Top 10 Free Learning Management Systems in 2025: Buyer’s Guide

I had a conversation with a peer HR who was stuck. Her “free” LMS locked reporting and certificates behind a paywall right when training went live.

That one story turned into dozens. Small teams, L&D managers, and even nonprofits all said the same thing: We need a free LMS, but every platform hides the essential features.

So, I spent 6+ months researching, testing, and comparing tools to find the ones that are actually free and still useful.

 I’ve checked what they offer, what they hide, and who they work best for. Plus, I’ve kept it real about the trade-offs so you don’t waste time.

Why Free LMS Platforms Still Matter in 2025

Training today doesn’t look like it did five years ago, and neither do LMS platforms. Free plans aren’t just glorified trials anymore.

Many come loaded with the essentials from day one, making them a legit long-term option rather than just a quick test drive.

1. Budgets are still tight: Most teams don’t spend money on software unless it delivers value. Honestly, many small teams, nonprofits, and solo educators can run full training programs well within the limits of a free LMS if they pick smart.
2. AI isn’t locked behind a paywall anymore: Tools like ProProfs let you create full courses with AI for free. What used to be premium is now accessible, and that’s a game-changer for small orgs trying to move fast without a content team.
3. Need SCORM or compliance features? That’s no longer a dealbreaker if you’re on a budget. Even free plans now come with SCORM or xAPI support, which means industries like healthcare or manufacturing can stay compliant without paying up.
4. Remote teams are the new normal: If you’re training people across time zones, you need something flexible and scalable. Free LMS platforms offer that without per-user fees piling up.
5. Start free, scale smart: More orgs are skipping the big software contracts upfront. They’re starting small, building a case for ROI, and only upgrading when it makes sense. That’s exactly where free LMS platforms fit in.

List of the 10 Best Free LMS Software

No ‘LMS free trial’ trickery. All the tools in the list are entirely free, but yes, they do have certain limitations.

I created this list based on my personal experience with each tool and recommendations from my peers. I also considered customer testimonials from different forums and reviews on software comparison sites.

Here’s a quick summary of my top 10 tools:

1. ProProfs Training Maker

Best for easy online employee training & LMS

ProProfs Training Maker is one of the few free AI LMS platforms that actually gets out of your way and lets you build. The interface is simple, the setup is fast, and its AI course builder does more than just suggest; it builds full course structures that make sense. I typed in a topic, and within minutes, I had lessons, quizzes, and a working course ready to go.

You can start with templates or upload your own stuff, but either way, it doesn’t slow you down. This AI LMS gives you just enough control without drowning you in options. And the reporting? Clean, useful, and ready to send to whoever needs proof that your training works.

If you want to stop messing around with bloated tools and actually launch something that works, ProProfs Training Maker is a solid bet.

Key Features of ProProfs Training Maker:

• A wide range of content formats in 70+ languages, including quizzes and assessments, surveys, videos, documents, and presentations.
• Personalized learning paths and self-paced options for tailored learning experiences.
• SCORM/Tin Can compliance for a smooth learning experience and compatibility with other platforms.
• Single sign-on (SSO) and multi-admin capabilities.
• Users can add quizzes, surveys, flashcards, and more to create engaging courses.

Pros:

• 500+ Pre-built courses and templates that make creating courses effortless and time-effective.
• Lets you adapt courses to fit your brand and training objectives seamlessly.
• Robust analytics to help measure training effectiveness and make informed decisions.

Cons: 

• No downloadable/on-premise version available.
• Can’t choose between light or dark mode.

Pricing:

Forever FREE plan for small teams. Paid plan starts at $1.99 per active learner/month with a 15-day money-back guarantee. There are no hidden charges.

Watch: How Tupperware Improved Employee Training with Manufacturing LMS

2. Chamilo

Best for social learning & academic activities

Chamilo LMS is a versatile, open-source platform I used to create and manage online courses. Its dynamic social learning network is quite good.

The platform is user-friendly and customizable. Another great thing about it is its scalability—it can be used by small organizations, startups, and larger institutions as well.

