Want to learn sign language but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. Many people are drawn to American Sign Language (ASL) to connect with deaf friends, family members with hearing loss, or simply to expand their communication skills. While in-person classes offer an immersive learning experience, they can be a barrier for those with budget or time constraints. The good news is that learning sign language online for free is absolutely achievable.
Although online learning can’t fully replicate the nuances of face-to-face interaction, numerous free resources empower motivated individuals to begin their ASL journey without spending a dime. If you’re ready to dedicate your time and effort, you can explore a wealth of beginner-friendly content. Forget expensive courses – this guide highlights the best completely free (or generously free) online options to Learn Sign Language Online Free.
Top Free Online Resources to Learn Sign Language
Navigating the world of online ASL resources can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a list of top-notch platforms offering free sign language education.
ASL University
When searching for free sign language resources, ASL University, created by Bill Vicars, consistently tops recommendations. Its comprehensive and well-organized structure sets it apart. Offering 60 lessons, ASL University covers a wide range of everyday topics, from food and clothing to emotions and daily routines. Each lesson features a roughly 40-minute video showcasing natural two-person conversations using the lesson’s vocabulary. Crucially, each vocabulary word is hyperlinked to a pop-up video demonstrating the correct sign.
Bill Vicars, who is deaf and brings years of experience teaching ASL at California State University, Sacramento, has created a truly valuable resource. Despite not being a formal institution, ASL University functions as an exceptional website packed with engaging and informative lessons. It’s an ideal starting point for beginners seeking a reliable and structured way to learn sign language online free.
StartASL
StartASL adopts a “freemium” model, offering substantial free content to get you started. While not everything is accessible without payment, the free lessons provide a solid foundation, particularly focusing on conversational practice and understanding ASL sentence structure. To enhance your learning, StartASL provides three free downloadable workbooks upon email signup, complementing the lessons.
These workbooks are particularly beneficial for learners who prefer hands-on practice and like to reinforce their learning through written exercises. As the name suggests, StartASL is tailored for beginners. If ASL University feels too detailed initially, StartASL offers a less overwhelming and more accessible entry point to spark your interest in learning sign language.
The ASL App
For those seeking the flexibility of learning on the go, The ASL App (available for iPhone and Android) is a fantastic mobile-first option. While it might not be as interactive as some desktop platforms, its user-friendly interface and accessibility make it particularly appealing to younger learners.
The ASL App provides free lessons covering numbers, the alphabet, and other essential basics. For more specialized vocabulary, thematic bundles are available for a small fee ($1 per bundle), or you can unlock the entire collection for $10. Notably, the app features demonstrations by Nyle DiMarco, a well-known model and deaf activist. The free content is a great starting point, and the affordable expansion packs cover unique topics not often found in other free resources, such as outdoor vocabulary and LGBT pride-related signs.
SignSchool
SignSchool offers a unique adaptive learning experience, allowing you to adjust the difficulty level to Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced based on your existing ASL knowledge. Lessons revolve around watching signing demonstrations and testing your comprehension through quizzes. Beyond structured lessons, SignSchool provides supplementary tools like a name sign generator and a fingerspelling practice game.
While occasional page loading issues were observed during testing, SignSchool remains a valuable platform to supplement your sign language learning journey. Account creation (free) requires an email address, and you have the option to receive a daily “sign of the day” email for consistent practice. Mobile apps for both iPhone and Android platforms are also available, enabling you to learn sign language anywhere, anytime.
TikTok
Social media platforms like TikTok can be surprisingly effective for casual sign language exposure. However, it’s crucial to approach content on platforms like TikTok and YouTube with a discerning eye. While many creators share content with good intentions, always verify information with reputable sources to ensure accuracy.
Searching TikTok with relevant hashtags like #LearnASL, #LearnToSign, and #SignLanguage will uncover a wealth of content. Many creators organize educational videos into playlists on their profiles for easy navigation.
Creators like Jon Urquhart (@drunkcrier) offer humorous and memorable ways to learn signs, while Zoey Hendrix (@zoeysensei), an ASL teacher, covers diverse topics ranging from medical signs to astrological terms. Phelan Conheady (@signinngwolf) provides valuable insights into deaf culture and communication from a younger perspective, enriching your understanding beyond just vocabulary.
YouTube
YouTube is a treasure trove of free sign language learning content, hosting numerous ASL instructors and educational channels. If you appreciate ASL University’s teaching style, Bill Vicars also has a dedicated YouTube channel for longer lessons. Furthermore, YouTube offers access to documentaries exploring ASL history and deaf culture, such as Signing Black in America and Through Deaf Eyes.
YouTube interface showing ASL learning channels and videos
For engaging and knowledgeable instruction, ASLMeredith is a highly recommended YouTube channel. The Learn How to Sign channel offers beginner-friendly videos like “150 Essential ASL Signs.” Interested in British Sign Language? Commanding Hands offers a glimpse into BSL.
Tips for Effective Free Online Sign Language Learning
To maximize your success in learning sign language online for free, consider these helpful tips:
- Consistency is Key: Regular, even short, practice sessions are more effective than infrequent long ones. Dedicate a specific time each day or week to your ASL learning.
- Combine Resources: Don’t rely on just one platform. Utilize a mix of websites, apps, and video channels to gain a well-rounded learning experience.
- Immerse Yourself: Beyond formal lessons, try to immerse yourself in ASL as much as possible. Watch videos of deaf individuals signing, explore deaf culture resources, and engage with online deaf communities (respectfully and cautiously).
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Sign language is a visual-spatial language. Practice signing in front of a mirror, record yourself, and try to find opportunities to practice with others, even online.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Learning online is different from in-person classes. Progress might be slower, and feedback might be less immediate. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories.
Start Your Free ASL Journey Today
Learning sign language online for free is not only possible but also highly accessible thanks to the wealth of resources available. Whether you prefer structured lessons, mobile apps, or engaging video content, there’s a free platform perfectly suited to your learning style. Take advantage of these incredible resources and begin your exciting journey into the world of ASL today!
