How to Start an Online School: 2025 Guide

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

In recent years, digital technology has revolutionized how we approach education, giving rise to online schools. From flexible scheduling and personalized learning experiences to global connectivity, online schooling has become a powerful educational platform.

Establishing an online school is great, whether you are an entrepreneur or want to learn how to start an online school to add to your professional portfolio. As more and more students transition to online learning platforms, the global e-learning industry is expected to reach a valuation of $1 trillion by 2032 (Global Market Insights, 2023).

If you are still unsure about what is e-learning, our researchers will assist you as you delve into the fundamental steps and considerations involved in establishing a thriving online teaching platform. In this comprehensive guide, you will also learn some effective methods for online teaching that you can use as a beginner online educator.

How to Start an Online School Table of Contents

How do I create an online teaching platform?
Learning How to Start an Online School
What is the best platform for online classes?
How can I measure and continuously improve the performance of my online school?
Effective Methods in Online Teaching
How can I build an effective student support system to foster digital engagement?
How can emerging technologies revolutionize my online school's teaching methods?
How can I design an adaptive curriculum for diverse learners?
What legal and financial considerations are involved in starting an online school?
How can I achieve accreditation and ensure quality standards for my online school?
How can I build strategic academic partnerships to expand my online school's reach?
How can I build strong academic leadership to drive online school success?

How do I create an online teaching platform?

Creating an online teaching platform requires careful planning and implementation. That is why the most important thing you should do is define your goals. You will also need to learn how to conduct market research to determine your market’s demand for an online school. This ensures that your time and money will get the best return on investment.

Another thing to consider if you want to learn how to start an online school is the educational trends online that are affected by technology. This will help you stay updated on industry developments and remain competitive in meeting the needs of your students and other learning instructors.

So how does online school work? In the sections below, we will answer that and provide more comprehensive steps to create a successful platform, including setting up your digital tools. However, the most important thing to remember is that online teaching requires continuous improvement based on students’ feedback.

Can I teach online with my phone?

Yes, you can teach online using your phone. There are several ways to do this, and with the advancement of technology and mobile applications, this teaching method is becoming more accessible. Today, you can easily teach online with the help of training videos software, learning management systems (LMS), and interactive assessments. Because of the demand for online teaching systems that are more convenient, the corporate e-learning market is expected to be worth around $450 billion by 2026 (Report Linker, 2021).

Learning How to Start an Online School

Setting up an online schooling program means finding the most suitable teaching platform that you can use to conduct your classes. Aside from familiarizing yourself with the digital tools and LMS systems, you must streamline the process, from creating your course outline to launching the online teaching platform.

Virtual learning communities transcend the traditional settings of schooling. That is why the process for setting up an online learning academy is slightly different from traditional ones. In this section, we will guide you through learning how to start an online school, providing everything you need to know to make it a success.

Choose your niche.

The first thing you should do is find something in which you are confident that you are an expert. If you have difficulty figuring this out, ask yourself, “What am I qualified to teach?". You do not necessarily need a degree in a particular field; you just need to excel at it. This can be a hobby you have learned over the years or something already aligned with your career.

Create your course outline.

When you are already an expert on the topic you want to teach, knowing the courses you should offer will come naturally to you. That is why it is important to only pick a topic in which you have solid knowledge beyond just the foundations. When creating a course outline, include the course title and objectives, learning outcomes, and the learning methods you want to incorporate.

Choose the online teaching platform.

There are many online learning platforms that are available for everyone, and it is only a matter of what you find most convenient and accessible to use. The use of online teaching platforms has allowed educators from all over the world to have real-time collaboration and create interactive content for their students.

In the U.S., there were 2.4 million students in 2019 and 7 million graduate students in 2020 who were exclusively enrolled in distance education courses. Additionally, one million graduate students in 2019 and 1.6 million postgraduate students in 2020 exclusively took distance education courses (NCES, 2022).

