edX Online

How edX works

How does edX work? edX offers individual courses, professional certificates, and accredited degree programs, and delivers world-class education to anyone with an internet connection. Check out our guide to learn more about how edX works.

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Key takeaways

  • Learners on edX can complete individual courses or longer certificate programs to gain foundational skills and recognized credentials from top universities and industry leaders.
  • Founded by faculty from top universities, edX credentials are recognized by employers and institutions worldwide.
  • Learners can audit courses at no cost to explore new areas of study risk-free before committing to a verified certificate program.

What is edX and how does it work?

Founded by Harvard and MIT professors, edX is an online learning platform that aims to deliver world-class education to students around the globe.

Learners can create a free account to explore course and program offerings, selecting from individual courses, professional certificates, executive education programs, microcredentials programs, and even full degree programs.

How edX works (step-by-step)

Joining edX takes just minutes — no application is necessary, and courses are available anytime. Follow these three simple steps to start your learning journey today:

Create a free edX account

To get started, you need to provide your name, an email address, and a password.

Find a course or program

You can search by program type or subject to find the right course or program for your educational and professional goals.

Enroll and start learning

After enrolling in a course, you can begin reviewing course materials, completing assignments, and engaging with the learning community.

edX pricing: Free vs. paid courses

Cost
Audit track
$0
Verified track
Starting at around $50
Access to content
Audit track
Limited
Verified track
Unlimited access
Assignments
Audit track
No graded assignments
Verified track
Graded assignments available
Certificate
Audit track
None
Verified track
Verified certificate
Best for
Audit track
Casual learners who don't need an official certificate, or students who want to try out a course before committing to a program.
Verified track
Learners who want to earn a credential to demonstrate their skills and experience to potential employers or clients.

What makes edX different?

Founded by MIT and Harvard professors, edX aims to bring world-class education to learners worldwide. With edX, students can earn affordable certificates from prestigious issuing institutions without relocating.

In addition to individual courses, edX also offers professional certificates, executive education programs, microcredentials, and degree programs. Learners at every stage of their careers can access reputable education from trusted institutional partners to support their next steps.

Types of programs on edX

Courses

Students can access individual short courses from world-class universities and industry leaders. Auditors gain free access to lectures, readings, and practice assignments, while students on the verified track gain access to graded assignments and earn an official credential upon ompleting the course.

  • Time commitment: 2-6 weeks
  • Cost: Verified track starts at around $50
  • Best for: Learners who want to upskill quickly without committing to a long-term program

Is edX worth it?

Depending on your goals and schedule, edX may be worth it for you. Consider the following benefits:

  • Connect with global learners using discussion forums.
  • Set your own pace with flexible coursework and certificate programs.
  • Earn verified certificates that you can share on your résumé or LinkedIn profile.
  • Gain affordable and transferable university credits through microcredential programs.

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Join millions of learners worldwide

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Learner network
5300+
Online programs
250+
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Frequently asked questions

Is edX really free to use?

Yes, edX is free to use. Learners can create a free account with their name, email address, and password. While students must pay to access graded assessments, unlimited access to course materials, and verified certificates, auditing a course is free.

How much do edX certificates cost?

Certificates earned for individual courses start at around $50, while multi-course professional certificate programs start at around $500. Learners pursuing an executive education program can expect to pay at least $2,500. Microcredentials start at $500 for a MicroBachelors® program and $1500 for a MicroMasters® program.

Are edX certificates worth it for jobs?

While edX certificates do not guarantee job placement, learners who complete a verified certificate program can acquire foundational skills and share recognized credentials on their résumé or LinkedIn profile. Recognized partners like Harvard, Google, and IBM help strengthen the recognition of edX certificates.

Can you get a degree through edX?

You can apply to enroll in a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree through edX. If you want to get ahead or get a taste before starting your degree, you may earn transferable college credits at the undergraduate level with MicroBachelors®. You can also explore graduate-level coursework without committing to a full graduate program with MicroMasters®.

How long do edX courses take to complete?

Specific timelines vary, but individual courses generally take 2-6 weeks to complete. Auditors do not retain access to course materials after the course ends. Still, students who complete a course on the verified track enjoy unlimited access to lectures, readings, and lessons even after the course end date.

Is edX accredited or recognized?

edX's college-level courses and programs may be accredited through the institution offering the program, and employers recognize the legitimacy of edX certificates. Top universities and industry leaders partner with edX to deliver flexible, affordable online learning opportunities to learners around the world.

Do edX courses have deadlines?

Yes, edX courses may have deadlines, making them ideal for learners who want a structured format to keep them motivated. Learners in the Verified Track retain unlimited access to course materials, so you can continue to review even after the course has concluded.

Can beginners use edX?

Yes, beginners can use edX to build foundational skills and explore new career paths. Because edX allows learners to audit courses for free, beginners can try out a course risk-free before committing to a verified certificate or longer program.