Considering a dive into the world of coding but hesitant to spend money before knowing if it’s right for you? Or maybe you’re looking to expand your programming skills without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place. If the realm of computer science and learning to code intrigues you, and you desire a risk-free way to test the waters, this comprehensive guide is tailored for you.
While mastering professional-level coding skills might eventually require more intensive, paid education, the foundational knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and much more is entirely accessible for free.
Can you really learn to code FOR FREE?
Absolutely! While it will require your time and dedication, learning to code online for free is not just a possibility, but a reality. You can embark on this journey from the comfort of your home, at a pace that suits your lifestyle.
The demand for skilled engineers is soaring, and the digital landscape has responded with a plethora of online learning opportunities. The recent global shift further accelerated this trend, prompting many to embrace new coding skills and programming languages as a pathway for career transitions and personal growth. And you can join them!
Below, you’ll discover over 100 online coding classes and resources, catering to diverse learning styles, commitment levels, skill sets, and career aspirations. Explore the options, and you’ll be well on your way to learning to code in no time!
Table of Contents:
Free Online Coding Classes and Programs
1. Skillcrush
Skillcrush’s Free Coding Camp offers a welcoming, beginner-friendly introduction to tech and digital careers. Designed to demystify coding, it allows you to try your hand at writing code in simple terms to determine if learning to code aligns with your goals. In just minutes per day, you’ll learn HTML and CSS fundamentals, and grasp the basics of UX design.
Visit Skillcrush’s Free Coding Camp
2. Codecademy
Codecademy is a recognized online learning platform, primarily known for its paid coding courses. However, it also provides a significant array of free coding classes in popular programming languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, HTML, and CSS. These free courses are an excellent starting point to explore various languages and find your niche.
Kickstart your coding journey with these free programming classes:
- Introduction to HTML: Learn the basics of structuring web content.
- Make a Website: A practical class teaching both HTML and CSS for web development.
Related: Should You Learn to Code with Codecademy?
3. freeCodeCamp
freeCodeCamp is a non-profit organization dedicated to making coding education accessible to everyone. True to its name, it offers free online coding classes and certifications in areas like responsive web design, data visualization, and machine learning. With over 30,000 hours of free content, freeCodeCamp is a treasure trove for aspiring coders. Their community forums are also a great place to connect with fellow learners.
For those eager to delve deeper into code or data science, freeCodeCamp offers advanced, certification-bearing courses like:
- Data Analysis with Python Certification
- Data Visualization Certification
- JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures
- Machine Learning with Python Certification
- Scientific Computing with Python Certification
These comprehensive courses, each requiring around 300 hours to complete, are offered entirely free of charge and can significantly boost your portfolio.
Related: Should You Learn to Code with freeCodeCamp?
4. web.dev by Google
web.dev is a Google initiative providing free, open-source online coding lessons and tutorials. Primarily focused on web development, these resources cover a broad spectrum of skills applicable across various tech domains. Being developed by Google, the content is high-quality and reflects industry best practices.
Explore these tech and coding tutorials:
- HTML and CSS: Master the foundation of web design.
- JavaScript: Learn the language of interactive websites.
- Accessibility: Understand how to build inclusive web experiences.
- Responsive Design: Create websites that adapt to different devices.
5. w3schools
w3schools is a veteran in the realm of free online learning platforms for coding and web development. Having been around for a long time, w3schools has refined its approach to teaching coding effectively. It’s a go-to resource for quick lookups and structured learning paths.
Start with these free w3schools courses:
- HTML + CSS: Build the visual layer of websites.
- JavaScript: Add interactivity and dynamic features to web pages.
- SQL: Learn to manage and query databases.
6. Khan Academy
Khan Academy, renowned for its K-12 educational content, extends its free educational platform to include a substantial selection of free coding classes. As a non-profit, Khan Academy is committed to providing accessible education for everyone.
Free coding classes at Khan Academy include:
- Intro to JS: Drawing & Animation: Learn JavaScript through creative visual projects.
- Intro to HTML/CSS: Making Webpages: Build your first webpages with these fundamental languages.
- Intro to SQL: Querying and Managing Data: Grasp database management basics.
7. Udemy
Udemy functions as an online learning marketplace, hosting a vast library of over 130,000 user-created courses, with more than 2,000 focusing on coding. While Udemy offers paid courses ranging in price, a wealth of free coding classes are also available, including concise Tech 101-style courses ideal for beginners. These free courses are often a great way to get a taste of a specific technology.
