Online learning may not be a high school student's only choice these days, but it's still the best option for some. If you're interested in attending high school online, check out this list of the nation's best online high schools. But first, let's look at why it's such an intriguing choice.

Unique Advantages of Studying Online

Online school is more than a substitute for in-person learning. It's a unique education model that lets students choose when, where, and how they study. Here are some of the benefits students and their families love best.

Flexibility for Personal Interests

High school students often have intense extracurricular interests. Elite high school athletes have intense training schedules that make traditional class schedules hard to manage. Performing artists have touring schedules, auditions, or competitions that conflict with the school day. With online school, students can pursue their passions and succeed academically.

Better Employment Opportunities

Getting a job during high school can give you an edge on your college application and prepare you for your future career. Unfortunately, the kinds of jobs you can get with a traditional high school schedule are limited. Online school opens more doors.

Diverse Course Options

Virtual schools can offer courses you might not find at a public school. That's great news for students interested in specialized or advanced topics like computer animation, Chinese languages, or engineering.

Why Parents Choose Online School

Online school offers advantages parents want for their kids.

Personalized Learning

Online education is easier to customize than in-person learning. Students can choose the courseload that works best for them intellectually, emotionally, and physically. In many cases, they can move ahead at their own pace or spend extra time with a topic until they master it. This often results in better learning outcomes.

Fewer Distractions

In-person high school can affect students in ways that frustrate their parents. Online education reduces common social distractions and in-class competitiveness so students can focus.

Emotional Support

Not all students thrive in an in-person learning environment. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can get in the way of success. Online education is often more comfortable for students with these challenges. Plus, many online schools provide targeted support for students in need.

Choosing the Right Online High School

No school is right for everyone. Here are the most important touchpoints to match you or your child with an online high school.

Student Support

Online schools offer different levels of academic, emotional, and social support. Find out what resources are available, including tutoring and counseling, and how students access those services.

Curriculum and Instructional Methods

Online learning isn't just in-person learning with screens. The online environment offers unique opportunities, including virtual collaboration and interactive digital learning methods. Choose a school that makes the most of the virtual format.

Extracurricular Activities

The high school experience goes beyond the classroom. When choosing an online high school, look for one that offers a range of extracurricular activities like clubs, virtual field trips, and performing arts experiences.

What Makes the Best Online High Schools?

At Niche, we know how much the right high school matters. We use the most reliable data and experiences from real students and parents to rank online high schools. Read on to explore some of our top picks.