You can know how much your learners have progressed and the effectiveness of your course from its built-in analytics dashboard. I’d say it’s a good tool with a strong focus on shared learning. You can use that goal and get good results if that’s your goal.

Key Features of Chamilo:

• Multilingual support for creating courses.
• Easy to access on mobile devices.
• SCORM Compliance and certificate management.
• High-level customization for its course templates in terms of themes.
• Social learning surveys and feedback to boost engagement among learners and trainers.

Pros:

• Simple, user-friendly interface.
• Supports multiple languages.
• Built-in eLearning tools like quizzes and certificates.

Cons:

• Very few templates to choose from.
• Databases are heavy and hard to download.

Pricing:

Free (limited to basic features). Custom pricing.

3. MyiCourse

Best for community education & collaborative learning

I heard about MyiCourse from a colleague while looking for a free LMS software for a community education program. We needed an LMS that could accommodate diverse learners and a wide range of subjects, from basic literacy to vocational skills. Although I didn’t end up using the tool, my research tells me that MyiCourse would fit the bill perfectly. 

As one of the best free LMS systems, the tool focuses on community and collaboration. Learners can easily connect and their instructors through forums and discussion boards, which I think is a great feature for fostering a sense of belonging and shared learning.

Key Features of MyiCourse:

• Accommodates various content formats, from documents and videos to quizzes and surveys, offering diverse learning experiences.
• Brand and customize your courses, creating a cohesive learning environment.
• SSL encryption to ensure data protection.
• You can add images, slides, videos, and other such elements in courses.
• Built-in communication tools that boost training engagement.

Pros:

• Fully cloud-based with no setup hassle.
• Customizable branding options.
• Affordable pricing structure.

Cons:

• There’s a limit on the size of multimedia you can add to courses.
• The UI is outdated and can be difficult to navigate.

Pricing:

Free version available (10% royalty applies if course fees are charged).Paid starts from $50/month for private courses.

4. Sakai

Best for self-paced modules & academic learning

I used Sakai briefly while still experimenting with free online learning management systems, and I was pretty impressed. I’ll tell you why.  Learners can readily create learning pathways with defined milestones and navigate through the material at their own pace.

The platform also supports a wide range of content formats, from text documents and videos to interactive simulations and assessments, which I think helps trainees learn the course with ease.

Key Features of Sakai:

• You can customize lessons and modules with resources, quizzes, tests, assignments, links, videos, and more.
• Conditional release feature so you can control access to training materials.
• Simple quiz creation with multiple-choice or fill-in-the-blank options.
• The ability to randomize questions in assignments.

Pros:

• Open-source and highly flexible.
• Strong collaboration tools (forums, messaging).
• Frequent updates from an active community.

Cons:

• Doesn’t automatically save assignments.
• Occasional slowdowns can be frustrating.

Pricing:

Free (Limited storage space). Custom pricing available on request.

5. Moodle 

Best for open-source learning

Moodle is an incredibly popular, open-source LMS with a wide array of features. You can customize and design courses that fit your needs with complete control over their look.

It offers hundreds of plugins and integrations with third-party platforms and content repositories. You can also automate many manual tasks and create learning journeys specific to different teams.

Other noteworthy aspects include dashboard access to calendar events and deadlines, convenient file management, stellar customer support, and scalability.

Key Features of Moodle:

• A comprehensive gradebook to track individual learners’ progress and pinpoint areas for improvement.
• Ability to personalize courses to match your business needs and learners’ preferences.
• The mobile app allows learners to access course materials and resources offline.
• Competency-based learning, where you can design and assess learning based on specific skills.
• An active community of learners and trainers.

Pros:

• Free and open-source with extensive plugins.
• Supports multimedia course content.
• Scalable for small to large institutions.

Cons:

• Dependence on third-party plugins may introduce security and stability concerns.
• Maintaining performance can be challenging as the number of users grows.

Pricing:

Free (You need to host it on a server that needs technical expertise and resources). Paid plan starts at $200 AUD.

