Here is terrific news for adults who wish to advance their careers by earning an online degree. There are more distance and online education options than ever before.

In fact, approximately 300 colleges and universities offer online degrees. The bad news is that because there are so many choices, prospective students sometimes delay their enrollment while trying to decide which online college or university to attend. If you follow the following suggestions, you won’t get stuck in that trap.

1. Start with a little online research. Put together a list of at least 5-6 fully accredited colleges and universities which award the degree you wish to earn.

2. Visit the website of each college and read them critically. Delete from your initial list any college which does not appeal to you.

3. Request an introductory brochure, an admissions application, and other informational materials from the colleges and universities in which you are most interested. Although you may call the colleges, filling out an online information request form will probably be faster.

4. Prepare a list of questions. In most instances, the colleges will call you. If not, call and ask to speak with an admissions representative.

5. Be sure to question your admissions representative about academic support services, job placement assistance, financial aid, academic counseling, and any other concerns you may have.

6. Apply for admission to the colleges with which you are most impressed. Be aware of deadlines.

7. Fill out the online FAFSA (Free Federal Financial Aid Form) and list on it the colleges to which you have applied. If you are not sure how to answer some of the FAFSA questions, do not guess, as making mistakes can make the financial aid process more difficult than it needs to be. Instead of risking a guess, ask one of your admissions representatives for assistance.

It is not difficult to select an online college or university which will help you achieve your professional goals. Neither is it hard to apply for financial aid. Just follow the tips above, ask for help if you need it, and don’t rush to judgment. It’s really that simple.