Udemy
Biggest draw: best all-in-one platform
Price: varies from $20 to $200 per course
App: available on Android and iOS
Udemy has over 155,000 cutting-edge online courses in any field you can think of and more. Its instructors are top-tier experts from all over the world who make such complex topics as coding, marketing, SEO, and design accessible, fun, and entertaining. In doing so, they make use of various engaging materials – from video lectures and exercises to quizzes and Q&As. The blend of diverse programs (even soft skills and bachata are here) allows you to make the right choice for your goal. In case you’re not satisfied with your course, you can ask for a refund within 30 days after the purchase.
EdX
Biggest draw: best for academics
Price: free or $49 and more per course
App: available on Android and iOS
Launched by Harvard and MIT, EdX is a holy grail for all wishing to get that university experience in the comfort of their own home. The platform brings together real-world specialists from 160+ major universities and industry leaders like Google, Sorbonne University, and ITMO, too. It offers one-off, specialized, and degree programs for all tastes and wallets. With its flexible and diverse options, you can acquire marketable skills and knowledge, broaden your horizons (architecture, chemistry, social sciences, and more), and even earn a Bachelor's or Master’s degree.
Skillshare
Biggest draw: best for creatives
Price: free (30-day trial) or $7 per month or $21 annually
App: available on Android and iOS
If you are more on the artistic side, then Skillshare is your trusty buddy. The key feature of this platform is a monthly subscription that gives access to thousands of hands-on classes on creative arts, technology, business, and lifestyle. Series of up to hour-long lessons – plus class assignments and discussions – are a perfect way to take your skills to the next level whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
MasterClass
Biggest draw: best for fans
Price: $180 for the annual subscription ($15 a month)
App: available on Android and iOS
If you’ve always dreamed of cooking like Gordon Ramsay, shooting like James Cameron, or singing like Christina Aguilera, you’ve come to the right place. MasterClass is a gem of deep insights, practical advice, and everyday wisdom. Here, you get the chance to learn from A-list celebrities: photographers and designers, novelists and musicians, and even cooks and dog trainers. With an annual subscription, you can learn to your heart’s content through a mix of talkative one-on-one sessions and engaging exercises from the brilliant minds of our time.
There are some cool Russian platforms, too. If you'd like to take a course in Russian, you can turn to Stepik for math, computer science, and languages (also available in English), GeekBrains for web development, design, and SMM, and Open Education for academic courses.
It’s back-to-school season aka the perfect time to start fresh and pick up new habits and hobbies. To be fully prepared for the new academic year, check out our handy guides to life in the city and the best study spots around campuses. And here's something more about arts, sports, and even recycling.
