Best ASL Online Classes 2024

20 Best ASL online classes – American Sign Language courses

American Sign Language, or ASL, is useful for a variety of reasons. Most people who use it are Deaf or hard of hearing, but some hearing folks use it as well. Whatever your motivation, you’ve come to the right place to get started on your ASL journey.

In this article, we cover 20 of the best ASL online classes in 2024 so that you can explore your options to learn American Sign Language in an enjoyable way.

ASL Online Classes – Overview 

By learning American Sign Language, you can communicate with family or friends who use it, better support the Deaf community, or gain a useful work skill. Learning ASL isn’t quite like learning spoken languages. Thus, ASL online classes often work differently than those for Spanish, Japanese, or other languages.

A misconception about American Sign Language is that it’s a straightforward and easily learned language, perhaps because many of the most basic signs (like sleep, drink, and eat,) are seen as iconic. However, it’s quite a complex language with nuances like spoken languages, plus additional challenges.

You will have to learn grammar, vocabulary, and expressions, but you’ll also have to learn to rely more on abstraction and less on literal word-for-translations of English. ASL has regional dialects and accents, with varying rhythms, slang, and pronunciation.

But again, ASL is a useful language that carries many benefits. You can demonstrate your ASL skills with the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI), which awards speakers with scores from 0 to 5.

Whether you’re new to ASL or an advanced learner, there are many ways to improve your fluency. Let’s dive into the best ASL online courses that can help you reach your goals.

Best ASL Online Classes 2024 – Top Picks

Rocket ASL Classes	Udemy ASL Classes	ASLDeafined Classes	edX ASL Science
from $99/Level 1	from $11.99/course	from $36/year	$289
★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★★☆
Free Trial. Discounts.	Up to 95% off.	Free trial.	Certification
Visit Website	Visit Website	View Details	Visit Website

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure at the end of this post.

Note: This review provides an overview of the best ASL online classes. We cannot claim comprehensiveness as there are many other American sign language courses available.

1. Rocket Languages – ASL Online Course

Rocket Languages (visit website) offers a comprehensive ASL online class to get you from beginner to intermediate level. The class ensures that you reach a decent conversational level in American Sign Language. With 96 hours of lesson time, you will explore plenty of themes, like different dialects, travel, and sign language for babies.

Rocket ASL also emphasizes that communicating in American Sign Language isn’t just about signing, and their popular ASL online class also teaches students about Deaf culture and etiquette. The platform also gives you lifetime access, so you can constantly improve and brush up on your ASL skills.

Another benefit is that Rocket Languages acknowledges the many differences between ASL and other languages. They avoid using a cookie-cutter approach from their other language courses. Rocket ASL is one of the best ASL online classes for beginners who want to start from scratch and move on to more advanced levels with one program.

User Reviews: 4.8 ★★★★★ | Info: Visit website. Free trial + discounts.
Pricing: Level 1 from $99 | Level 1/2 from $249.90 | Level 1/2/3 from $259.90

2. Udemy ASL Online Classes

Udemy (visit website) is a popular online learning platform for teaching and learning a vast array of subjects, including ASL. On Udemy, there are currently 60+ ASL online classes taught by various instructors. The structure, learning goals, and number of lectures all depend entirely on the specific ASL course you choose.

Examples of ASL topics covered include correct hand shape, home signs, basic vocabulary, transport, and directions. But there are so many ASL online courses taught through Udemy that it’s impossible to cover all themes mentioned in the classes.

American Sign Language online classes that deserve honorable mention are Udemy’s current featured course on 101 inspiring life quotes in ASL, First 500+ SIgns, Dialogues with Emotion Signs, and Essential Noun Signs.

ASL classes: 60+ | Rating: 4.5-4.8 ★★★★☆
Info: Browse category for all ASL Classes on Udemy. From $11.99. Up to 95% off.

3. American Sign Language Science – Georgetown University, edX

Georgetown University offers an ASL Science certification (visit website) through edX, a reputable platform created by Harvard and MIT. The Professional Certificate in American Sign Language Science is a self-paced course with 4 skill-building ASL online courses.

It’s not like a traditional ASL course, though. Instead, it focuses on the history and evolution of the language. You’ll learn to identify the historical origins of ASL grammar, describe the variation among ASL, compare and contrast signed languages to spoken ones, and discuss the role of visual analogy and other related phenomena.

