Set your priorities. If you have a job and/or a family or other important aspects of your life, make sure you know where school comes on your priorities list. It's okay if it's not the number one item, but don't sign up for a full-time load if you are unable to commit to the schedule. Before you start your classes, know how much time you can devote to class time, homework and studying, among other aspects of school life.
Buy all of the necessary supplies. Obviously, you'll need a computer and Internet connection. You also may need certain computer programs or software or other equipment for certain classes. In addition to textbooks (online or print), you'll also likely need notebooks for taking notes or assignments, CDs of flash memory sticks, writing utensils, calculators and other general supplies. Have all the necessary items before the class starts, so you don't fall behind; most classes should have a list of supplies and required texts.
Be financially prepared. School costs include more than tuition. And just because you might be saving on room and board and dining hall meals by attending college online doesn't mean you won't have extra expenses for your classes. Be prepared to pay for textbooks, school supplies, specialized equipment and other items to successfully complete your class(es).
Create a plan. Your professor might have you complete a certain number of assignments in a set amount of time, but some may leave it up to you to complete assignments on your own time and take a final examination several months later. Whatever way your class is set up, know what amount of work you must complete each day or week to make your deadline or stay on track to be finished in a certain time period.
Stick to your schedule. Some online classes may have a certain set time they meet in a virtual "classroom," while others may require you to turn in work to your professor through email or another program. Either way, make a schedule and stick to it. Keep a calendar or planner to help you keep up with important dates, times and assignments, just like you would in a normal classroom. If you are completing your coursework in a home office or library somewhere, go to that place on your schedule and keep away from any distractions, such as television, visitors and appointments. If you have to miss your scheduled school time for an emergency, make it up as soon as possible so you don't fall behind.
Do your homework. Just because you may be sitting at home in your pajamas taking your online classes doesn't mean that counts as "homework." Professors might assign work for you to do outside of "class time" or in addition to other assignments. Even if they don't, always keep up with your reading, studying and/or practicing from the lessons you learn in the class.
Be organized. In addition to keeping a calendar or planner, keep your assignments and class information organized, either online, on your computer or in your home. If you have the space, set aside a place in your home or office for school supplies and materials, as well as an area where you can study or complete assignments. Online or on your computer, create folders for each class, and name documents appropriately to stay organized.
Keep up with your grades. Your professor might keep up with your grades or a computer program online might keep up with them, but let's face it, computers aren't always perfect; items get deleted, materials don't go through and things can get lost. Keep a copy of all of your assignments--a hard copy and a backed-up computer copy--and keep a record of any grades or assignments returned by your professor. That way, if anything goes wrong, you will have the evidence to back up your grades.