Side by side
OpenLearn vs Saylor Academy
Both stand on open educational resource platforms. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
Choose OpenLearn if you want free web-based learning for personal interest, future study or to supplement formal learning. Look elsewhere if earning formal qualification credit from a course is essential.
Visit OpenLearn
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Saylor combines a substantial free course catalog with certificates and some pathways to recommended college credit. Course materials are free, but optional proctoring costs extra, and mobile apps do not include every site feature.
Visit Saylor AcademyThe facts
| OpenLearn | Saylor Academy | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Proctored exams: $5, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | open.edu | learn.saylor.org |
| On open educational resource platforms | #15 of 27 | #11 of 27 |
OpenLearn: what it does well
- Nearly 1,000 courses are free to study.
- Courses, articles, quizzes, games, video and audio cover varied subjects.
- Short courses range from 1 to 24 hours.
- Free accounts support enrolment and progress tracking.
- Some courses award a digital badge.
What to know first
- Courses do not carry formal credit toward a qualification.
- Creating an account requires users to be at least 13.
- The website is partially compliant with WCAG 2.2 AA; some legacy images and activities have accessibility issues.
Saylor Academy: what it does well
- 164 free, self-paced courses
- Free completion certificates for passing course exams
- Some courses have ACE credit recommendations
- Some activities are available offline
- Web and Android and iOS apps
What to know first
- Optional proctored credit exams cost $5 per exam session
- Some features and settings are unavailable in the app
- ACE credit requires passing a proctored exam
Alternatives to OpenLearn Alternatives to Saylor Academy The whole list