University of the People Reviews 

2,392
TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

4.3

While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more

To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more

Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Evaluating 169 reviews, reviewers had a great experience with this company. Customers widely praise the exceptional flexibility of online study, which allows them to balance education with work and personal life, making quality learning accessible globally. People frequently highlight the affordability, including tuition-free options and scholarships, effectively removing financial barriers to higher education. The education is consistently described as high-quality, rigorous, and well-structured, with practical assignments and supportive, accessible staff and instructors. However, some customers also noted discrepancies regarding advertised "free" education, encountering unexpected fees for enrollment or courses. A few other people also felt that there were issues with staff and advisors, mentioning frequent changes or outdated approaches.

What people talk about most

User experience

Clients share positive opinions on user experience, highlighting the flexibility of the online learning... See more

Staff

People report positive experiences with staff, highlighting that professors are consistently pleasant,... See more

Price

Reviewers mention positive feedback about price, highlighting the affordability and accessibility of... See more

Quality

Customers consistently note positive experiences with quality, highlighting the rigorous, relevant, and... See more

Value for money

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of value for money, consistently praising the affordability and... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

I graduated with University of the People with a bachelor's degree in Health Science in late 2024. The reason I gave 4 stars is that when you need help from your school counselor, it takes time before... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

It is beginner friendly and show how to set up for your studies. They are consistent and patient in how they handle clients. They always provide confirmation emails and updates. It is an open platf... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

“UoPeople is my comeback story. After years of thinking higher education was out of reach, UoPeople gave me a second chance to follow my dreams. The flexibility of online study has helped me balance... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

With 150,000 students globally, being part of this University has given me a purpose in life. It is online, yes; however, one should not take that lightly. Rigorous work and friendly peers and instruc... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. Educational Institution
  2. Adult Education School
  3. Distance Learning Center
  4. Non-Profit Organization
  5. School

Written by the company

University of the People is an American non-profit distance education institution of higher education that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees.


Contact info

4.3

Excellent

TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

2K reviews

5-star
4-star
3-star
2-star
1-star

Asks customers to review

This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative

Replied to 96% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 1 week

How this company uses Trustpilot

See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.

4.3

All reviews

(2,392)

159 reviews in the last 12 months

Write a review
Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I completed my Bachelor of Computer…

I completed my Bachelor of Computer Science at University of the People while working full-time night shifts in aged care, and it was the only realistic path to a degree for me. Everything is 100% online and asynchronous, so I could study around my roster instead of the other way around.
The coursework is practical and genuinely useful — programming, databases, data mining, and machine learning — and studying with classmates from all over the world was an unexpected bonus. Best of all, it's tuition-free with only small assessment fees per course, so I'm graduating completely debt-free with a strong GPA.
Be aware that it requires real self-discipline — there are no live lectures and support is mostly asynchronous. But if you can manage your own time, the value is unbeatable. I'm now using this degree as a stepping stone to postgraduate study.
Highly recommended for working adults, migrants, and anyone who needs education to fit around real life.

12 July 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A long journey to college graduation

My experience was great because I was a college dropout for 15 years before finding UoPeople. They gave me hope to complete my college studies, which I started in 2002. I joined as transfer student and I was able to graduate with with B.S. in Business Administration. That degree is helping me on a daily basis, in m both my social and for-profit entrepreneurship endeavors.Thank you, UoPeople.

11 July 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Not worth it anymore with the updated fees

They keep raising up fees for assessments with the excuse of "higher logistic costs". But the infrastructure is ridicolous in 2026, the website cannot even bear the load, countless bugs. Not to talk about the didactic material which is almost entirely recycled stuff you can easily find for free on the Web and also is very outdated (some "video lessons" of CS Bachelor Degree are more than 15 years old... in a field where every day new and better stuff comes up). I would even pay higher fees gladly but I want to see higher quality.

6 July 2026
Unprompted review
University of the People logo

Reply from University of the People

We're sorry to hear that your experience hasn't met your expectations, Osvaldo.