The certificate program is for anyone interested in linguistics, cognitive science, and the science of sign language research. Although it’s a great opportunity for ASL users to learn about their language, this ASL class doesn’t require any prior knowledge of sign language.

Provider: Georgetown University, edX | Type: Professional Certificate
Duration: 4 months. 3-5 hours/week | Pricing: $289 with certification
Info: View course page. Browse: Search all language programs on edX.

4. American Sign Language ASL – Level 1 – Udemy

One of the best ASL online classes on Udemy is American Sign Language ASL – Level 1 (visit website). The ASL course teaches students a solid foundation in ASL and is suitable for anyone interested in learning sign language. It doesn’t have any prerequisites, so it’s ideal for beginners. Once purchased, you’ll be able to access your ASL class for life.

This Level 1 ASL online class covers the following themes: ASL’s origins, fingerspelling, the alphabet, food, animals, family, feelings, professions, nouns, and verbs. By the end of the course, students will be able to use ASL to tell a short story.

They will also receive a certificate of completion. Keep in mind, though, that this ASL online course does not have closed captions, which can make it a bit trickier.

Instructor: Intellezy Trainers | Level: Beginners | Video: 2.5 hours
Price: View course. From $11.99. Up to 95% off. Browse category ASL on Udemy.

5. Learn ASL Language Online – ASLdeafined

ASLdeafined is grounded in the idea that ASL is best taught by Deaf teachers. Thus, all videos are recorded by Deaf staff. There are three areas or groups with different goals, so choosing one really depends on your interest.

There’s a group for Deaf individuals who want to strengthen their ASL and English skills, one for parents of Deaf children, and one for people who have a personal interest in learning the ASL sign language online.

Regardless of the group that you choose, ASLdeafined online courses contain more than 300 themed lessons. The cost is a yearly fee that’s considerably lower than the cost of other best ASL online classes mentioned above.

It’s even cheaper for individuals who are learning ASL for educational reasons. Another advantage of the platform is that the yearly fee includes access to the ASLDeafined app.

Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Price: $36/year | Trial: Yes

Reading tip: Here is a guide on how to learn ASL sign language. Browse our lists of language courses online or language learning apps to learn multiple languages.

6. The Complete American Sign Language ASL Online Class – Cudoo

No prior knowledge or experience is needed for Cudoo’s Complete American Sign Language ASL Online Class. This course bundle covers multiple levels, plus some extra topic modules. After enrolling, you will start with Level 1 which covers the ASL alphabet, basic signs, numbers 1-100, time, pronouns, family, and occupation.

Level 2 teaches you how to communicate effectively, emphasizing question words, prepositions, verbs, tenses, and food. Lastly, Level 3 encompasses topics like weather, hobbies, comparisons, fashion, money, directions, emergencies, and Deaf etiquette.

In addition to the three main levels, the bundle includes two unique modules: American Sign Language for Babies and Toddlers and a Scuba Diving Hand Signals Course. If you want to learn how to communicate with preverbal infants and toddlers or if you’re a passionate scuba diver, the Cudoo course is among the best ASL online classes.

Rating: 4.7 ★★★★☆ | Price: $359 | Trial: Yes

Tip: Not the right language? Browse our lists of best Italian courses or Spanish courses or English courses or German courses or Portuguese classes or Chinese classes or Japanese classes or Arabic classes or French classes online.

7. Learn ASL Online – Sign Language 101

Sign Language 101’s Complete ASL online class was created by Deaf curriculum specialists and includes both the Level 1 and Level 2 courses. The Level 1 curriculum is designed for beginners and introduces basic signs and Deaf culture.

Level 2 encourages you to build on your vocabulary and grammar by forming sentences and learning how to describe things in ASL. If you’re a complete beginner and want to master the language, it might be best to do Levels 1 and 2, but if you already know the basics, you could jump to Level 2 right away.

You’ll learn through the recorded lectures, which include exercise and activities for additional practice. While Sign Language 101 has organized each level to be 10 weeks long, you can go at your own pace. All ASL online lessons come in bite-sized lectures so that they aren’t too overwhelming. They also include exercises and activities for practice.

Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Price: from $34.99/course | Trial: Yes

8. ASL Connect – GU Gallaudet University

Gallaudet University is the only liberal arts college in the world that is devoted completely to Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The institution offers its ASL online courses throughout the year and in person during the summer.