Start with these free coding classes:
- Git & GitHub Crash Course: Learn version control essentials.
- Visual Studio Code: Master a popular code editor.
- Build a Quiz App with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: A hands-on project to solidify your web development skills.
Related: Should You Learn to Code with Udemy?
8. Code.org
Code.org, similar to Khan Academy, is a non-profit website dedicated to promoting computer science education, particularly among school-aged students. However, its resources are valuable for learners of all ages and backgrounds. Don’t be deterred by the K-12 focus, as the foundational concepts are universally applicable.
FYI: Beyond K-12 lessons, Code.org provides resources for free JavaScript and Python courses, including data querying and management. This makes it a good stepping stone into more advanced topics.
9. Codewars
Codewars injects fun into learning with a martial arts-themed approach. By solving coding “katas” (coding exercises), you earn ranks and progress towards becoming a proficient coder. Codewars offers a diverse range of programming languages, making it suitable for exploring different areas.
Choose free computer programming courses for:
- Python
- SQL
- PHP
- Ruby
- JavaScript
And many more – allowing you to prioritize based on your interests and career goals when learning how to code.
10. General Assembly Dash
General Assembly Dash is the free learning platform from General Assembly, a well-known paid coding school. Dash teaches the fundamentals of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in an engaging, interactive manner, maintaining the quality associated with GA courses. Consider it a free mini-bootcamp, ideal for initiating your free coding journey.
Related: Should You Learn to Code with General Assembly?
11. codeconquest
codeconquest is a comprehensive, free platform for learning to code, offering tutorials and reviews of premium coding sites. While more text-intensive than some other resources, codeconquest is perfect for those who prefer reading to learn.
Try free coding tutorials for:
- HTML
- CSS
- Ruby
- jQuery
12. Udacity
Udacity, founded by former Stanford University professors, offers a blend of free and paid courses. Around 200 of their coding classes, referred to as “nanodegrees,” are available for free. Udacity is known for its industry-relevant curriculum and connections to tech companies.
Explore these free coding classes before committing to a full course:
- Intro to HTML and CSS: Build your first web pages.
- Intro to Python Programming: Get started with Python, a versatile language.
- Version Control with Git: Learn essential collaboration skills (This course takes about four weeks and seamlessly transitions into their React program).
13. Tuts+
Tuts+ is an extensive online tutorial library with over 20,000 free tutorials, thousands of which are dedicated to coding and tech. Tutorials range from foundational topics to more specialized skills, offering a wide variety of learning options.
Try these tutorials to learn to code:
- Figma Quick Start Guide: Learn a popular design tool.
- Vue.js Tutorial: Beginner to Front-End Developer: Dive into a modern JavaScript framework.
- How to Use the Figma to Webflow Plugin: Explore web development workflows.
- UI Design for Beginners: Understand user interface design principles.
14. The Odin Project
The Odin Project is a free, open-source coding curriculum specifically designed for absolute beginners. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a structured, comprehensive path to learning coding online. The Odin Project offers full-stack courses in both Ruby and JavaScript, providing in-depth learning experiences.
[Beginner’s Tips for Learning How to Code & Adopting a Developers Mindset]
Video: 6 Secrets Every Awesome Web Developer Knows
Before diving into the vast world of free coding classes, it’s crucial to understand effective learning strategies and cultivate a developer’s mindset.
15. Upskill
Upskill offers a library of coding classes. Their Essential Web Development Course is permanently free upon email signup, featuring full-stack web development lessons using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Ruby on Rails. This course provides a solid foundation in key web technologies.
16. Hackr.io
Hackr.io is a unique platform that aggregates and ranks programming courses and tutorials from across the web. It functions as a search engine and recommendation system, allowing you to find top-rated courses on various technologies, from jQuery to Angular, Java, and C#. User upvoting helps surface the most valuable resources.
17. Microsoft Virtual Academy
Microsoft Virtual Academy is a free resource from Microsoft for learning to use their technologies like Azure and .NET. They offer certifications and personalized learning paths aligned with different tech job roles. If you’re interested in the Microsoft ecosystem, this is a valuable resource.
Free coding classes at Microsoft Virtual Academy include:
- Fundamentals of Generative AI: Explore the basics of artificial intelligence.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Learn cloud computing with Azure.
- Introduction to Prompt Engineering: Understand how to interact with AI models.
