Side by side
Formative vs WeBWorK
Both stand on automated grading software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
Formative combines interactive lessons, assessments, and live response data for K–12 learning. Its free plan makes it possible to start without a listed subscription charge, while paid plans add options for classrooms and schools.
Visit Formative Free plan APILinuxSelf-hosted+1
Math and science instructors seeking free homework software with an extensive shared problem library and LMS connections should consider WeBWorK. Institutions without a hosting arrangement or administrative support should weigh the installation and maintenance responsibilities before choosing it.
Visit WeBWorKThe facts
| Formative | WeBWorK | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | API, Linux, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Classroom Plan: $20.75 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | formative.com | openwebwork.org |
| On automated grading software | #15 of 33 | #19 of 33 |
Formative: what it does well
- Live student responses support in-lesson adjustments.
- Luna AI creates activities from prompts and documents.
- Offers more than 20 question types.
- Integrates with major LMS/SIS platforms.
- Free plan and 14-day trial are listed.
What to know first
- Requires a modern browser and stable high-speed internet.
- Paid plans start at $20.75/mo billed annually.
WeBWorK: what it does well
- Free open-source online homework system.
- Students get immediate feedback and multiple attempts.
- Open Problem Library has more than 35,000 shared problems.
- Supports LTI 1.1 and 1.3 LMS integrations.
- Authentication supports LTI, SAML2, and WeBWorK-managed accounts.
What to know first
- Institutional administrators may need to install and update it.
- Hosting routes and their prices vary.
- SOAP handler is unmaintained and may present security vulnerabilities if enabled.
Alternatives to Formative Alternatives to WeBWorK The whole list