Free Online Courses and Certifications
Build job-ready skills for free with online courses from Google, Microsoft, Coursera, and more. No degree needed, no criminal background check, learn on your own schedule.
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Quick Answer
You can build real, job-ready skills online for free or very low cost -- no degree required and no background check to enroll. Google Career Certificates in IT Support, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Project Management, UX Design, and Digital Marketing are available on Coursera for about $49/month (with financial aid available to make them free). Upon completion, you can apply directly for jobs with over 150 hiring partners including Google, Deloitte, Target, and Verizon.
Completely free options include Khan Academy, edX audit courses from Harvard and MIT, Microsoft Learn, Google Skillshop, and Per Scholas (free in-person IT training). Many public libraries also offer free access to LinkedIn Learning with thousands of professional courses.
These courses have no background checks, no admission requirements, and no age limits. You can learn at your own pace from a phone, tablet, or computer. A criminal record does not prevent you from earning any online certification. This is one of the most accessible ways to build skills and improve your employment prospects.
Programs and Options
Google Career Certificates
Professional Certificate (Coursera)
People who want an employer-recognized credential that leads directly to job opportunities
- -Certificates in IT Support, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, UX Design, Project Management, Digital Marketing, and AI
- -No prior experience or degree required
- -Over 150 hiring partners (Google, Deloitte, Target, Verizon, Infosys)
- -IT Support certificate prepares you for CompTIA A+ certification
- -Dual credential available from Google and CompTIA for IT Support
- -Financial aid through Coursera can make it completely free
- -Self-paced -- learn on your schedule
Google Career Certificates are one of the best values in career education. Each certificate takes 3-6 months to complete at about 10 hours per week. Google treats these certificates as equivalent to a four-year degree for their own hiring. The IT Support certificate also prepares you for the CompTIA A+ exam, and graduates who pass earn a dual credential from Google and CompTIA. Apply for financial aid on Coursera if cost is a barrier -- many learners access these certificates for free.
Per Scholas -- Free IT Training
In-Person / Hybrid Training (Free)
People who prefer in-person learning and want comprehensive career support
- -Tuition-free IT training -- no hidden costs
- -Prepares you for CompTIA A+ and Google IT Support certifications
- -In-person and hybrid programs in 20+ cities
- -Job placement assistance and career coaching
- -Specifically designed for underrepresented communities
- -Accepts students with criminal records
- -Provides laptop for training if needed
Per Scholas is a nonprofit that provides completely free IT training and career support. Programs are available in cities across the country including New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Columbus, Philadelphia, and more. Courses prepare you for CompTIA A+ and Google IT Support certifications. Per Scholas explicitly welcomes applicants with criminal records and provides wrap-around support including career coaching and job placement assistance.
Khan Academy
Free Online Learning
People who need to build foundational skills in math, reading, and science
- -Completely free, no subscriptions, no hidden costs
- -Math, science, economics, computing, and more
- -Excellent for GED prep and college readiness
- -Interactive exercises and video lessons
- -Works on any device -- phone, tablet, or computer
- -No account required (but creating one tracks your progress)
Khan Academy is a nonprofit providing 100% free education for anyone, anywhere. While it does not offer career certificates, it is the best free resource for building foundational skills that you will need for GED prep, college courses, trade school, and many certification exams. The math, computing, and economics courses are especially useful for career preparation.
Coursera (Audit Mode)
Free Online Courses (from Top Universities)
People who want to explore different fields or build specific skills from top institutions
- -Free access to courses from Harvard, Stanford, Google, IBM, and more
- -Audit mode lets you view all course content for free
- -Financial aid available for certificates
- -Topics include programming, data science, business, and more
- -Professional certificates available from Google, IBM, Meta
- -Mobile app -- learn from your phone
Coursera partners with top universities and companies to offer thousands of courses. In audit mode, you can access most course content for free -- you just do not receive a certificate. If you need the certificate, financial aid is available and covers the full cost for those who qualify. Coursera is home to Google Career Certificates, IBM Data Science certificates, Meta Front-End Developer certificate, and many more employer-recognized credentials.
edX (Audit Mode)
Free Online Courses (from Top Universities)
People interested in computer science, data science, or college-level coursework
- -Founded by Harvard and MIT
- -Free audit access to thousands of courses
- -Computer science, data science, business, and humanities
- -MicroMasters and Professional Certificate programs
- -College-level courses that may count toward credit
- -Over 20 million learners worldwide
edX was founded by Harvard and MIT and offers courses from over 160 universities. Like Coursera, you can audit most courses for free. edX is particularly strong in computer science (CS50 from Harvard is one of the most popular online courses ever), data science, and engineering. Professional Certificate programs from companies like IBM and AWS are also available.