As a WASC-accredited American university, our courses and academic programs undergo rigorous academic oversight and continuous review to ensure they meet established quality standards.

If you've encountered any specific technical issues, we'd appreciate the opportunity to look into them. Please reach out to us at info@uopeople.edu with the relevant details so we can investigate and share your feedback with the appropriate teams.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Virtual schooling that meets requirements

As a student at the University of the People, I can confidently say discovering this institute was a treasure find. Considering I had a plethora of responsibilities and was a bit rusty as it had being some time that I had been in an academic setting, I find them very refreshing and a great next steps to get myself the much needed degree I applied for.

29 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A challenging but deeply rewarding…

A challenging but deeply rewarding growth journey

My experience at the university has been incredibly rewarding, though it demanded a lot of dedication and hard work. What I truly appreciated was the high quality of the academic program, especially the technical courses, which provided me with practical and valuable skills. Balancing my studies with a demanding job was a major challenge, but the environment and the support from peers helped me push through and keep up during the most stressful times.
If there is room for improvement, I would say that the coordination between work-study schedules and some administrative processes could be smoother to better support working students. Overall, it has been a profound journey of personal and professional growth that prepared me well for the future.

29 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Flexible and Inexpensive

Flexibility for doing my coursework is great since I work full time and have a family. No tuition is an incredible value for a full online accredited degree. I highly recommend UoPeople.

3 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 4 out of 5 stars

I graduated with University of the…

I graduated with University of the People with a bachelor's degree in Health Science in late 2024. The reason I gave 4 stars is that when you need help from your school counselor, it takes time before they can actually respond to your need. Going to groups via Whatsapp or Facebook would be faster to get your answer. But overall, I got to travel while I was studying which was a BIG PLUS for me. I didn't need to go to a physical school to finish up my degree

26 June 2025
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Perfect University for my needs

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Truly Accessible and Supportive University Experience**

University of the People has been an incredible fit for me, especially as someone who needed a flexible and affordable path to higher education. One of the biggest advantages is the cost—UoPeople makes earning a degree genuinely attainable without the overwhelming financial burden that usually comes with college. The tuition-free model, paired with low assessment fees, removes so many barriers that keep people from pursuing their goals.

The professors have been consistently pleasant, encouraging, and invested in student success. Even though the courses are online, I’ve felt supported every step of the way. They provide thoughtful feedback, respond quickly, and create a learning environment that feels both structured and welcoming.

I also appreciate that UoPeople is **accredited**, which gives me confidence in the value of the degree I’m working toward. The curriculum is well-organized, relevant, and designed to build real-world skills. Each course feels purposeful, and the weekly assignments keep me engaged without being overwhelming.

If you’re looking for an affordable, accredited, and genuinely supportive online university, University of the People is absolutely worth considering. It’s opened doors for me that I didn’t think were possible.

25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I joined University of the People…

I joined University of the People looking for a flexible, budget friendly way to complete my Bachelors degree while also raising a family. I couldn’t be happier with my studies, the flexibility, the cost and the support that is supplied. It is truly learn at your own pace!

25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Proud to Be a UoPeople Student

I've had such a positive experience with University of the People. Transferring my community college credits was incredibly easy, and from the very beginning the process has been smooth and straightforward.

One of the things I've appreciated most is how responsive everyone has been. Whenever I've had a question, I've received helpful answers quickly, and I've always felt supported throughout my time as a student.

I also love learning alongside such a diverse student population. Hearing perspectives from classmates all over the world has added so much to the learning experience. I've had great professors who genuinely care about student success, and every course has reinforced that I made the right decision.

What stands out most to me is how accessible University of the People makes higher education. I truly believe this is the kind of model that can help make earning a degree possible for people who might not otherwise have the opportunity. It's exciting to see the university continuing to expand its programs and innovate while keeping education affordable.

Overall, I couldn't be happier with my decision to attend University of the People. I'm proud to be a student here, and I'm looking forward to finishing my degree and becoming a UoPeople graduate.