Visit Microsoft Virtual Academy
18. Edabit
Edabit adopts a distinctive, gamified approach to coding education, often likened to the DuoLingo of tech skills. Instead of passive learning, Edabit emphasizes learning by doing. While most courses are paid, their JavaScript tutorial is completely free and interactive.
19. LaunchSchool’s Open Book Shelf
LaunchSchool, an online software development education platform, provides free access to books from their courses through their Open Book Shelf. While some books are better suited for those enrolled in their programs or with prior knowledge, others are beneficial for beginners or as supplementary material for other free courses.
20. MDN Web Docs
MDN Web Docs, formerly Mozilla Developer Network (MDN), is a long-standing, authoritative learning platform for developers, dating back to 2005. It’s an invaluable resource for web development information and tutorials.
Try these tech and coding tutorials:
- Introduction to HTML: A comprehensive HTML starting point.
- CSS Basics: Learn the fundamentals of styling web pages.
- JavaScript First Steps: Your initial foray into JavaScript programming.
Visit Mozilla Developer Network’s Tutorials
21. After Hours Programming
After Hours Programming is a free resource offering modules ranging from HTML and CSS to mySQL, graphic design, usability, and SEO. This platform aims to provide a broader perspective on web development’s role within the larger context of programming for major websites like Amazon and Google.
Extra General Coding Courses & Tutorials
Free College and University Coding Programs
For those seeking a college-like learning experience without the tuition fees, several universities offer free access to their course materials. These programs provide structured learning from renowned institutions.
22. Coursera
Coursera is a leading online learning platform hosting content from top universities, with over 100 coding classes available. Coursera classes are free to audit, allowing you to access course materials and lectures. Formal coursework and certifications usually require a monthly fee.
Start with this free coding course from Duke University: Programming Foundations with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS
23. EdX
EdX is another university-backed online learning platform, featuring content from institutions like Harvard and MIT. Similar to Coursera, many EdX classes are free to audit, including courses on various programming languages and introductory HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Start with these online coding classes:
- CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science (Harvard University): A foundational computer science course from Harvard.
- Introduction to Python for Data Science – Microsoft: Learn Python in the context of data science.
- Introduction to Java Programming (University of California, Irvine): Get started with Java programming.
- Web Programming Fundamentals (University of California, Berkeley): Explore web development basics.
24. MIT OpenCourseWare
MIT OpenCourseWare is an initiative by MIT to make almost all of their educational materials freely available online. This includes a wealth of introductory programming and tech courses, offering access to MIT-quality education at no cost.
Start with these coding classes if you want to get more specific:
- Introduction to Programming in Java: Learn Java from MIT.
- Introduction to Computer Science and Programming in Python: A Python introduction from MIT.
- Introduction to Computational Thinking and Data Science: Explore computational thinking and data science principles.
Free HTML and CSS Classes and Tutorials
HTML and CSS are fundamental for web development. Fortunately, they are also among the easiest languages to learn, allowing you to quickly start building projects and even monetize your skills.
25. MarkSheet
MarkSheet is a free, semi-guided tutorial for HTML & CSS, featuring lessons on HTML5, CSS3, and advanced topics like SaaS. It’s structured as a comprehensive guide rather than individual courses.
26. Codecademy: Introduction to HTML
Codecademy’s free intro to HTML course is an ideal starting point for learning web development. It’s interactive and beginner-friendly.
Visit Codecademy’s HTML course
27. Codecademy: Learn CSS
Codecademy also offers a free CSS course, completing the foundational pair for web design. Learning CSS is essential for styling and layout in web development.
28. HTML.com
HTML.com provides a free HTML tutorial specifically designed for absolute beginners. It’s a straightforward resource for grasping the basics of HTML.
29. Learn-HTML.org
Learn-HTML.org is an online platform offering step-by-step tutorials and interactive exercises focused on HTML. It’s designed for beginners and covers essential HTML concepts.
30. HTML Dog
HTML Dog hosts free HTML tutorials, along with examples of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in action, and common web development techniques. It’s a practical resource with real-world examples.
Extra HTML and CSS Tutorials
Pro-tip: Mastering CSS is crucial for anyone serious about web development.
Free JavaScript Courses and Tutorials
JavaScript is a cornerstone of modern web development and one of the most popular programming languages globally. It’s essential for front-end developers and for creating interactive web experiences.
31. LearnJS
Learn-JS.org provides a series of JavaScript tutorials suitable for both complete beginners and experienced programmers seeking to refresh their knowledge.
32. MDN JavaScript
MDN, from the creators of Firefox, offers a free JavaScript tutorial section as part of their Web Docs series. It’s a reputable and comprehensive resource.
