While Khan Academy is popular for its free, high-quality lessons in math, science, and more, it doesn’t always click with everyone. Maybe you want more interactive lessons, live classes, or something that covers different topics like coding, art, or test prep. The good news? There are plenty of Khan Academy alternatives out there, each with its own style and strengths.
Online learning keeps growing fast. A Pew Research Center study found that 73% of U.S. adults consider themselves lifelong learners, and 74% have engaged in personal learning activities, like taking courses or attending events, to advance their knowledge in the past year.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up smart, useful sites similar to Khan Academy, whether you’re a student, parent, or just someone who wants to keep learning. Some are free, some are paid, and all of them bring something different to the table.
1. Coursera
If you’re after a Khan Academy alternative that feels more college-level, Coursera is a great option. It offers courses from real universities and companies like Google, Meta, and Yale. Whether you want to brush up on Excel or dive into data science, there’s probably a class for it.
You can learn for free if you’re just exploring. But if you want a certificate, career path, or even a full degree, you’ve got those options too.
Standout features:
- Classes from actual colleges and top brands
- You can audit most courses free
- Full learning paths for serious career goals
- Good balance between beginner and pro-level content
2. edX
edX is another site like Khan Academy, but with a more academic spin. It’s perfect if you like structured courses and want to learn from places like Harvard or MIT, without setting foot on campus.
They offer a lot of the same subjects you’d find on Khan Academy, but it’s more in-depth. It’s a good fit if you’re older, studying for exams, or just want to take things a step further.
What makes it different:
- Real college courses, taught by actual professors
- Free to access, pay if you want a certificate
- Some programs lead to online degrees
- Strong in science, math, and tech topics
3. Udemy
Udemy is a more casual Khan Academy competitor, great for learning random stuff you’re curious about. It has thousands of video courses, everything from coding to cooking, SEO, drawing, and personal finance.
It’s not free like Khan Academy, but the prices are usually low, especially during sales (which happen all the time). And once you buy a course, it’s yours forever.
Why people like it:
- Huge range of topics, practical and personal
- One-time purchase, no subscriptions
- Learn at your own speed with lifetime access
- Tons of beginner-friendly options
4. Brilliant
Brilliant is built for curious minds who enjoy solving problems, not just watching lectures. If you want something similar to Khan Academy but more hands-on, this is it. It’s especially good for math, science, and logic.
The lessons feel like puzzles. You don’t just read or watch, you interact. It’s great for anyone who learns better by doing instead of listening.
What makes it special:
- Interactive, problem-based learning
- Focused on STEM (math, science, coding)
- Ideal for both students and adults
- Lessons feel more like games than homework
5. Skillshare
Skillshare is a laid-back Khan Academy alternative focused on creative and practical skills. You’ll find classes on graphic design, writing, video editing, business tips, and even how to grow a YouTube channel.
Most lessons are short and easy to follow. It’s not academic, but it’s great if you want to build a hobby or freelance skill.
Why it stands out:
- Creative and career-focused topics
- Short, practical video lessons
- Great for side hustles or hobbies
- Community vibe with student projects
6. Outschool
If you’re after a Khan Academy alternative for kids, Outschool is a fun and flexible option. It offers live, small-group classes for ages 3 to 18. Subjects go way beyond math and science, there are classes on coding, creative writing, art, even Pokémon strategies or Minecraft mods.
It’s not free, but the live interaction makes it feel like a real classroom, minus the commute.
Why it’s a solid pick for families:
- Live online classes with real teachers
- Tons of variety, including quirky and creative topics
- Great for homeschoolers or supplementing school
- Classes for all ages, from toddlers to teens
7. FutureLearn
FutureLearn is another one of those sites like Khan Academy that works with universities around the world. The courses are split into easy weekly lessons, and it’s good for academic subjects or personal development.
You can join for free and only pay if you want a certificate or long-term access.
What makes it worth checking out:
- Weekly lessons you can fit into your routine
- Covers everything from medicine to photography
- Taught by actual experts
- Good mix of formal and fun courses
8. TED-Ed
TED-Ed isn’t a full course platform like Khan Academy, but it’s a great Khan Academy alternative for bite-sized learning. The videos are short, animated, and cover everything from science to history and philosophy.
It’s more about sparking curiosity than structured lessons, great for when you want to learn something new in 5–10 minutes.
Cool things about it:
- Beautifully animated explainer videos
- Covers big ideas in simple ways
- Great for all ages, especially teens
- Easy to watch on the go or in class
9. Academic Earth
If you’re searching for websites like Khan Academy that focus on academic subjects, Academic Earth fits the bill. It offers free courses from top universities in subjects like economics, philosophy, and physics.
The site’s layout is simple, and while it’s not flashy, the content is solid. It’s best if you want that traditional college feel without the cost.
Why learners give it a shot:
- 100% free courses
- Real lectures from top universities
- Good for college-level learners
- No account needed to start
10. CK-12 Foundation
CK-12 is a strong Khan Academy competitor, especially for middle and high schoolers. It’s packed with interactive textbooks, videos, practice problems, and simulations, and it’s all free.
Teachers love using it too because it aligns with school standards. It’s solid for subjects like algebra, geometry, biology, and physics.
Why it’s useful:
- Free digital textbooks
- Interactive tools like simulations and quizzes
- Designed for classroom or self-learning
- Great for STEM subjects
11. National Geographic Education
If you want something similar to Khan Academy but with a focus on geography, nature, and global issues, check this one out. National Geographic Education is geared toward students and teachers, with videos, articles, and free resources.
It’s visual and engaging, great for kids who like learning about the planet and how things work.
Highlights:
- Beautiful visuals and real-world topics
- Free educational videos and lesson plans
- Covers science, geography, culture
- Great for classroom or homeschool
12. Crash Course
Crash Course is one of the most entertaining sites like Khan Academy out there. It’s a YouTube-based channel with fast-paced, animated videos on history, biology, literature, and more.
It’s not full course, but the videos pack a ton of info into short, engaging episodes. Perfect for students who want a quick and fun review.
Why students love it:
- Fast, funny, and informative
- Covers high school and college topics
- Great for last-minute studying
- Totally free and easy to binge
Finding Flexibility in Online Education
Online learning isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s what makes Khan Academy alternatives so great. There’s no shortage of options that let you explore topics at your own pace, in ways that work best for you. Whether you’re into hands-on activities, live classes, or just want something more flexible, the variety is there. The real beauty of all these choices is that you get to take control of how you learn. It’s all about finding what clicks, and with so many platforms out there, there’s no reason you can’t make learning something that’s fun, engaging, and totally suited to you.