Learning to code has become an increasingly valuable skill, opening doors to countless opportunities in the tech industry and beyond. Fortunately, you don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive courses to get started. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your existing skillset, our expert team has handpicked a diverse range of options to suit various learning styles and programming languages. Read on to discover how you can embark on your coding journey without spending a penny, and trust our recommendations to guide you towards the most effective and user-friendly resources.
Codecademy
Codecademy offers an impressive array of interactive coding courses that cater to both beginners and intermediate learners. Their platform is known for its hands-on approach, allowing users to write and test code directly in the browser. This practical method helps reinforce learning and builds confidence as you progress through lessons.
The courses cover a wide range of programming languages and technologies, including Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and more. We’ve found that Codecademy’s step-by-step guidance and immediate feedback system make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a structured learning environment.
Key Features
- Interactive coding exercises
- Wide variety of programming languages and technologies
- Progress tracking and achievement badges
- Coding projects to build a portfolio
- Community forums for support and discussion
Codecademy’s free plan provides access to a limited selection of courses and features. For more advanced content, personalised learning paths, and real-world projects, users can upgrade to the Pro plan, which starts at £15.99 per month when billed annually.
freeCodeCamp
freeCodeCamp is a non-profit organisation that has gained a stellar reputation in the coding education community. It offers a vast array of free, self-paced coding courses that cover everything from web development to machine learning. What sets freeCodeCamp apart is its comprehensive curriculum structure, which is designed to take learners from complete beginners to job-ready developers.
The platform’s courses are project-based, encouraging hands-on learning and practical application of skills. We’ve found that the community-driven nature of freeCodeCamp, with its active forums and local study groups, provides an extra layer of support and motivation for learners.
Key Features
- Extensive curriculum covering multiple programming disciplines
- Project-based learning with real-world applications
- Certifications upon completion of course tracks
- Active community forums and support
- Coding challenges and algorithms practice
freeCodeCamp is entirely free, with no paid tiers or hidden costs. All courses, projects, and certifications are accessible to everyone at no charge, making it an excellent resource for those on a tight budget or looking to explore coding without financial commitment.
Coursera
Coursera partners with top universities and organisations worldwide to offer high-quality online courses, including many in computer science and programming. While Coursera is primarily a paid platform, it does provide a selection of free courses that learners can audit. These free options give access to video lectures, readings, and some course materials.
From our experience, Coursera’s free courses are particularly valuable for those seeking a more academic approach to coding, as they often mirror university-level content. The platform’s user-friendly interface and well-structured course layouts make it easy to navigate and track progress.
Key Features
- Courses from renowned institutions and tech companies
- Varied difficulty levels from beginner to advanced
- Video lectures with transcripts and subtitles
- Peer-reviewed assignments in some courses
- Discussion forums for student interaction
While many courses can be audited for free, full access to graded assignments and certificates typically requires payment. Course prices vary, but many are available as part of Coursera Plus, a subscription service that costs around £45 per month or £340 annually, granting access to most of the platform’s content.
edX
edX, founded by Harvard and MIT, offers a wide range of online courses, including numerous options in computer science and programming. The platform provides access to high-quality educational content from prestigious universities and institutions worldwide. We’ve found that edX’s free courses are particularly beneficial for those seeking a structured, academic approach to learning coding.
The courses often include video lectures, interactive exercises, and discussion forums, allowing learners to engage with the material in various ways. While the free option doesn’t include graded assignments or certificates, it still provides substantial value for self-motivated learners.
Key Features
- Courses from top universities and institutions
- Self-paced learning options
- Video lectures with transcripts
- Interactive coding exercises in some courses
- Discussion forums for peer interaction
edX offers free access to course materials, but certificates and graded assignments require payment. Verified certificates typically cost between £40 to £250, depending on the course. Some courses are part of professional certificate programs or MicroMasters, which have their own pricing structures.
Udacity
Udacity is known for its industry-focused Nanodegree programs, but it also offers a selection of free courses in various tech fields, including programming. While the free content is more limited compared to their paid offerings, it still provides valuable learning opportunities.
Udacity’s courses are designed with input from industry leaders, ensuring that the content is relevant and up-to-date. From our testing, we found that Udacity’s free courses often serve as excellent introductions to specific technologies or concepts, making them ideal for learners who want to explore a topic before committing to a full program.
Key Features
- Industry-aligned course content
- Video lectures with transcripts
- Hands-on projects in some free courses
- Self-paced learning
- Access to course forums
Udacity offers free courses with limited features, while their Nanodegree programs are paid. Free trials for Nanodegree programs are occasionally available, typically lasting 7 days. After the trial, Nanodegree programs cost around £300 to £1,200, depending on the program length and content.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a non-profit educational organisation that offers a wide range of free courses, including several in computer programming. The platform is particularly well-suited for beginners and young learners, with its friendly, accessible approach to teaching coding concepts.
