In one sentence, describe what the following article is about: Start by finding out how many credits you have and how many you still need to graduate. Online learning has gained a lot of traction in recent years, making it a great option for anyone who wants to take high school courses. Whether you're a teenager still of high school age who wants an alternative experience, or you're an adult who has spent years away from the classroom, there's an online learning program out there that will suit your individual needs.  Many states offer public online high school programs that are completely tuition free. In some cases, computer equipment and internet access is also compensated. Private online high schools often cater to particular groups of students, such as older students or those from a particular religious groups. These schools normally charge tuition, but financial aid is often available. Some colleges and universities offer online high school diploma programs. These are often geared toward students who wish to go on to enroll in the college after completing the high school program. It's very important to make sure the online program you choose is accredited as a high school. Programs advertised as being quick or easy aren't likely to cover the necessary subjects and provide the right kind of instruction. If you're interested in a particular program, call and ask if it's an accredited high school. If it's not, your diploma won't be accepted by universities and employers. Take the steps laid out by the program to enroll. You may need to provide a transcript from your previous high school experience, as well as standard personal information. Then you will need to sign up for courses and make a plan to fulfill the requirements of the program. Online high school diploma programs are similar to traditional high schools. Your courses will be taught by teachers with the same certifications as those who teach in traditional schools. You'll be assigned papers, projects, and other homework to complete in order to receive credit for the classes you take.  Many online programs use video conferencing technology to share lectures and facilitate discussions. You'll interact with your other classmates as well as the teacher. Some online programs also offer (or require) participation in science experiments, field trips, and other in-person events. Many programs have a physical education requirement, which you can usually fulfill on your own time. After you've completed the necessary coursework, passed your classes, and fulfilled all the requirements for finishing high school, you'll receive your high school diploma. The diploma will be dispensed differently depending on what program you attended.
Summary: Get a copy of your high school transcripts. Figure out what type of online school is right for you. Find one that's accredited. Enroll in the program. Complete the program. Receive your diploma.

In one sentence, describe what the following article is about: ”   When applying for a mortgage, some lenders may offer to pre-qualify or pre-approve you for a mortgage.  It’s important that you understand the distinction between the two and what they mean for your chances of purchasing a home.  Pre-qualification can help you understand how much you can afford and can serve as an aid when choosing which houses to consider. Ultimately, however, pre-qualification adds little else to the process.  Being pre-approved, on the other hand, can demonstrate to all concerned that you are serious about purchasing a home and add weight to your offer.   Being pre-qualified means a lender discussed your financial situation, credit and income and determined that you are qualified for a mortgage level indicated in the letter of qualification. Being pre-approved means the lender actually examined your credit and confirmed your financial information.  A pre-approval is the more significant of the two steps, because it is supported by documented evidence. Being pre-qualified is no guarantee that you will be approved for a mortgage.  Being pre-approved is also not a guarantee but is generally seen as indicating a high likelihood that the applicant will be approved. There are a number of possible fees associated with mortgage lending, so it’s important that you discuss them with a lender before applying for a mortgage.  Be sure you have a thorough understanding of the fees and additional expenses you will be expected to cover as a part of the mortgage process with each lender.   Ask for a written estimate of your costs that includes a breakdown of all associated expenses and fees. Ask questions about any fees that you don’t completely understand.  It is your money. Don’t be shy about asking. Lenders may also charge "points" on your mortgage. A point is equal to 1 percent of the mortgage loan amount. In contrast, "discount" points might be offered, which is an opportunity to reduce the interest paid on the loan by prepaying it in the form of points. A lender might charge "origination fee points," which is a vague but profit-boosting fee added to the cost of your loan. The different costs associated with purchasing a home are divided into two categories: real and negotiable costs. "Real" costs are non-negotiable and cannot be adjusted, while you may be able to negotiate the remaining costs.  Understanding the differences between the two can help you approach the discussion well equipped to limit any additional expenses attached to the home-buying process.  Examples of real costs are: expenses associated with obtaining your credit reports, inspecting the house and the appraisal of the property. Negotiable costs include the commission the lender charges you for their work.  Lenders usually receive a commission of between 1% and 2% of the price of the house, but a commission of up 4% is not unheard of.  This cost is completely negotiable, however. It's best to discuss this commission with the lender well before the day that escrow closes. The best way to get a good mortgage rate is to present a good credit history. In addition, you will want to do some homework to find the best rate(s) available. Your interest rate determines how much interest you will pay over the life of the loan. A lower interest rate will reduce your monthly payments and the total amount you pay for the house. Compare the interest rates offered by several lenders, and consider any special programs you may be qualified for.   You can track current mortgage rates online from different lenders in your area on websites like BankRate.com. To look at current rates, go to http://www.bankrate.com/funnel/mortgages/  Get your paperwork to the lender as soon as possible when you find a rate you like. Rates can change overnight. Check with your bank or credit union about any incentives or special mortgage programs they offer existing customers. After researching your lending options and making sure all of your questions are answered, compare the lenders you haven’t eliminated, and choose the one that seems right for you. You should feel comfortable working with the lender you choose, and you should be confident that they can help you navigate the mortgage process.   Remember that mortgages can last for decades, so it’s important to choose a lender you can work with. The lender you choose should be willing to provide you with advice on how to improve your credit and get approved through the application process.
Summary:
Learn the difference between “pre-qualified” and “pre-approved. Identify additional fees and prepayment penalties. Negotiate where you can. Analyze lenders' posted offerings. Select a lender.