National Day

National Online Learning Day

Celebrated on 09/15/2026

Quick Fact

National Online Learning Day, observed on September 15th, was established in 2016 by the Online Learning Consortium to celebrate the transformative power of digital education. Did you know that over 6 million students in the U.S. were enrolled in at least one online course as of 2020? This day highlights how online learning has made education accessible to millions worldwide.

Origins and Establishment of National Online Learning Day

National Online Learning Day was first observed on September 15, 2016, and was created by the Online Learning Consortium (OLC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing quality online learning. The day was established to recognize the growth and impact of online education, which has expanded access to learning opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds. The OLC aimed to highlight the flexibility and innovation that online learning brings, especially in reaching learners who might otherwise be excluded from traditional educational settings.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Online Learning Day has grown in recognition, with educational institutions, companies, and organizations participating by hosting webinars, sharing success stories, and promoting online learning resources. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 accelerated the adoption of online learning, making this day even more relevant as millions of students and educators transitioned to digital platforms. Today, the day is celebrated with events that showcase best practices, technological advancements, and the achievements of online learners, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and lifelong learning.

Facts & General Observations

  • According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in fall 2019, 37.2% of postsecondary students in the U.S. were enrolled in distance education courses.
  • The global online education market is projected to reach $350 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate of over 10%.
  • A 2021 survey by BestColleges found that 94% of students who took online courses would recommend them to others, citing flexibility and convenience as key benefits.

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