Decide on your branding.

Whether establishing an online private elementary school or just wanting to create a crash course on a specific topic, you must define your branding. Branding is vital in creating a unique identity for your platform and connecting with your target audience. Here are some of the key aspects you need to consider:

Mission and values
Name and logo
Visual identity
Consistency and unique selling point
Target audience

Set up digital tools for analytics.

Like any business, you will need tools to manage your online school, especially repetitive tasks. Aside from the teaching software used by educators, you will need to set up digital tools for your e-learning program to improve productivity.

These tools will handle email and affiliate marketing, analytics, and general marketing to attract more students to enroll in your program. You can also start setting up the enrollment process for new students during this step through automated emails.

Upload and organize your learning materials.

After setting up your digital tools and familiarizing yourself with the general marketing processes, you can now upload and organize your learning materials. Ensure that your teaching platform and the software are accessible to your potential students. You may also consider using a training management system open source. Some examples of the content you should prepare when learning how to start an online school are:

Interactive webinars
Recorded videos
Digital reading materials, i.e., ebooks and PDFs

Once your learning materials are uploaded, you can use digital tools to automate tasks, such as setting up an automated email reminder for the students’ homework. This will help you reduce your workload and ensure your students stay engaged throughout the course. For online schools with a few staff, the employee onboarding process will cover this step.

Launch your online teaching platform.

Once you have organized the flow of your classes and the learning materials, you can set a date to launch your distance learning school. Before you go live, you can test your online learning management system by doing a test run with a few people. After ensuring that everything is in order and there are no problems with your course materials, your online school can go live.

Execute marketing to attract more students.

The final step in learning how to start an online school is to execute your marketing plan to keep enrollment going. Even though you are passionate about sharing your knowledge, you should also keep in mind that you are running a business. Adopting a market strategy will help you grow your number of students and sell the online learning materials that you make.

Your marketing strategy should also encourage students to share social media reviews to boost engagement for your online school. It will also help to hone your CRM skills to improve through feedback. This way, you can upsell your customers and create unique offers that cater to their needs.

What is the best platform for online classes?

When choosing the best platform for your online homeschool programs, consider their features and functionalities, as well as the learning management system cost. Being familiar with online platforms for classes is essential since studies have found that 73% of students now prefer courses that are entirely online compared to traditional classroom settings (Cengage, 2021).

Our research team has compiled a short but comprehensive list of the best online learning platforms, including some valuable insights about the benefits of LMS, its interactive features, and accessibility.

Platform name: Skillshare

Being an educator on this platform will allow you to create projects, video lessons, and teach classes easily. The great thing about this platform is that it is accessible worldwide for students while offering unlimited access to classes and offline viewing.

Fees: Free trial for one month for new students; requires monthly or annual membership.

Starter: $159/year
Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote.
Revive: Contact sales for a custom quote.

Platform name: Udemy Business

Udemy Business is another popular e-learning platform, with over 14,000 courses on various topics. This is great if you want to focus on skill-based training courses or are an expert instructor looking to reach a larger audience. It will also allow you to track students’ progress, analyze data, and give completion certificates.

Fees: Has an annual free

Team: $360/year
Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote.

Platform name: Coursera

Coursera is a popular online schooling for high school students and individuals keen on specializations and certificates from some of the most prestigious academic institutions worldwide. This platform best suits educators who want to earn more while teaching and are affiliated with an accredited institution.

Fees: There is a monthly or annual fee.

Single learning program: $49 to $79/month
Coursera Plus Annual: $59/month
Coursera Plus Monthly: $399/year

Platform name: edX

Another online learning platform that offers courses from first-class institutions is edX. The platform currently offers over 3,000 courses on a wide range of topics and is used by many who want to learn how to start an online school. The downside is that if you plan to launch a learning program on edX but are not affiliated with their partner institutions, it might be challenging to sell your course here.

Fees: edX offers free limited courses.

