Online-only students, compared to their face-to-face peers, are less likely to complete a degree. Many colleges and universities are leaning into online students’ feelings of belonging to promote retention and completion, but leaders at one online campus are focusing on financial incentives. Penn State World Campus, the online arm of Pennsylvania State university, launched the Progressive Scholarship program in 2023. The invite-only program rewards 90 students who engage in best practices with financial aid, up to $7,750 over four years.