Microsoft Learn
Free Training and Certifications
People interested in cloud computing, IT administration, or Microsoft technologies
- -Free interactive training modules on Microsoft technologies
- -Paths for Azure cloud, data, AI, security, and Microsoft 365
- -Free career essentials certificates with LinkedIn Learning
- -Applied Skills credentials at no cost
- -Student discounts and free exam vouchers sometimes available
- -Highly valued by employers using Microsoft technologies
Microsoft Learn provides free, hands-on training modules for all Microsoft technologies. While the training is free, Microsoft certification exams cost $165-$330. However, Microsoft frequently offers discounts, free retakes, and student pricing. The free Career Essentials certificates (in partnership with LinkedIn Learning) in Project Management, Data Analysis, Software Development, and Generative AI are a good starting point. Applied Skills credentials are offered at no cost.
LinkedIn Learning (Free Through Libraries)
Professional Development Courses
People who have a library card and want access to a massive course library
- -Over 16,000 expert-led video courses
- -Business, technology, and creative skills
- -Many public libraries offer free access with a library card
- -Courses on leadership, marketing, programming, design, and more
- -Certificates of completion for each course
- -Mobile app -- watch courses on your phone
LinkedIn Learning offers over 16,000 courses in business, technology, and creative skills. A subscription normally costs $30/month, but many public libraries offer free access to all courses -- just log in with your library card. Check with your local library to see if they participate. Even without library access, LinkedIn Learning offers select free courses and a one-month free trial.
No Background Check Required
Online learning platforms do not conduct criminal background checks. Anyone can sign up and start learning immediately. Your criminal record does not affect your ability to earn certificates from Google, Microsoft, Coursera, edX, Khan Academy, or any other online learning platform. These credentials are based purely on your demonstrated knowledge and skills. This makes online education one of the most accessible pathways for people rebuilding their lives.
Best Free Certifications for Getting Hired
If your goal is getting hired as quickly as possible, focus on certifications that employers actively look for. The Google IT Support Certificate (prepares you for CompTIA A+) is widely recognized and leads to $35,000-$55,000 entry-level IT jobs. Google Data Analytics Certificate opens doors to data analyst roles paying $50,000-$75,000. Google Cybersecurity Certificate prepares you for an in-demand field with entry-level salaries of $75,000+. Google Project Management Certificate is valuable across all industries. The CompTIA A+ certification (requires paid exam but free study materials available) is the industry standard for entry-level IT. Per Scholas offers completely free in-person training for these certifications in 20+ cities.
How to Access Free Courses
Start with what is truly free. Khan Academy is always 100% free. Coursera and edX allow you to audit most courses for free -- you can access all lectures and materials, but you do not receive a certificate. If you need the certificate, both platforms offer financial aid that covers the full cost. Google Career Certificates are $49/month on Coursera but financial aid is available. Per Scholas offers completely free in-person IT training. Microsoft Learn provides free interactive training. Check your local library for free access to LinkedIn Learning. Many workforce development offices and American Job Centers also provide free access to online learning platforms as part of their services.
Building a Learning Plan
Choose one path and focus on it. Trying to learn everything at once leads to completing nothing. If you are interested in IT, start with the Google IT Support Certificate or Per Scholas free training. If you want to work with data, try the Google Data Analytics Certificate. If you want a creative career, explore Google UX Design. If you need foundational skills first, start with Khan Academy for math and reading, then move to career certificates. Set a consistent schedule -- even 30 minutes a day adds up. Most Google Career Certificates take 3-6 months at 10 hours per week. Track your progress and celebrate milestones.