Visit the Mozilla Developer Network’s JavaScript tutorials
33. Nodeschool.io
Nodeschool.io is a platform offering open-source workshops on Node.js that you can complete online. Start with the basics and explore their core workshops for a hands-on learning experience.
34. JavaScript.com
JavaScript.com offers a free, personalized tutorial to quickly get you started with the fundamentals of JavaScript. It’s a direct and efficient way to begin learning JS.
35. JavaScript for Cats
JavaScript for Cats is a unique and whimsical JavaScript tutorial written from a cat’s perspective. Despite its playful approach, it effectively teaches JavaScript concepts.
36. Microsoft Channel 9: JavaScript Fundamentals and Development for Absolute Beginners
Microsoft’s Channel 9 hosts video-based discussions, podcasts, and this free video course for JavaScript beginners. It’s a visual learning resource from Microsoft.
Extra JavaScript Courses & Tutorials
Related: Learn JavaScript for Free Online in 2024
Free JavaScript Libraries and Frameworks Courses
Once you have a grasp of JavaScript, exploring JavaScript frameworks and libraries can significantly enhance your coding efficiency and project complexity. These tools streamline development and are essential for modern JavaScript development.
Free Version Control Tutorials
Version control systems are crucial for collaborative coding. They allow multiple developers to work on the same codebase, track changes, and manage different versions of code. Git and GitHub are industry-standard tools in this domain.
37. Git Immersion
Git Immersion is a free walkthrough covering all the basics of Git, from installation to using graphical clients. It provides a comprehensive introduction to Git.
38. Try Git
Try Git offers resources for getting comfortable with Git and GitHub. Utilize their handbook, cheat sheets, and tutorials to get started with version control.
39. GitHub Learning Lab
GitHub Learning Lab is packed with lessons created by the GitHub community, covering topics from GitHub basics to Markdown, GitHub Pages, project uploads, and more. It’s an interactive way to learn GitHub.
Free Command Line Lessons
The command line is a fundamental tool for programmers, allowing direct interaction with the computer using text commands. Understanding the command line is essential for efficient software development.
40. Django Girls Introduction to the Command-Line Interface
Django Girls, known for free Python and Django workshops, offers a free command line tutorial for Windows, OS X, and Linux. It includes a YouTube video tutorial for visual learners.
Visit Django Girl’s Command Line Tutorial
41. Command Line Power User
Command Line Power User is a free tutorial designed to enhance your command line efficiency for development tasks, once you’ve grasped the basics.
Free Online Python Courses and Tutorials
Python is a versatile and widely used programming language, popular in fields like web development, data science, and software engineering. It’s an excellent language to learn for beginners due to its readability.
42. Learnpython.org
Learnpython.org offers free Python basics tutorials, exercises, and examples, designed to cover fundamental Python concepts and help you learn this highly sought-after language.
43. Python-Guide.Org: Hitchhiker’s Guide to Python
Python-guide.org provides the Hitchhiker’s Guide to Python, a comprehensive free online resource for learning Python, named humorously after The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
44. Real Python: Learn Python Programming By Example
Real Python offers example-based Python tutorials, articles, video courses, and quizzes, covering beginner to advanced topics. It’s a practical, hands-on approach to learning Python.
Extra Python Classes & Tutorials
[BONUS PYTHON GUIDE] Skillcrush offers a comprehensive Python course. While not free, they provide in-depth resources, including a guide on how to learn Python.
Free Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Resources
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are rapidly transforming the tech industry. Learning the basics of AI and ML can provide a significant career advantage.
45. AI for Everyone from DeepLearning.AI
AI for Everyone, offered by DeepLearning.AI and taught by AI expert Andrew Ng, is a free, non-technical course providing a broad understanding of AI concepts and terminology. It’s designed for a general audience.
46. Google AI
Google AI offers free machine learning training, tutorials, and guides, organized by skill level. It’s a valuable resource from a leader in AI technology.
Start with the following Google AI courses:
- Introduction to Machine Learning: A beginner-friendly ML introduction.
- Machine Learning Crash Course with TensorFlow APIs: Learn ML with Google’s TensorFlow.
47. Machine Learning Mastery
Machine Learning Mastery is a resource for developers looking to learn machine learning. It offers quick-start guides and in-depth tutorials for those with some coding background.