The American Sign Language levels range from I to V, so they’re appropriate for beginners and advanced speakers. All levels highlight vocabulary development, grammatical features, cultural awareness, and conversational and communication skills.

However, students need to meet the prerequisite requirements to enroll in levels II through V. These levels require learners to have successfully completed the previous level with a grade of “B” or equivalent, and they also must get instructor permission. While you need to apply to the program, you don’t have to be a student enrolled in the college.

Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Application: Yes | Trial: Yes | Financial Aid: Yes

9. Learn American Sign Language Online – StartASL

As the name suggests, Start ASL has a complete course for people looking to start from the beginning. While other best ASL online classes begin by teaching basic words like “cat” and “dog”, Start ASL begins immediately with real-life conversations and activities.

The curriculum covers three levels that take a comprehensive and systemic learning approach. Each level, which is roughly equivalent to a semester of college classroom instruction, is packed with information.

Level 1 covers units such as word order, fingerspelling, identifying people, and Deaf culture. You’ll study more complex themes in Level 2, which includes units of sentence types, inflection, and pluralization. Lastly, Level 3 covers advanced signing and units like role shifting, literature, sign language games, and interpreting songs.

Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Info: Silver $24.99/month. Gold $49.95/month | Trial: Yes

10. American Sign Language ASL Certification – International Open Academy

More than 140,000 students have taken the Academy’s American Sign Language ASL certification courses. Those are accredited by the International Council for Online Educational Standards. The only requirement to enroll is that you have an interest in learning ASL sign language.

According to this platform, their ASL online classes are suitable for people who want to learn new skills, upgrade their work skills, or start a new career that requires ASL.

Taking you beyond the basics, International Open Academy teaches jokes, informal ASL, and etiquette in addition to grammar and vocabulary. The lessons are divided into 8 modules, and each module includes specific topics.

The beginning modules cover topics such as numbers, introductions, and basic grammar, while the more advanced modules teach you about morphology, lexicalized signs, and variations in American Sign Language.

Review: 4.7 ★★★★☆ | Info: $9/month subscription. $119/course | Trial: Yes

11. American Sign Language Made Easy – Sign It!

Sign It!’s innovative American Sign Language ASL online classes have several features similar to other mentioned best ASL courses above. They introduce students to Deaf culture and teach fingerspelling, grammar, and vocabulary.

There are 20 different lessons, with each one focusing on a specific theme. You can purchase lessons either in groups of 5 or all 20 at once, which is the cheapest option if you plan to complete each one.

However, Sign It! ASL online classes have some benefits compared to other sign language courses online. You can choose between three difficulty level settings, depending on your skills and how much time you’re able to commit.

The lessons feature quizzes and exams, so you can track your progress and determine areas of improvement. Sign It! also makes sure to teach vocabulary with multiple people signing the same word. Thus, you will better understand different speakers and dialects. This is one of the best ASL online courses for beginners with a fun learning experience.

Review: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Price: $49.99-$349.99. | Trial: Available

12. ASL Online Courses and Live Classes – SignOn 

Connecting the Deaf and hearing communities, SignOn gives American Sign Language learners the opportunity to learn from a Deaf ASL ambassador one-on-one.

There are more than 35 ambassadors from across the country, and each one has a unique personal and professional background. All ambassadors have completed rigorous training and have received ASLPI scores of at least 3.

Students arrange one-on-one ambassador sessions, which are available seven days a week. The ASL online classes and lessons are immersive, ensuring that students get an authentic learning interaction. After each lecture, your Deaf ASL ambassador will assess your sign production and clarity, vocabulary, facial expressions, structure, and more.

Students will receive personalized constructive feedback. You can access your sessions via desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Plus, you can rewatch your past sessions any time to practice what you’ve learned. Overall, they offer some of the best ASL online classes for those looking for an immersive learning experience.

Review: 4.8 ★★★★☆ | Price: $25/session (30 minutes). Packages available.

8 Other ASL Sign Language Online Classes

13. Intro to ASL – TakeLessons

This entry-level ASL online class is split up into three parts, which are organized into modules. The lessons tackle the fundamental knowledge and go up to the Early Beginner 2 stage, so this ASL course is only appropriate for beginners.