Using Your Library Card for Free Education
Your local public library is one of the best free education resources available. Many libraries offer free access to LinkedIn Learning (16,000+ courses), databases with practice tests and study guides, GED and college prep materials, computer and internet access, quiet study space, and sometimes even free or discounted certification exam vouchers. If you do not have a library card, getting one is free and usually just requires a form of ID and proof of address (which can be a shelter address). Some libraries issue digital-only cards. Ask your local library what online learning resources they provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a computer to take online courses?
- Most courses work on a smartphone or tablet, though a computer makes the experience easier. Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX all have mobile apps. If you need a computer, your local library provides free computer access. Some workforce development offices also offer computer access. Per Scholas provides a laptop to students in their programs if needed.
- Do employers actually value online certificates?
- Yes, especially certificates from well-known organizations. Google Career Certificates are recognized by over 150 hiring partners who consider them equivalent to a four-year degree for relevant roles. CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for entry-level IT jobs. Microsoft certifications are highly valued in IT. The key is choosing certificates that are recognized in your target industry -- certificates from Google, Microsoft, CompTIA, and AWS carry the most weight with employers.
- Can I get a job with just an online certificate?
- Yes, for many entry-level positions. Google reports that 75% of their certificate graduates find a new job or career improvement within six months. IT Support, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and Project Management are fields where certificates can be enough to get hired. Combining a certificate with practical experience (even personal projects or volunteer work) makes you a stronger candidate. These certificates are especially valuable when combined with other life experience and skills.
- Are free courses really as good as paid courses?
- In many cases, yes. Khan Academy is used by millions and is completely free. The content in Coursera and edX audit mode is the same as the paid version -- you just do not get a graded certificate. Google Career Certificates are created by Google employees who do the same work. Per Scholas has been providing free IT training for over 25 years with strong employment outcomes. The quality of free education available today is unprecedented.
- Do online courses require a background check?
- No. Online learning platforms like Coursera, edX, Khan Academy, Google, and Microsoft Learn do not conduct background checks. Anyone can sign up and start learning. Your criminal record does not affect your ability to earn online certifications. Note that when you apply for jobs using these certifications, employers may still conduct their own background checks.
- How do I get financial aid on Coursera?
- On the Coursera course or certificate page, click 'Financial Aid Available' (below the enroll button). Fill out a short application explaining your financial situation. Approval typically takes about 15 days. If approved, you get full access to the course and earn a certificate at no cost. Financial aid on Coursera is generous -- most people who apply are approved.
- What is the fastest free certification I can earn?
- Google Skillshop certifications (Google Ads, Google Analytics) can be completed in days and are free. LinkedIn Learning certificates of completion can be earned in a few hours per course (free through libraries). Khan Academy does not offer career certificates but provides fast skill-building. For more substantial certifications, the Google Career Certificates take 3-6 months but lead to real job opportunities. Per Scholas IT training takes 12-15 weeks and includes job placement help.
- I do not have internet at home. Where can I take online courses?
- Your local public library offers free WiFi and computer access. Many McDonald's, Starbucks, and other businesses offer free WiFi. Some cities have free public WiFi in parks and public spaces. Community centers, churches, and social service organizations may also offer free internet access. Check our phone and internet guide for information about the Lifeline program, which provides free or discounted phone and internet service for low-income individuals.
Take Action -- Direct Links
- Google Career Certificates
IT Support, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, UX Design, Project Management, and more -- financial aid available
- Per Scholas -- Free IT Training
Completely free, in-person IT training in 20+ cities with job placement support
- Khan Academy
100% free math, science, computing, and more -- great for GED prep and foundational skills
- Coursera
Thousands of courses from top universities -- free to audit, financial aid for certificates
- edX
Founded by Harvard and MIT -- free courses in computer science, data science, and more
- Microsoft Learn
Free training modules for Microsoft technologies, cloud computing, and AI
- Google Skillshop
Free Google certifications in Google Ads, Google Analytics, and other Google tools
- Find Your Local Library
Find your local library for free access to LinkedIn Learning, computers, WiFi, and study materials