Welcome to Zero Tuition College

ZTC is a free website that supports self-directed learners who are purposefully skipping college. We connect students with experienced mentors, with each other, and with inspiring assignments. Students can get involved with Zero Tuition College in three easy steps:

Create a profile.

Sign up and build your community profile.

Pursue assignments.

Build your experience and portfolio with a variety of self-directed projects.

Get support.

Work with a MAGE, participate in the forums, and meet other students at ZTC programs.

We're always looking for mentors, advisors, guides, and experts ("MAGEs") who will support our students in their challenges. MAGEs may either volunteer or offer their services for pay. Learn how to become a MAGE today.


Who is ZTC For?

Students adventuring in Argentina

Zero Tuition College is for learners (ages 16-22 and beyond) who think that full-time college isn't a good fit for them right now. Maybe it's too constraining, too unadventurous, or simply too expensive. And instead of going to college, they're excited to give themselves a higher education through self-directed learning.

Learn more about our vision and reasons to re-consider college.


What Does Self-Directed Learning Look Like?

A student studying on her computer

Self-directed learning is not self-isolated or unstructured learning. It's the philosophy of a student who takes full responsibility for her learning.

Self-directed learners work both alone and in teams; they seek out mentors and coaches; they relish high-quality instruction; and they value both abstract and hands-on knowledge. Unlike other students, however, self-directed learners don't wait for a teacher or class to begin their projects and studies.

Read more about how our students learn.



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© Blake Boles, 2011