<p>I've heard a lot about "virtual" or "distance" learning on college preparation sites and I've also seen a lot of people here involved in them (a lot of people list them in the "What are my Chances?). I know basically zero about them and now seeing some interesting AP courses in that my high school doesn't offer, I'm wondering about them.</p>
<p>Anybody have any info or advice for me? What are "common" online institutions? Are these actually online colleges or what? Are they expensive? I don't know where at all to start.</p>
<p>EPGY <a href="http://epgy.stanford.edu%5B/url%5D">http://epgy.stanford.edu</a> is a good one. I take a lot of my courses there since my high school and local u aren't so great. They offer courses that prepare you for AP English Language and Composition, Physics B, Physics C, Calculus AB, and Calculus BC. Even better, they offer math and physics courses up to advanced undergraduate level.</p>
<p>The program is expensive; course prices typically range from $450 to $700, but the financial aid is surprisingly good.</p>
<p>Many legitimate universities offer courses through "distance learning" or the "virtual classroom". You can earn transferrable college credit this way. There are books that list distance learning programs available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.</p>
<p>By the way, distance learning does not seem like a great way to learn anything. Having a professor is much better. But DL might be the only option for some people.</p>