Discover the Most Affordable Online Medical Billing & Coding Classes

Preppy – Online Medical Billing & Coding Certification

Preppy offers a fully online, self-paced certification program that is built for affordability. Featuring engaging coursework developed in partnership with Auburn University, you can earn a certificate in as little as four months and be prepared to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam through AAPC.

If you don’t have a laptop, Preppy will supply one to use while you’re in the program, or you can complete coursework on your phone. After you earn your certificate, Preppy helps you transition into the workforce through an optional externship with a local healthcare organization.

Est. Tuition: As little as $1,599

Program Format: Fully online, self-paced

Credential Offered: Certificate of Completion

Program Length: As little as 4 months

Ashworth College – Online Medical Billing and Coding Course

Ashworth College offers one of the lowest-cost online medical billing and coding courses. It allows students to move at their own pace, making it a great option for working adults. You’ll learn on the same software used by medical billing and coding professionals, putting you on the fast-track for career success after you complete the program.

Your tuition costs also include several coding manuals and reference books that you get to keep after graduation. You’ll also get access to Ashworth College’s Central Network, an online toolkit with guidance for creating your resume, writing cover letters, and landing a job.

Est. Tuition: $1,249 (monthly payments as low as $59 available)

Program Format: Fully online, self-paced

Credential Offered: Certificate of Completion

Program Length: Roughly 4-6 months

Penn Foster – Online Medical Billing and Coding Career Diploma

Penn Foster’s online program balances affordability with robust academic support. Tuition includes a complete online curriculum, as well as three physical textbooks that are delivered to you at no extra cost.

This program is set apart by its structured, career-aligned curriculum. It’s designed to mirror industry standards and better prepare you for a career in medical billing and coding with hands-on simulation training and claims processing exercises. You’ll also receive a CBCS Exam Voucher worth $115 that allows you to sit for the certification exam after graduation at no extra cost.

Est. Tuition: $1,569 (frequently discounted to $1,049)

Program Format: Fully online, self-paced

Charter College – A.A.S. in Medical Billing and Coding

Unlike shorter certificate programs, Charter College’s associate degree offers a more comprehensive experience that blends technical training with general education. Most students complete the program in 15 months through a fully online platform with flexible pacing.

You’ll gain foundational knowledge in healthcare ethics, computer literacy, and professional communication — skills valued by future employers. Charter College’s program prepares students not just for entry-level coding positions, but for long-term advancement in medical administration.

Est. Tuition: $37,326

Program Format: Fully online

Credential Offered: Associate of Applied Science

Bottom Line:

If affordability is your top priority, a certificate program is likely the best fit. But if you’re thinking more about your long-term career, an associate degree may be worth considering.

Online vs. Campus Learning

Online learning can help keep the final price tag down since you won’t incur extra housing or commuting costs. Choosing an online program also means you can typically work a full-time job to support yourself while going to school. Lastly, tuition for online programs is almost always less than on-campus learning.

Program Length

Generally, the shorter the program, the less you can expect to pay in tuition and fees. A faster program also gets you closer to earning an income since you’ll be spending less time in school. Since certificate programs are usually shorter than degrees, these reduced costs are worth considering.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Many medical billing and coding programs qualify for financial aid. You may qualify for grants or scholarships either from your program or from the federal government. Some schools also offer payment plans that can make earning a certificate or degree more accessible if you can’t afford to pay the full program cost up front.

10 Ways to Reduce the Cost of Your Program

Even if you choose an affordable medical billing and coding program, smart decisions can help you save even more. Here are 10 ways to reduce your costs and make your education cheaper.

• Apply for the FAFSA
• Consider community colleges
• Use tuition reimbursement from your employer
• Choose a self-paced program to finish faster
• Compare multiple schools before enrolling to find a better deal
• Look for bundled certification exam prep
• Buy used or digital textbooks (or find a program with included textbooks)
• Ask about transferring credits from past college courses you’ve completed
• Apply for medical coding scholarships
• Ask about monthly payment plans