6. Google Classroom

Best for K-12 schools & G-Suite users

When it comes to free stuff, Google is a household name. It may surprise many, but Google offers a free learning management system called Google Classroom, and I have used it extensively to teach K-12 students.

Like most other Google Suite tools, Google Classroom offers many features you’d need to run simple courses, create assignments, grade them, and give feedback. You can also integrate with Google Workspace, which means you don’t need to manually export data to apps like Google Sheets for further processing. 

Key Features of Google Classroom:

• Easy integration with Google Workspace tools like Docs and Drive.
• Learners can comment on pictures & create URLs to them for further reference.
• User-friendly interface suitable for younger students.
• Simplifies assignment management and grading.
• Accessible on multiple devices with a mobile-friendly design.

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Google tools.
• Simple setup and sharing for assignments.
• Works well for remote learning.

Cons:

• Doesn’t allow access from multiple domains.​
• Document-sharing permissions can confuse new users.

Pricing:

Free (Does not come with Google Workspace).

7. Schoology

Best for supporting blended learning in schools

I’ve used Schoology in my blended learning classes and found it a reliable and practical tool. I can easily upload syllabi, presentations, and readings and even embed videos directly into the platform.

It even has a built-in gradebook that automatically tracks student progress, which saved me a lot of time.

The communication tools are sufficient for basic needs – I can send announcements to the entire class, create discussion forums for group projects, and message individual students.

Key Features of Schoology:

• Easy-to-use interface with intuitive navigation.
• Efficient student-teacher communication tools, including messaging and email.
• Automated grading system that saves time for educators.
• Seamless integration with over 200 third-party tools and platforms.
• Mobile support ensures learning on the go via apps.

Pros:

• Intuitive interface for K-12 and higher ed.
• Strong assessment and grading features.
• Integrates well with many third-party tools.

Cons:

• The need to create, edit, and grade assessments exclusively on the web can be limiting.
• The color-coding and folder structure can be less effective than other platforms.

Pricing:

Free plan (Comes with limited features). Custom pricing.

8. ATutor

Best for accessible e-Learning content

While searching for a truly accessible free online LMS, I came across ATutor, and I’ve been impressed with its commitment to inclusivity. For example, it has excellent screen reader compatibility, which is essential for students who are blind or have low vision.

The platform also allows for keyboard navigation, so students who have difficulty using a mouse can easily access all the features.

The tool supports videos, transcripts for audio files, and alternative text descriptions for images as well.

Key Features of ATutor:

• Open-source with free access.
• Customizable and adaptable to different learning needs.
• Rich set of tools for accessibility and inclusivity.
• Strong community support with detailed documentation.
• Affordable pricing for hosted versions.

Pros:

• Fully accessible, meeting WCAG standards.
• Lightweight and easy to install.
• Customizable themes and features

Cons:

• Requires technical expertise for initial setup​.
• Outdated interface design​.

Pricing:

Free (Lacks advanced reporting). Custom pricing.

9. Canvas

Best for higher education & corporate training

I discovered Canvas on a trusted review website while I was scouring for an LMS for higher education. From what I understand, it’s particularly well-suited for higher education and corporate training, though I can see it working well in other contexts, too.

Users can organize courses with modules, upload a variety of materials, and create interactive assignments, and the mobile app is a convenient addition for both the instructor and the learners.

Key Features of Canvas:

• User-friendly interface with easy access to course materials.
• Strong mobile compatibility for on-the-go learning.
• Customizable course creation and assessments.
• Excellent for tracking progress and certifications.
• Extensive integration with third-party tools.

Pros:

• Modern interface with mobile support.
• Advanced analytics and reporting tools.
• Broad third-party app integration.

Cons:

• Mic and camera can stop functioning due to glitches sometimes.
• Tight assignment deadlines can be frustrating, with penalties for late submissions even by seconds.

Pricing:

Free (Limited to basic features). Custom pricing.

10. Open edX 

Best for higher education & corporate training

I was recently helping a friend research different LMS options when I stumbled upon Open edX. Even with a quick test drive, I was impressed by how much flexibility Open edX offers.

