Photo: Online student engaged in class
Researching online degree programs can sometimes feel like learning a different language. Between admissions requirements, course formats, and academic abbreviations, it’s easy to run into terms that colleges use every day that may be unfamiliar if you’ve been out of school for a while or brand new if you’ve never attended college before.
Here are some of the most common higher education terms you’re likely to encounter while comparing online programs and preparing to apply.
Terms You May See When Comparing Online Programs
One of the first things you’ll notice is that online programs can be structured differently depending on how classes are delivered.
Asynchronous courses let you complete coursework on your own schedule within weekly deadlines. There are usually no required live class sessions.
Synchronous courses include scheduled live meetings, often through video conferencing platforms, where students attend class in real time.
Some online programs also combine asynchronous and synchronous learning, giving students a mix of self-paced coursework and live online interaction.
You may also see programs described as hybrid or low-residency. These terms refer to the program’s format rather than how online classes are delivered:
- Hybrid programs combine online learning with regular in-person class meetings or campus attendance.
- Low-residency programs are primarily online but include rare in-person experiences, such as weekend residencies or annual campus visits.
While reviewing program schedules and admissions materials, you might also encounter semester abbreviations like:
- FA = Fall
- SP = Spring
- SU = Summer
For example, a listing like FA 26 translates to a Fall 2026 entry term. It may seem like common sense, but among a sea of acronyms, things can get confusing.
Common Financial Aid Terminology
As you move from researching programs to preparing an application, you’ll likely encounter terms surrounding financial aid.
The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Many colleges use FAFSA information when evaluating financial aid packages, so completing it can be an important step even if you are unsure whether you qualify for aid.
Terms Relevant to Undergraduate Programs
If you’re researching undergraduate degrees, you may come across terms related to general coursework requirements.
GEFs, or General Education Foundations, are broad foundational courses required in many undergraduate programs. These classes often include subjects like writing, math, science, or social science coursework completed alongside your major-specific classes.
You may also see the word prerequisites, which refers to courses, experience, or qualifications required before enrolling in a program or taking a specific course.
There will also be references to credit hours, which colleges use to measure coursework and track progress toward graduation.
Some graduate programs may require standardized exams as part of the admissions process, including the:
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
These exams are used to evaluate skills related to graduate-level study, though not every program requires them. Requirements can vary widely depending on the degree, institution, and field of study, so it’s important to review each program’s admissions criteria carefully.
You may also encounter terms like statement of purpose or letters of recommendation, which are common application materials for graduate programs. These help admissions teams evaluate an applicant’s academic background, professional experience, and goals for pursuing an advanced degree.
Why Understanding These Terms Matters
Knowing a few common higher education terms can make researching online programs feel more manageable. Instead of trying to decode unfamiliar language, you can focus on evaluating whether a program fits your schedule, goals, and learning preferences.
We understand this is not an exhaustive list of terms you may run into, so we’re here to help. If you’re looking to start a program, start by exploring WVU’s available online programs that align with your goals. If you have questions along the way, connect with the WVU Online team who can help you through the process and point you in the direction that works best for you.