24 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Being a student while working full time…

Being a student while working full time can be so challenging especially if you are attending on campus or even online.

The University of the People gives a different approach to online education. For me it’s been a rewarding experience. My learning path is flexible which allows me to work full time and do my studies on my time away from work. The classes are structured so that you know what is expected for that week. You can plan ahead and keep on a learning path that is easy to follow.

The one thing that really is surprising is the quality of education from a credited school at a very reasonable cost. Free online books and a library with so much information.
I highly recommend University of the People for your degree program. Best choice I have ever made.

25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Exceptional MBA Experience: Quality and Accessibility at UoPeople

As a recent graduate of the MBA program at the University of the People, I am incredibly impressed with the quality and accessibility of the education provided. The curriculum is rigorous, relevant, and designed for real-world application. What stands out most is the supportive global community and the flexibility the online platform offers, making high-quality higher education reachable for everyone. The instructors are knowledgeable and provide constructive feedback. I highly recommend UoPeople to any prospective student looking for a professional and life-changing academic journey.

25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Studying at the University of the…

Studying at the University of the People has been a flexible and valuable experience for me. The online format allows me to balance my studies with other responsibilities, especially work and family commitments. The course materials are well structured and easy to follow, and the learning platform is accessible from anywhere. I appreciate the support from instructors and classmates through discussion forums, which helps create a sense of community even in an online environment. While self-discipline is important, the university provides the tools needed to succeed. Overall, it has been positive academic journey that supports my personal and professional growth.

25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Is the University of the People using the IBM SkillsBuild Online Certificate Programs as a way to deceive students and charge an account creation?

This is my current situation, I paid the application with them after seeing those adds about the free certificates and the course is not available to me.
When creating a new account, the "Program Requested" field in the form, only shows three options:
-2 Years -Associate Degree (AS)
-4 Years- Bachelors Degree (BS)
-Master Degree

If you are like me, and you select one of those hoping to update it later, that would not ever be possible, nor manually or contacting Admissions.

Edit: I'm glad that after my review they were able to correct this in two days, after I had been writing to support for months. I would have added the screenshot here if it had been possible, to make this review I created a new account using incognito with a different email and also provided different values in the form fields, so I can confirm that it was a bug.

22 June 2026
Unprompted review
University of the People logo

Reply from University of the People

Hi Lorena! We can confirm that the IBM SkillsBuild Certificate Program option is currently available on the application page: https://apply.uopeople.edu/

You may have already paid the application fee for a degree program, which is why the IBM SkillsBuild option is no longer visible in your current application.

If you are interested in the IBM SkillsBuild Certificate Program, you can create a new application and select the IBM program option during the application process or email us directly at info@uopeople.edu, and a member of our Admissions team will be happy to assist you.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

This education helped me get a better job

This is an update to another review I left a while ago and only after posting I was made aware I already reviewed them.

I have been a part-time student with University of the People for over four years. Yes, that may sound like a long time, but it allowed me to keep working while studying during the limited free time I had. One step at a time, I was able to earn my Associate’s degree last year, and I am now continuing toward my Bachelor’s degree.

I have seen many negative reviews, especially since UoPeople introduced AI proctoring. Personally, I think this is a good step because it helps reduce the number of people who try to take advantage of an online institution. My own experience has been nothing but pleasant.

UoPeople is a non-profit university. It accepts almost anyone who is willing to study, and its diploma now has more visibility than it did in the past. Even if someone is not only focused on getting a diploma, but simply wants to keep learning later in life, the education itself is worth the low cost. In my opinion, anyone who complains that a little over $100 is too much for a course must be living in a very unrealistic world.

The good: the education, which is the main reason we are here.

The bad: some unfair work from certain students, although I believe this is slowly being addressed.

In my experience, communication with my professors has been very positive. I actually owe my current job to one of them. That professor noticed what they called a “hidden talent” in me and encouraged me to look for work related to what I was studying. I followed that advice, and it helped me move into a better job connected to my field.