We’ve found that Khan Academy’s computer science courses provide a solid foundation in programming basics, covering topics like JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and SQL. The bite-sized lessons and interactive coding environment make it easy for learners to practice and reinforce their skills. While it may not offer the depth of some other platforms, Khan Academy excels in making coding accessible and enjoyable for newcomers.
Key Features
- Beginner-friendly coding courses
- Interactive coding environment
- Short, focused video lessons
- Progress tracking and gamification elements
- Exercises and quizzes to reinforce learning
All of Khan Academy’s content is completely free, with no paid tiers or hidden costs. The platform is supported by donations and grants, allowing it to provide high-quality educational resources at no cost to learners.
Udemy
Udemy is a vast online learning marketplace that offers both paid and free courses in various subjects, including programming and web development. While the platform is best known for its paid courses, it also hosts a significant number of free coding courses.
These free offerings vary in quality and depth, but many provide valuable introductions to programming languages and concepts. From our experience, Udemy’s free courses can be an excellent way to sample different coding topics or instructors before investing in paid content. The platform’s user-friendly interface and mobile app make it easy to access course materials on various devices.
Key Features
- Wide variety of free programming courses
- Video lectures with downloadable resources
- Lifetime access to course materials
- Mobile app for on-the-go learning
- Student Q&A sections for each course
Udemy offers many free courses alongside its paid offerings. Paid courses typically range from £10 to £150, often with significant discounts available. Once purchased, users have lifetime access to the course materials.
MIT OpenCourseWare
MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW) is a web-based publication of virtually all MIT course content, offering free access to high-quality educational materials from one of the world’s leading institutions in technology and computer science. The platform provides a wealth of resources for learning various aspects of programming and computer science, from introductory courses to advanced topics.
We’ve found that OCW’s courses are particularly valuable for self-motivated learners who appreciate a rigorous, academic approach to coding education. While the courses lack the interactive elements of some other platforms, they compensate with depth and breadth of content, often including lecture notes, assignments, and sometimes video lectures.
Key Features
- University-level computer science and programming courses
- Comprehensive course materials including syllabi, lectures, and assignments
- Some courses include video lectures
- Wide range of topics from basic programming to advanced algorithms
- Self-paced learning with no registration required
All content on MIT OpenCourseWare is completely free and open to the public. There are no paid tiers or hidden costs, allowing learners to access world-class educational materials at no charge.
Pluralsight
Pluralsight is a technology skills platform that offers a vast library of expert-led video courses in various tech fields, including software development. While primarily a paid service, Pluralsight offers a free trial that allows users to explore their extensive course catalogue. From our testing, we found that Pluralsight’s courses are particularly suited for intermediate to advanced learners looking to expand their coding skills or stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.
The platform’s well-structured courses and high-quality video content make for an engaging learning experience. Pluralsight also offers unique features like skill assessments and personalised learning paths, which can help guide your learning journey.
Key Features
- Extensive library of expert-led video courses
- Skill assessments to gauge your proficiency
- Personalised learning paths
- Interactive courses with coding challenges
- Mobile and offline viewing options
Pluralsight offers a 10-day free trial that provides full access to their course library and features. After the trial, subscriptions start at around £24 per month or £240 per year for the Standard plan, with higher tiers offering additional features.
SoloLearn
SoloLearn is a mobile-first learning platform that offers bite-sized coding lessons in various programming languages. The app’s gamified approach to learning makes it particularly appealing for beginners and those who prefer to learn on-the-go. We’ve found that SoloLearn’s short, interactive lessons are excellent for building coding habits and maintaining consistent practice.
The platform covers a wide range of programming languages and concepts, from web development to data science. While the free version provides access to a substantial amount of content, some advanced features and courses are reserved for paid subscribers.
Key Features
- Mobile-friendly, bite-sized coding lessons
- Interactive coding playground
- Gamified learning with achievements and leaderboards
- Community Q&A for peer support
- Code challenges and projects
SoloLearn’s free plan offers access to a wide range of courses and basic features. The Pro plan, which unlocks additional content, ad-free experience, and offline mode, is priced at around £6.99 per month or £54.99 per year.
How to choose the best free coding courses for you
Assess your learning goals and experience level
When selecting a free coding course, it’s essential to consider your current programming knowledge and ultimate objectives. Are you a complete beginner looking to grasp the basics, or do you have some experience and want to enhance your skills in a specific language or framework? Courses tailored to your proficiency level will provide the most effective learning experience. Additionally, think about your career aspirations or personal projects you’d like to tackle. This will help you choose courses that align with your long-term goals and keep you motivated throughout your learning journey.