Visit Machine Learning Mastery
Want more AI learning resources? Check out our roundup of 40+ FREE Online AI Courses For Everyone
Free Online Data Science Courses and Tutorials
Data science is a rapidly growing field. You can start learning data science skills without a formal degree through these free online resources.
48. Springboard
Springboard offers various online courses in data analysis, data science, and engineering.
Start with Springboard’s free data science courses:
- Data Analysis With Python, SQL, and R: Learn key data analysis tools.
49. Elite Data Science
Elite Data Science specializes in helping individuals start careers in data science. They offer a free introductory crash course to get you started.
Related: Data Science 101: What It Is, What Data Scientists Do, and Real World Examples
Free User Experience (UX) Courses and Tutorials
User Experience (UX) design is crucial for creating user-friendly websites and applications. These free resources can introduce you to the world of UX.
50. The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction
The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction is a vast compilation of textbooks covering various aspects of human-computer interaction, from websites to smartphones.
Visit The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction
51. UXPin: Free UX Books
UXPin offers a collection of free UX-related books covering topics like prototyping, wireframing, and mockups. It’s a library of UX knowledge.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About UI/UX
Free Ruby and Ruby on Rails Courses and Tutorials
Ruby on Rails is a powerful web application framework. These free resources can help you learn Ruby and Rails.
52. Ruby on Rails Tutorial: Learn Web Development with Rails
Ruby on Rails Tutorial by Michael Hartl is a free digital book for learning web development with Rails. It’s a comprehensive, book-based learning approach.
53. Learn Ruby the Hard Way
Learn Ruby the Hard Way is a free online book emphasizing fundamental programming skills for beginners learning Ruby. It focuses on practical learning through coding exercises.
54. Ruby Koans
Ruby Koans uses the format of Zen koans to teach Ruby. It’s a unique and engaging way to learn through problem-solving and reflection.
Extra Ruby and Rails Classes & Tutorials
[BONUS RUBY ON RAILS GUIDE] If you’re unsure about Ruby on Rails, Skillcrush offers a beginner’s guide to Ruby on Rails to help you decide if it’s the right language for you.
Pssst. For those serious about Ruby, Skillcrush founder Adda shares insights on how to get hired as a Ruby developer.
Free PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) Classes and Tutorials
PHP is a widely-used open-source scripting language, particularly for web development. These free resources can guide you through learning PHP.
55. PHP The Right Way
PHP The Right Way offers free tutorials focused on teaching PHP best practices and modern techniques.
56. Killer PHP
Killer PHP provides free PHP lessons geared towards beginners and “non-nerds”, making PHP accessible to a wider audience.
Extra PHP Classes & Tutorials
Free Mobile App Development Courses and Tutorials
Mobile app development is a high-demand skill. These free resources can help you start learning to develop apps for Android and iOS.
57. Android Documentation for App Developers
Android Documentation for App Developers from Google provides official best practices and guides for Android app development. It’s an essential resource for aspiring Android developers.
Visit Android Developer Guides
58. Apple: Start Developing iOS Apps (Swift)
Apple’s tutorials and documentation are the official resources for learning iOS app development with Swift.
Extra Android & iOS Classes & Tutorials
Free WordPress Courses and Tutorials
WordPress powers a significant portion of the internet. Learning WordPress development is a valuable skill, and these free resources can help you get started.
59. WordPress.com Learn
WordPress.com Learn offers tutorials directly from the WordPress team to help you level up your WordPress skills.
If you’re a true WordPress beginner start with:
- Create Your Site: Learn to build your first WordPress site.
- Intro to Blogging: Get started with blogging on WordPress.
- Intro to SEO: Understand basic SEO principles for WordPress sites.
60. WordPress.tv
WordPress.tv is a central hub for WordPress-related video content, including WordCamps, tutorials, interviews, and talks on WordPress development and design, catering to all skill levels.
Extra WordPress Classes & Tutorials
Embark on Your Free Coding Journey Today!
The sheer volume of free resources available to learn to code is truly remarkable. From comprehensive platforms to specialized tutorials for specific languages and technologies, your pathway to coding proficiency can begin without any financial investment. Learning to code for free is an empowering opportunity to explore a new career path, enhance your skills, or simply satisfy your curiosity.
Take advantage of these incredible resources. Start with a beginner-friendly platform like Skillcrush’s Free Coding Camp or Codecademy to get a feel for coding. Explore languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web development, or Python for its versatility and applications in data science and AI.
The world of coding is open and accessible. Your journey to becoming a coder can start right now, completely free. Dive in, explore, and unlock your potential!
