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Best Online Course Platforms for Certificates
Short answer: Coursera is our top pick for recognised certificates at a reasonable subscription price.
See every plan side by side in the price tracker or try the platform quiz.
| Coursera | edX | Udacity | LinkedIn Learning | FutureLearn | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Coursera Plus $59/month or $399/year; single courses and programs $49–$79/month | Per course; free audit track or paid verified track | All Access subscription: $249/month, or $846 upfront for four months (15% saving), then month-to-month | No standalone individual subscription; included with LinkedIn Premium. PCMag reports Premium Career at $39.99/month or $239.88/year | Unlimited annual subscription; individual upgrades also sold |
| Certificates | Yes, certificates for completed courses | Verified certificate on the paid track | Nanodegree program certificates | Certificate of completion | — |
Sources
- Coursera Plus page
- Coursera Help: Coursera Plus (trial and refund terms)
- edX Help: Audit vs verified
- edX Help: What does it cost to take a course?
- Udacity Support: subscription FAQ
- Udacity plans
- LinkedIn Help: LinkedIn Learning subscription overview
- LinkedIn Help: Premium free trial
- PCMag: LinkedIn Learning review (pricing)
- FutureLearn Unlimited
- FutureLearn Help: Renewing Unlimited
Facts checked October 15, 2026. Prices are US list prices, change often and vary by region; confirm on the provider's site before buying.