14. Learn ASL Online with Meredith

ASL Meredith is a certified and highly qualified ASL teacher and private tutor. You can use her website for tips and advice, resources, and ASL online lessons. Meredith is a believer in immersion, so be prepared for a challenge!

15. Learn American Sign Language – Lingvano

Lingvano is one of the more popular apps for learning ASL. By using it for just 10 minutes a day, you’ll be conversing in no time. A special feature of this ASL app is the Lingvano Sign mirror, which lets you perfect your skills and increase your confidence.

16. Skillshare American Sign Language ASL Online Classes

Skillshare, a learning community for creators, is similar to the Udemy platform and also offers American Sign Language ASL online classes for beginners and intermediates alike. When you start your program, you can also learn offline through Skillshare’s app.

17. ASL Online Classes – The ASL App

The ASL App, designed by Deaf people, focuses on conversation and the importance of bridging communities. It teaches more than 2,500 signs and phrases with different signers, so you can better understand the variation among ASL.

18. Learn ASL for Free – SignSchool

SignSchool: Learn ASL for Free is a free Google Play app that helps users build their ASL vocabulary and play review games to reinforce learning. However, some users have reported technical difficulties with this ASL app.

19. ASL Online Classes – Marlee Signs 

This popular learning app spotlights Marlee Matlin, an award-winning Deaf actress, who teaches users the fundamentals of ASL. Its comprehensive videos allow users to learn at their own pace. The app tracks completed ASL online classes, sessions and lessons.

20. American Sign Language University (ASLU)

American Sign Language University is a site of ASL resources for both teachers and students. Just click the links on the site to learn how to sign certain phrases or words. ASLU also educates users about a multitude of themes, like puzzles, jokes, and interpreting. The ASL online classes are suitable for beginners and intermediates alike.

How to Choose the Best ASL Online Classes

With so many American Sign Language ASL online classes, it can be difficult to figure out which one is the best course for you and your personal goals. It is best to create a shortlist of your most realistic options first. Once you’ve narrowed it down according to objective factors like cost and duration, you can take a look at other characteristics.

You should compare your ASL knowledge and abilities to the levels offered through each course. If you’re a complete beginner and just want to learn basic communication skills, look for an ASL online class for beginners. Those who already have decent ASL vocabulary and grammar skills can narrow it down to courses that tackle advanced topics.

Lastly, why do you want to study ASL? If want to add a skill to your resume, perhaps a certificate-granting course would be best. Or maybe you want to choose an ASL course that covers sign language for babies. Whatever your motivation and situation, you will find the best ASL online classes to meet your needs with some research.

Best ASL Online Classes 2024 – Verdict

Wrapping up our review of the best ASL online classes and courses in 2024. No matter which American Sign Language ASL online course you choose, you’re sure to gain skills in ASL with consistent practice and dedication.

American Sign Language is not only vital to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities in the U.S., but it also allows the hearing community to gain important new skills.

Among the online platforms mentioned, ASLdeafined wins as the most well-rounded option because of its financial accessibility, lessons taught by Deaf teachers only, and groups based on learning motivation. However, all the best ASL online courses listed in this article will help you progress and forge relationships with the ASL-speaking community.

Universities with American Sign Language Online Classes

• Georgia State University
• College of Southern Nevada CSN
• Portland Community College
• Wright State University
• Santa Barbara City College
• California State University Long Beach

Other American Sign Language Online Classes

• Basic Sign Language Phrases for Beginners – ASL – YouTube – View
• ASL Basics for Beginners – YouTube – View
• Learn ASL Online – Beginner – YouTube – View
• American Sign Language Fundamental Concepts – Alison
• ASL Pro – Resources, tools, ASL exercises

Other ASL American Sign Language Apps – iOS, Android

• SignSchool
• Lingvano
• ASL Sign Language Pocket Sign
• ASL Coach
• ASL Fingerspelling
• TikTok ASL lessons

What are the best ASL Online Classes for 2024, in your opinion? Which other ASL online courses have you taken? What have you learned? Please let us know in the comments below, or contact us via email for questions.

ASL Resources: What is ASL? –1 | American Sign Language – NIH – 2 | ASL Dictionary – 3 | Finger Spelling ASL Chart – 4 | American Society for Deaf Children – 5

Words: Petie Schill

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links to some providers of American Sign Language ASL online classes and courses. courselounge may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. It does not add any extra costs. All reviews, opinions, descriptions and comparisons expressed here are our own.