Verified track: $50 to $300
Master’s degree: $10,000 to $25,000
edX for Business: $349/year

Platform name: LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning will suit you best if you are a subject matter expert (SME) in business, creative, or technology and have excellent presentation skills. They even give out completion certificates that students can share on their LinkedIn profiles. However, to be an instructor on this platform, you must prove you are an SME.

Fees: Requires a monthly or annual plan for an all-access pass.

Annual: $26.99/month
Monthly: $39.99/month

How can I measure and continuously improve the performance of my online school?

To ensure your online school remains effective and competitive, establish clear performance indicators that monitor student outcomes, course engagement, and instructor effectiveness. Implement comprehensive analytics tools to track metrics such as student retention, course completion rates, and satisfaction scores. Regularly collect and analyze feedback through surveys and performance reviews to identify opportunities for curriculum enhancement and teaching adjustments. Additionally, benchmark your teaching practices against industry standards and pursue advanced educational leadership credentials—consider an online EdD program—to strengthen administrative and pedagogical strategies. This systematic approach not only supports continuous learning improvements but also fosters an environment of accountability and excellence.

Effective Methods in Online Teaching

Aside from convenience, many students now prefer online schooling since it is more affordable than traditional in-person classes. The average cost of a private institution is $129,800 for an in-person degree, while an online degree of the same will only cost $60,593 on average (Education Data Initiative, 2022).

However, there is not much difference between the tuition cost of an online degree and a traditional in-person degree from a public institution. For an online degree from a public school, you can expect to spend around $38,496, while a traditional degree costs around $37,500 (Education Data Initiative, 2022).

Despite the tuition costs for an online degree and a traditional degree not varying too much, the miscellaneous fees drive up the cost of a traditional degree. These fees include transportation, books, and campus maintenance. On the other hand, online degrees can be acquired from the comfort of your home with a reasonable computer and internet subscription investment.

Whether you are running an online private school or offering short courses for individuals who want to amp up their skills, knowing which teaching methods are effective is crucial. When it comes to online teaching, you need to be up-to-date on statistics on online education as well as find new ways to maintain student engagement.

To give you more insight, here are some of the most effective methods you can incorporate into online teaching:

Promote healthy group discussions.

Active participation and collaboration among students ensure meaningful conversations and thought-provoking questions in your class. As someone learning how to start an online school, you should understand the importance of facilitating group discussions for a more productive exchange of ideas.

Use screen recording.

When learning how to start an online school, you should know when to use screen recording tools to create instructional videos and demonstrate complex concepts. Screen recording will allow you to narrate as you capture your screen, making organizing your discussion easier. This will also allow the students to review and follow along at their own pace.

Incorporate AI for improving teaching techniques.

Nowadays, you can now use AI to lessen your workload and automate repetitive tasks when learning how to start an online school. There are also AI platforms that can enhance your teaching techniques and provide adaptive learning experiences based on an individual’s needs.

Experiment with graphic presentations.

You should also learn to incorporate visually appealing graphics and multimedia elements into your courses. Delivering content or infographics in a more visually engaging manner will enhance the students’ retention and help reinforce learning. This is why multimedia presentations are considered a must for effective teaching.

How can I build an effective student support system to foster digital engagement?

Establishing a responsive and comprehensive student support system is vital for ensuring high retention rates and quality learning experiences in an online school. Develop dedicated channels for technical assistance, academic advising, and mental well-being to address students’ concerns promptly. Integrate intuitive chatbots and live help desks within your learning management system to provide real-time responses, while also leveraging community forums and structured FAQs to reduce resolution times. In addition, align support services with data-driven analytics to continually optimize FAQ content, response accuracy, and digital accessibility. This approach not only enhances overall student satisfaction but also reinforces the institution’s commitment to innovative educational methodologies seen, for example, in programs like an affordable library science degree online.

How can emerging technologies revolutionize my online school's teaching methods?