You can customize the look and feel of your courses, create different types of interactive activities, and even bring in other tools to enrich the learning experience.

Key Features of Open edX:

• Extensive customization with XBlocks and APIs.
• Scalability for large audiences and complex needs.
• Open-source with a wide community for support.
• Ability to integrate third-party tools like Google Analytics and YouTube.
• Free and low-cost alternative for self-hosting.

Pros:

• Scalable for massive online courses.
• Open-source with flexible customization.
• Rich interactive features like forums and videos.

Cons:

• Requires technical expertise for customization and maintenance
• Hosting and maintenance can incur additional costs unless using third-party services​

Pricing:

Free (hosting costs for advanced use). Custom pricing.

Choosing the Right LMS: 5 Things to Look For (Even If It’s Free)

Not all free LMS platforms are worth your time. Some are surprisingly capable, while others feel like you’re being punished for not paying. Here’s what to actually look for before you commit.

1. A User Experience That Doesn’t Frustrate Learners

If your team can’t figure out how to log in, find their course, or finish a module without help, you’ve already lost. A good LMS, even a free one, should be simple to navigate, mobile-friendly, and clean enough for anyone to use within minutes.

Watch out for messy navigation, slow-loading pages, or platforms that require too many clicks to complete simple tasks. These do not save money; instead, they waste time.

2. Flexibility in How You Build & Organize Content

Your training needs won’t stay the same forever. Maybe you’re starting with a few PDFs or videos, but later you’ll want to upload SCORM files, add quizzes, or build full learning paths.

A good LMS should let you mix and match content formats and organize them in a way that actually fits how your team learns.

If the platform limits you to a rigid path or blocks certain content types, it will only slow you down later.

3. Tracking That Actually Tells You Something

You shouldn’t have to guess who completed what or how they performed. Your LMS should clearly show learner progress, quiz results, time spent, and course completion. You should also be able to export this data easily for team reporting.

If the reports are too vague or buried under confusing menus, they’re not doing their job.

4. Room to Grow Without Getting Boxed In

A good LMS grows with you. The free plan should be upfront about user limits, storage, and what happens if you expand. You want a smooth upgrade path that doesn’t require you to rebuild your whole setup.

Avoid platforms that abruptly cut you off, charge a considerable price increase, or do not offer a way to migrate your content.

5. Support That Doesn’t Disappear When You Need It

Even free users deserve support. Check if the platform has clear documentation, a responsive community, and a way to get help when things break.

If you can’t find updated help articles or there is no sign of an active support team, that’s a dealbreaker.

Free vs Paid LMS: When Does Upgrading Make Sense?

Choosing between a free and paid LMS isn’t just about features; it’s about what your team needs right now and how fast you’re planning to grow. Here’s how to think through that decision.

When a Free LMS Makes Sense:

1. You’re training under 50 users.

Most free platforms can easily support small teams or pilot programs. If you’re running internal sessions or workshops, you likely won’t hit any significant limits.

2. Your training goals are simple.

If all you need is basic course delivery, progress tracking, and certificates, there’s no reason to rush into a paid plan. Many free LMS tools offer precisely that, without the fluff.

3. You’re a nonprofit, educator, or startup in the early phase.

Several platforms offer stronger free plans for educational or nonprofit use. If you’re testing a new training model, building community programs, or running internal team training, a free LMS can do the job without stretching your budget.

4. You don’t need complex integrations.

If you’re not connecting the LMS with your CRM, HRIS, or Slack, then free options usually offer enough, especially if you’re uploading content manually and tracking results inside the platform.

When It’s Time to Go Paid:

1. You’re scaling past 100 users.

Once you cross that mark, free plans can start to feel tight. User caps, limited reporting, or platform slowdowns often kick in at this point.

2. You’re managing training across multiple teams.

Department-level training, role-based access, and segmented reporting all require stronger admin controls, something most free plans don’t offer.

3. You need enterprise-level features.

If your org needs single sign-on, custom branding, API access, or strict data security policies, you’ll find those features locked behind paid plans. This is especially common in regulated industries.

