Frequently Asked Questions

Get your questions answered.

General
What are the major differences between BYU Online and BYU Independent Study?

BYU Online courses are different from BYU Independent Study in four main ways:

  1. BYU Online courses are only available to matriculated BYU students, while BYU Independent Study courses are available to anyone—including high school and middle school students.
  2. BYU Online courses are included in your BYU tuition, while BYU Independent Study courses come at an additional cost.
  3. BYU Online courses follow a semester schedule, while BYU Independent Study courses allow one year for completion.
  4. BYU Online courses have class size limits, while BYU Independent Study has no enrollment caps.
How are online courses formatted?

BYU Online courses use Canvas to provide instructional content, assignments, and quizzes. Each course is designed and verified by our in-house team of instructional designers to yield the most efficient and effective learning experience possible.

How long do I have to complete this course?

BYU Online courses must be completed by the end of the semester. Each course includes assignment deadlines designed to help you complete the course on time. In some courses, you may be able to work ahead.

What is a Checkpoint?

Checkpoints are scheduled meetings between you and your TA to review your progress in the class and answer any questions you may have. Instructions for checkpoints are found in the course.

What materials do I need to complete the course?

In addition to any required textbooks, you will need these items to complete the checkpoints:

  • Webcam—any webcam will work. We recommend using the Logitech HD Webcam C270.
  • Microphone Headset—any microphone headset will work. We recommend using the Cyber Acoustics Universal Stereo Headset AC-204.
Enrollment
What is the difference between BYU Online and BYU Independent Study?

BYU Online

  • Semester-based, university-level online classes
  • Available only to matriculated BYU students
  • Register in MyMap
  • Included in regular tuition (no additional cost)
  • Classes listed by semester

BYU Independent Study

How do I enroll in the online class?

You may enroll in a BYU Online course the same way as you would any other course offered on campus. Using MyMap, find the course you'd like to take, then click "Add" next to the BYU Online section.

When can I sign up/register for my online class?

<p>BYU Online enrollment is under the same schedule as regular campus courses. You can enroll in the online course beginning on your priority registration date as indicated in MyMap.</p>
 

I just got added to the class and didn't receive an email from anyone. Who can I talk to to get additional information about my course?

Please contact your professor with any questions.

What are the prerequisites for online courses?

BYU Online courses are offered to all matriculated BYU Day Continuing students.

How much do online courses cost?

Tuition for online courses is included in the regular semester tuition paid by Day Continuing students.

Is there a waitlist if the course is online?

Course enrollments are capped to ensure a favorable student to TA ratio. Because of this, you may need to join a waitlist to enroll in your chosen course.

Can classes be taken out of state?

Yes. You may even take courses out of the country—perfect for those studying abroad.

Orientation
How do I attend my course's orientation meeting?

<p>Your professor or TA will email you the time and the link to attend your orientation meeting. These meetings take place online in a virtual classroom.</p>
 

Why is there an orientation meeting for an online course?

Your instructor and TA will define course expectations, provide a general course overview, and answer any questions you may have. This meeting also provides an opportunity to meet your professor before you get involved with the course content.

Learning Management System
How do I access my grades on assignments?

Log into Canvas, select your course, and then click on "Grades."

Exams
Where are my course exams administered?

BYU Online exams are administered through Examity (a remote online proctoring system).