Integrating emerging technologies can transform learning experiences by providing personalized, data-driven insights and immersive content delivery. Advanced tools such as AI-driven analytics, virtual reality simulations, and adaptive learning platforms enable more responsive instruction and real-time feedback. These innovations help streamline complex administrative processes while fostering engaging, interactive classrooms that enhance student outcomes. Additionally, exploring advanced academic credentials, such as the best PhD in higher education, can equip leaders with the expertise required to implement these cutting‐edge solutions effectively.

How can I design an adaptive curriculum for diverse learners?

To develop an adaptive curriculum, begin by aligning course content with clearly defined learning outcomes that address a variety of learner profiles. Implement modular designs and flexible learning paths that allow for continuous updates based on real-time feedback and performance metrics. Use data analytics to identify content gaps and adjust teaching methods accordingly, while integrating interactive elements that cater to diverse learning styles. Consider collaborating with academic experts and exploring frameworks offered by affordable online doctorate programs in educational leadership to refine pedagogical strategies.

What legal and financial considerations are involved in starting an online school?

Starting an online school involves addressing several legal and financial factors to ensure its legitimacy and sustainability. Here are the key considerations:

Legal Structure and Accreditation: The right legal structure, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, is crucial for tax and liability purposes. While not always required, accreditation can improve your school's credibility. Research the relevant accreditation bodies and apply when your institution meets the necessary standards.
Intellectual Property Protection: Protecting your educational materials, including courses, videos, and worksheets, is essential. Consider copyrighting your work and understanding fair use policies to prevent unauthorized distribution. Consulting with an intellectual property attorney can help you safeguard your content effectively.
Compliance with Local and International Laws: Data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, FERPA) and consumer protection regulations are essential. If you enroll international students, be sure to understand the legal requirements in their countries. Meeting these regulations helps avoid legal risks and ensures your school operates smoothly across borders.
Financial Planning and Tuition Structures: Establish a solid financial model by determining tuition fees, whether through subscriptions, one-time payments, or per-course charges. You should also budget for operational costs like software, instructors, marketing, and platform maintenance. Competitive yet sustainable pricing is key to long-term success.
Tax Obligations and Reporting: Ensure you understand tax obligations related to your online school, including sales and business taxes. If you hire staff, you must also handle payroll taxes and employment laws. Working with a tax professional can help you navigate these requirements and keep accurate records.

How can I achieve accreditation and ensure quality standards for my online school?

Obtaining accreditation elevates your online school’s credibility by ensuring adherence to recognized educational benchmarks. Begin by partnering with established accrediting bodies and developing clear academic policies that reflect current education standards. Utilize data-driven assessment methods and systematic feedback mechanisms to continuously evaluate curriculum effectiveness and student outcomes. Consider aligning your program costs competitively by reviewing options such as cheapest online graduate certificate programs to maintain both affordability and quality. Implement regular internal audits and compliance reviews to sustain academic excellence and solidify stakeholder trust.

How can I build strategic academic partnerships to expand my online school's reach?

Establishing mutually beneficial partnerships with academic institutions and industry experts can enhance both curriculum quality and the reputation of your online school. Consider engaging in joint programs, co-branded certifications, and shared research initiatives that not only diversify course offerings but also validate your institution’s academic rigor. A strategic alliance with recognized education networks can provide access to emerging trends and innovative teaching methodologies without the need to continually develop every component internally. Aligning your course offerings with top online degree programs further reinforces your commitment to excellence and helps prospective students make an informed enrollment decision.

How can I build strong academic leadership to drive online school success?

A well-structured leadership strategy is essential for cultivating a culture of excellence and innovation in your online school. Invest in targeted professional development programs that equip your educators with necessary skills in digital pedagogy, modern classroom management, and effective communication. Establish mentorship initiatives and structured feedback systems to nurture emerging leaders within your institution. Additionally, consider advanced academic credentials to refine leadership practices and strategic decision-making. For example, exploring leadership doctoral programs online can provide valuable insights and frameworks to drive sustainable growth in a competitive digital education landscape.