Evaluate course content and structure
Examine the curriculum of potential free coding courses to ensure they cover the topics you’re interested in. Look for courses that offer a well-organised structure with clear learning objectives for each module. Consider whether the course provides a balance of theoretical concepts and practical exercises. Hands-on coding projects and real-world applications can significantly enhance your understanding and skill development. Also, check if the course includes quizzes, assignments, or peer reviews to reinforce your learning and provide opportunities for feedback.
Consider the platform and learning resources
The platform hosting the free coding course can greatly impact your learning experience. Look for user-friendly interfaces and reliable technical support. Some platforms offer additional resources such as forums, chat support, or mentor guidance, which can be invaluable when you encounter challenges. Consider whether the course materials are accessible offline or if you need a constant internet connection. Finally, check if the course provides a certificate upon completion, as this can be a useful addition to your CV or portfolio, even if it’s from a free course.
Which Free Coding Course Is Best?
freeCodeCamp offers an excellent foundation for those just starting their coding journey. With its thorough curriculum and hands-on approach, you can progress from basic concepts to more advanced topics at your own pace. The platform’s community-driven nature also provides valuable support and encouragement. We recommend freeCodeCamp if you thrive in a supportive, interactive learning environment and are new to coding.
When it comes to university-level content, MIT OpenCourseWare is hard to beat. It provides access to actual MIT course materials, allowing you to learn from some of the world’s leading computer science experts. While it may require more self-discipline, the depth and quality of the content make it an outstanding choice for serious learners. We recommend MIT OpenCourseWare if you’re self-motivated and seeking rigorous, academic-level instruction.
Coursera is great for a more structured learning experience with professional certification options. Although not all courses are free, many offer free auditing options, giving you access to high-quality content from top universities and tech companies. The platform’s diverse range of courses caters to various skill levels and programming languages, making it suitable whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced coder looking to expand your skillset. We recommend Coursera if you prefer a structured approach and value the option of earning professional certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Coding Courses
Are free coding courses as good as paid ones?
Free coding courses can be just as valuable as paid ones, depending on your learning style and goals. Many free courses offer high-quality content created by industry experts. However, paid courses may offer more comprehensive support, personalised feedback, and certificates upon completion.
How long does it take to learn coding through free online courses?
The time it takes to learn coding varies greatly depending on the individual, the programming language, and the intensity of study. Some basics can be grasped in a few weeks, while becoming proficient may take several months to a year of consistent practice.
Which programming language should I start with?
For beginners, popular starting languages include Python, JavaScript, or HTML/CSS. Python is known for its readability, JavaScript is essential for web development, and HTML/CSS are fundamental for creating web pages. Your choice may depend on your goals and the type of projects you want to work on.
Do I need any special software or equipment to take these free coding courses?
Most free coding courses can be accessed with just a computer and an internet connection. Some courses may require you to download specific software or tools, but these are often free and will be specified in the course requirements.
Can I get a job after completing free coding courses?
While free courses can certainly help you build skills, landing a job typically requires more than just course completion. Employers often look for practical experience, a portfolio of projects, and sometimes formal qualifications. However, the skills learned in free courses can be a great starting point for building a coding career.
Are certificates from free coding courses recognised by employers?
The recognition of certificates varies. While some employers may value the skills and knowledge gained more than the certificate itself, others might prefer certifications from well-known institutions or paid programmes. However, free courses from platforms like Coursera or edX, which partner with universities, may offer more widely recognised certificates.
How do I stay motivated when taking a free online coding course?
Staying motivated can be challenging, but setting clear goals, creating a study schedule, joining online coding communities, and working on personal projects can help. Many platforms also offer forums or study groups where you can connect with other learners for support and motivation.
Can I switch between different free coding courses or platforms?
Absolutely! In fact, using multiple resources can be beneficial as different platforms may explain concepts in varying ways. This can help reinforce your learning and provide a more well-rounded understanding of coding concepts.
What’s the difference between free trials and completely free courses?
Free trials, like those offered by Udacity or Pluralsight, provide temporary access to their full range of courses but require payment after the trial period. Completely free courses, such as those on freeCodeCamp or Khan Academy, are accessible indefinitely without charge. However, they may not offer as many features or as much content as paid options.
How often are free coding courses updated?
Update frequency varies by platform. Some, like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp, regularly update their content to keep pace with industry changes. Others, particularly those offering university courses like MIT OpenCourseWare, may update less frequently. It’s always a good idea to check the last update date of a course before starting.
