FAQ

Are all of the programs fully online?

Yes, all of the Binghamton’s Exclusively Online programs are fully online, with no on-campus components or required residencies built in. 

Do I need to come to campus for any part of the program?

While most of our degrees can be completed 100% online, some programs may require field education or clinical experience components that must be completed at approved sites within the United States. Contact your department about specific requirements for your program of interest. 

Will classes meet at a specific time?

Many online courses are delivered asynchronously via Brightspace, a software used for online learning and teaching. Asynchronous means you view class lectures on your own schedule and complete assignments within a scheduled time frame. 

Courses for certain programs may be taught synchronously, which requires you to log-in to online lectures at a set time.

How will I turn in assignments and receive grades?

Your instructor will let you know how to turn in assignments and receive grades in the syllabus/course outline. Typically, you will use Brightspace to submit your assignments.

Your instructor's policy for late work will appear in the syllabus; this should also outline the time frame you can expect work to be graded or receive an email response from your instructor. 

In some courses, your grades for individual assignments will be accessible on Brightspace. Your final grade will be recorded on your official academic transcript, accessible through BU Brain.

Can I get financial aid?

Yes, financial aid is available to Exclusively Online students, but the type of aid you may be eligible to receive will depend upon many factors. You may be able to receive grants and scholarships, loans or tax deductions for your tuition and school costs, depending upon your personal situation. Some factors that affect your financial aid status are whether you are a full-time or part-time student. For information regarding financial aid, visit our Financial Aid for Online Programs webpage.

Can international students enroll in an Exclusively Online program?

Students enrolled full time in Exclusively Online programs are not eligible for U.S. student visas. Degree programs that are fully online or that only offer online courses in the first semester are not eligible for I-20 issuance. International students in F-1 or J-1 status are not eligible to enroll in these programs. If you are an international student in a different status in the U.S., or if you plan to engage in an online program from outside the United States, contact the Exclusively Online programs office with questions about your eligibility to enroll.

Can I enroll in an online program from another country? 

While most of our degrees can be completed 100% online, some programs may require field education or clinical experience components that must be completed at approved sites within the United States. Contact your department about specific requirements for your program of interest.

Can I enroll in a Z-prefix course if I am in an on-campus program?

No. Z-prefix courses are exclusively for students enrolled in fully online degree programs.

Can exclusively online program students take on-campus or hybrid courses?

No. Exclusively online students may only enroll in Z-prefix courses.

Can non-degree-seeking students enroll in exclusively online programs?

No. Non-degree-seeking students can only apply as non-matriculated undergraduates or graduates for courses in on-campus programs.

How do I switch from an on-campus program to an exclusively online program?

You must submit a new program application and gain approval to transition. The same applies for switching from an exclusively online program to an on-campus program.

Who monitors compliance with this policy?

Compliance is monitored by program staff and the Registrar’s Office.