10 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Perfect Educational Opportunity

Perfect Educational Opportunity

I am continuing my education I began at a local community college. The enrollment and transfer process was very stream-lined and easy. The courses are easy to follow and I can see the progress I make in real time. This keeps me motivated.

8 June 2026
Unprompted review
Rated 1 out of 5 stars

I am a student at UoPeople

I am a student at UoPeople. I noticed that you are actively responding to reviews on this website, while many registered students are still waiting for replies to their urgent inquiries, especially with the new term starting so soon. Could you please prioritize student support during this critical time?

1 May 2026
Unprompted review
University of the People logo

Reply from University of the People

As a non-profit, tuition-free online university, UoPeople operates with limited resources while supporting a global student community. We understand that response times can be frustrating, particularly as a new term approaches, and we appreciate your patience.

Our team works hard to respond to both student inquiries and public reviews, and we are doing our best to address every request as quickly as possible.

If you are experiencing an urgent issue, please contact us directly at info@uopeople.edu with specific details so we can address your concerns and work towards a resolution. Thank you.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

University staff is nonexistent

University staff is just poorly trained AI. I got 3 terms in, asking constantly for them to confirm the address to send my transcripts, either no response or responses that told me to upload it on the website when I have to have it mailed. Professors and administrators alike use AI to do their jobs poorly while students are forbidden from using it. Don't expect anything but breakneck pace and no help.

*an update after the university reply*
The email they told me to send a message to is not monitored as I have several requests that have never been responded to. If staff is not AI, they are using AI to skim emails and not answering any questions.
I have since withdrawn from the university after continued attempts to reach any sort of resolution and not getting any sort of response that bothered to provide any assistance.
It should not take more than 6 months to confirm where to have a transcript sent *more than as the address has never been confirmed.

To further respond to their edits. I sent a series of SIX emails to admissions, info, and payments that were never responded to. The responses "within 24 hours" completely ignored what I was requesting and failed to answer simple questions. I would upload screenshots of the emails that they never responded to if trust pilot allowed images. This university is lying in public.

23 May 2026
Unprompted review
University of the People logo

Reply from University of the People

We are sorry to hear that your experience has been frustrating, Madie. Our staff, advisors, and instructors are real people working to support students from around the world, and we understand how disappointing it can feel when communication does not meet expectations.

We also understand your concerns regarding transcript submission guidance and response times, please email us directly at info@uopeople.edu with more specific details regarding your transcript situation so we can review your concerns further and work toward a resolution. Thank you.

EDIT: While we understand your frustration, Madie, our records show that our team responded to your inquiries within 24 hours. As a non-profit institution serving students worldwide, we work hard to provide timely support while maintaining an accessible and affordable education model.

If you have any further concerns, please contact us at info@uopeople.edu with more specific details so we can address your concerns and work towards a resolution. Thank you.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Affordable, Flexible, and Life-Changing for Working Adults

My experience at the University of the People has been overwhelmingly positive. As a working professional balancing teaching, tutoring, music instruction, and graduate studies, UoPeople gave me the flexibility to complete my Bachelor of Health Science without taking on massive student debt. The asynchronous format allowed me to study around my schedule while still maintaining academic rigor.

I especially appreciated the diversity of the student body and the opportunity to collaborate with people from around the world. The coursework challenged me to become a stronger writer, researcher, and critical thinker, and it prepared me well for graduate-level education and professional opportunities. The affordability and accessibility of the university make higher education possible for people who otherwise may never have the chance to earn a degree. UoPeople is accredited by WASC and continues to expand its recognition and partnerships globally.

Like any online university, it requires strong self-discipline and independent learning skills. Communication with advisors and administration can sometimes be slow, and I believe improving responsiveness would significantly enhance the student experience. However, overall, the value of the education compared to the cost is exceptional, and I am proud to be a graduate of UoPeople.

21 May 2026
Unprompted review

The Trustpilot Experience

Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.

Companies can ask for reviews via automatic invitations. Labeled Verified, they’re about genuine experiences.

Learn more about other kinds of reviews.

We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.

Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.

Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.

Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.

Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.

Take a closer look