Is learning how to start an online school worth it?

With the rising prominence of e-learning, it is crucial to understand what e-learning is and its potential for transforming education. The shift towards online education presents numerous advantages for learners and educators, such as flexibility, accessibility, and personalized learning experiences.

The journey of learning how to start an online school can be worth the effort and investment. While it requires careful planning, technological implementation, and continuous adaptation, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Moreover, the online school model allows for scalability, enabling you to reach a wider audience and impact students’ lives.

Key Insights

Global E-learning Market Growth: The e-learning industry is projected to reach a valuation of $1 trillion by 2032, reflecting the growing demand and transition to online education platforms.
Flexible and Personalized Learning: Online schools offer flexible scheduling and personalized learning experiences, making education more accessible to diverse student populations.
Steps to Establish an Online School: Key steps include choosing a niche, creating a course outline, selecting an online teaching platform, deciding on branding, setting up digital tools, organizing learning materials, launching the platform, and executing marketing strategies.
Effective Teaching Methods: Successful online teaching involves promoting group discussions, using screen recording tools, incorporating AI to enhance teaching techniques, and using graphic presentations to engage students.
Platform Selection: Various platforms like Skillshare, Udemy Business, Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer unique features suited to different types of online education, from skill-based training to accredited institution partnerships.
Cost Benefits: Online degrees are generally more affordable than traditional in-person degrees due to lower miscellaneous fees, though tuition costs can be similar.

FAQ

What are the benefits of starting an online school?

Starting an online school offers numerous benefits, including flexible scheduling, the ability to reach a global audience, lower overhead costs compared to traditional schools, and the opportunity to provide personalized learning experiences.

What are the initial steps to start an online school?

The initial steps to start an online school include defining your goals, conducting market research to understand demand, choosing a niche you are knowledgeable in, and creating a comprehensive course outline.

What are the best platforms for online teaching?

Some of the best platforms for online teaching include Skillshare, Udemy Business, Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning. Each platform offers different features, such as interactive content creation, student progress tracking, and accreditation opportunities.

How do I create engaging content for my online courses?

To create engaging content, incorporate multimedia elements such as videos and infographics, use screen recording tools for instructional videos, promote active participation through group discussions, and leverage AI to personalize learning experiences.

Can I run an online school using only a mobile phone?

Yes, it is possible to teach online using a mobile phone. With advancements in mobile technology and applications, educators can use tools like training video software, learning management systems (LMS), and interactive assessments to conduct classes effectively.

How important is branding for an online school?

Branding is crucial for creating a unique identity for your online school. It helps in connecting with your target audience and distinguishing your platform from competitors. Key aspects include defining your mission and values, creating a memorable name and logo, and maintaining visual consistency.

What digital tools are essential for managing an online school?

Essential digital tools for managing an online school include learning management systems (LMS), email marketing tools, analytics software, and general marketing tools. These tools help automate repetitive tasks, manage student enrollments, and track the performance of your courses.

How do I attract students to enroll in my online school?

To attract students, execute a robust marketing strategy that includes social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and encouraging satisfied students to share reviews. Engaging content and positive testimonials can significantly boost enrollment.

What are the costs associated with setting up an online school?

The costs can vary depending on the platform you choose, the tools and software required, and marketing expenses. Platforms like Coursera and edX have varying fees, while Skillshare and Udemy Business offer different pricing tiers. Additionally, investing in quality content creation tools and marketing strategies will incur costs.

Is it worth the effort to start an online school?

Yes, starting an online school can be worth the effort and investment. It offers scalability, allowing you to reach a wider audience and make a significant impact on students' lives. The flexibility, accessibility, and potential for personalized learning experiences make it a viable and rewarding endeavor in the evolving education landscape.

References: