When you apply to school, you can also apply for financial aid. Talk to a representative about programs available to students in form of financial aid and scholarships. Start process by filling out Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Complete application even if you don't think you will qualify for federal aid. Most other student loan programs use same application. To be able to accept federal financial aid, school must be regionally accredited. Accreditation is a voluntary process and matters mainly for financial aid and transferring credit to other universities. Check with an admissions counselor if you're not sure about accreditation.

Once you have completed all applications and testing, you will find out if you have been accepted into program. Once you have been accepted, you will be eligible to register for classes and begin journey toward your college degree. The admissions counselor at your university can assist you in scheduling your courses. There is often an order in which classes should be taken. Once you have registered, you pay for your classes, get your books and attend orientation, if required.

Interact often with your instructor to get most from course. You can request that instructor look at your schedule and give you feedback on your progress in class. Schedule time to participate in online discussions or group projects your program offers. Some instructors require you to post replies on a message board as part of course. You will be given points for this participation.

As you work your way through course, follow syllabus and study guide carefully. Complete all reading assignments and take complete notes on material you read. Read each chapter when it is assigned. Don't skip reading and try to catch up before exam. Reading six chapters two days before test will result in a lower grade. The same goes for studying. Don't try to study night before an exam. Study and read a little bit each day for best retention.

To do well in distance education courses, you must complete all assignments on time. If you have a hectic schedule, try to complete all papers and assignments early. You won't have to worry about something coming up night before an assignment is due. Working late or having a sick child can throw you off schedule and cause your assignments to be late. Some instructors will give partial credit for late work, while others will give no credit. No instructors give full credit for late work in college.