Top Study Tools & Apps for Students Studying Online

PUBLISHED23 May 2025

WRITTEN BYAllison Roos

Studying online offers unmatched flexibility and convenience – but it also requires smart planning, discipline, and the right tools. At Kirana Colleges, our online learning experience is built around flexibility and support, giving you the resources you need to succeed from day one.

Whether you’re juggling work, parenting, or upskilling for a new career, these study tools and apps can help you stay focused, organised, and connected throughout your learning journey.

Start with Canvas: Your Online Learning Hub

All Kirana students access their courses through Canvas, our intuitive and easy-to-use online learning platform. Inside Canvas, you’ll find everything you need:

Course modules
Discussion boards
Assignment submissions
Feedback from trainers
Important announcements and deadlines

Canvas is mobile-friendly too, so you can check in on your progress or submit an assignment straight from your phone.

💡 Tip: Bookmark your Canvas login page and set a weekly schedule reminder to stay on top of your study goals.

Essential Study Tools & Apps for Online Learning

Here are some top-rated apps and platforms used by successful online students:

1. Trello or Notion – Organise Your Study Schedule

Use Trello or Notion to create to-do lists, weekly study plans, and track assignment deadlines. These visual planners help you break down tasks and keep everything in one place.

2. Grammarly – Improve Your Writing

Grammarly is a free writing assistant that checks grammar, spelling, tone, and clarity. Perfect for writing assessments, emails, or discussion posts with confidence.

3. Forest or Focus Keeper – Stay Focused

Apps like Forest help you focus by encouraging screen-free time. Focus Keeper uses the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work, 5 minutes break) to improve productivity.

4. Google Drive or OneDrive – Back Up Your Work

Use cloud storage to save your assignments, notes, and reference material. This means you can access them anywhere and never worry about losing a file.

5. Quizlet – Boost Memory with Flashcards

Make digital flashcards to help memorise key concepts, definitions, or terms. Great for quick reviews before assessments or quizzes.

Support When You Need It: Access EAP

At Kirana Colleges, we know that life’s challenges can sometimes get in the way of your studies. That’s why we’ve partnered with AccessEAP to provide students with free, confidential support through our Student Assistance Program.

This initiative is designed to help you manage personal issues before they become bigger distractions that impact your home life or study progress.

What’s included:

24/7 dedicated counselling hotline, available 365 days a year
Up to 3 complimentary face-to-face counselling sessions, either in person or via Skype
Support for a wide range of issues including stress, mental health, relationships, or financial concerns

🌱 Studying online doesn’t mean doing it alone. We’re here to support your whole journey

Final Tips for Online Study Success

Create a dedicated study space at home with minimal distractions
Set weekly goals using a planner or digital calendar
Reach out to your trainers or support team via Canvas if you’re feeling stuck
Use your resources—Canvas, study apps, and Access EAP—to stay on track

Kirana Colleges is proud to support students with flexible, practical training that fits into real life. With the right tools and support, your online study experience can be just as rewarding (and successful!) as any classroom-based program.

Ready to take control of your learning journey? Check out our Community Services courses, or speak with a Course and Career Advisor today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m a mature-aged student. How can Kirana Colleges support someone like me?

Absolutely! At Kirana Colleges, we understand that returning to study can be a big step, especially when balancing family, work, or other commitments. That’s why our courses are delivered online, giving you the flexibility to study when and where it suits you best. Whether you're most productive in the evenings or early mornings, you can learn at your own pace and in your own time.

Q: Are there any support services to help mature-aged students adjust to studying again?

Yes, we offer a range of support services tailored to your needs. Through our partnership with AccessEAP, you have access to a 24/7 counselling hotline and up to three complimentary counselling sessions (in-person or via Skype).

You’ll also have the support of our dedicated student support team, who are here to help you with course navigation, study advice, and any general enquiries throughout your learning journey.

Q: How many hours should I dedicate to study each week?

If you're studying full-time, we recommend allocating around 15-20 hours per week to coursework and assessments. Setting aside regular time each week will help you stay on track and progress steadily toward your qualification and career goals.

Q: Do I need computer skills to study online?

Yes, you’ll need basic computer skills to get started. This includes being comfortable using email, browsing the internet, and navigating our online learning platform. Don’t worry, our team is here to help if you need support getting set up.

Speak to one of our Course and Career Advisors
if you have any further questions!

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