Disclaimer: AI was used in the creation of this content, along with human validation and proofreading.