4. You’re tracking compliance or legal training.

For mandatory training, you’ll need audit trails, certificate renewal tracking, and compliance dashboards. Free tools may help you get started, but paid platforms are built to manage risk at scale.

5. You’re offering training that ties directly to revenue.

Whether you’re onboarding customers, selling courses, or supporting professional development, paid LMS platforms offer advanced analytics and better content control to drive measurable results.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Free LMS

Okay, I might get in trouble for this… but I promised a real list.

Here’s how to stretch your free LMS to do more than most people think, without breaking anything or burning out.

1. Start With a Content Audit, Not a Blank Page

Before you build new courses, look at what you already have. Think onboarding docs, slide decks, and internal guides. Focus on 3 to 5 topics that actually help your team work better right now. You don’t need more content. You need the right content.

2. Design Like Your Learners Are on Their Phones

Because most of them are. Keep lessons short and easy to complete in one go. Break things into 5 to 10-minute chunks. Use responsive templates, and keep videos under 3 minutes when you can.

3. Use the Analytics, Even If They’re Basic

Track what the platform gives you, like completions, quiz scores, and time spent. Use pre- and post-assessments to see improvement. If built-in surveys are missing, link them to a Google Form. It’s simple and effective.

4. Automate the Repetitive Stuff

Most free LMS plans let you automate more than you’d expect. Set up auto-enrollment, certificates, and reminders. Use templates to save time and keep your courses consistent.

5. Start With One Smart Integration

Pick a tool you already use, like Slack, Google Workspace, or Zapier. Even something small, like sending a course reminder to a team channel, can save you from doing it manually.

6. Track What You’ll Need Later

Keep a running list of things your LMS can’t do yet. Maybe you hit a user limit, want better reports, or need custom branding. When it’s time to upgrade, you’ll already know what matters.

Choose the Free LMS That Fits You, Not the Other Way Around

Free doesn’t have to mean cutting corners. The right LMS can help you create real training, track what matters, and support your learners without forcing you into a paid plan on day one.

If you’re just getting started, choose something that meets your goals now and can grow with you later.

Platforms like ProProfs Training Maker make it easy to build and manage courses, even if you’re working with limited time or resources. You get AI tools, SCORM support, and progress tracking, all in the free version.

It doesn’t have to be perfect from the start. Pick a tool, try it out, and see what works best for your team. What matters most is getting your learners what they need.

Pick one tool today. See how far it takes you, for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I move my content and user data if I outgrow a free LMS?

Some free LMS platforms make it hard to export your content or learner data. Before choosing one, check if it supports standard exports like SCORM or CSV files. For example, ProProfs Training Maker lets you export content even in its free plan, while tools like Google Classroom are more limited. Always test the export options early to avoid being locked in later.

What happens to my courses if a free LMS shuts down or changes its free plan?

Free tools can change without warning; they might limit features or shut down altogether. Make sure the LMS you choose has a clear data backup or export policy. Open-source options like Moodle give you more control since you can self-host, but they take more technical work. With cloud-based platforms, look for at least a 30-day notice period and easy export tools.

Can I use a free LMS to sell my courses?

Some free platforms allow it, others don’t. For instance, ProProfs Training Maker lets you sell courses on a free plan, but tools like MyiCourse charge a 10% royalty. Always read the terms of service carefully to check for limits on commercial use, branding rules, or hidden fees.

Are free LMS platforms safe for compliance training like GDPR or HIPAA?

Most free LMS platforms don’t meet full compliance standards, but some cover the basics. ProProfs Training Maker offers SSL encryption, secure data handling, and SCORM support even on the free plan, which is enough for many use cases. For stricter needs like HIPAA or financial compliance, check if the platform provides DPAs, audit logs, and region-specific data storage.

What does “free” actually cost when you add up time and effort?

Free LMS tools often take time to set up and manage. You might need to spend hours on customization, maintenance, or manual workarounds. If you're using a self-hosted tool like Moodle, add server costs and technical help to the mix. In some cases, a low-cost paid plan can save you more time and stress than a “free” tool that eats up 10+ hours a week.