Overview

This article explains the difference between the current Free ASL 1 Trial Course and the retired Free ASL 1 Course. 

How Do I Sign Up for the Free ASL 1 Trial?

To enroll:

  1. Visit the Free ASL 1 Trial enrollment page. https://www.startasl.com/subscribe 

  2. Follow the enrollment instructions.

  3. Create your account if needed.

  4. Begin learning immediately.



What Does the Free ASL 1 Trial Include?

The Free ASL 1 Trial Course includes:

  • Select lessons from Units 1–3

  • Sample vocabulary instruction

  • Sample activities and quizzes

  • Access to the new learning platform

The remaining units are locked and available through enrollment in a full course.



What's the Difference Between the Trial and the Full Course?

The Free ASL 1 Trial Course is designed to give students a preview of the curriculum and platform.

Full courses include:

  • Complete course content

  • Additional lessons and activities

  • Progress tracking

  • Completion certificates

  • Online Guided options with instructor support



Why Am I No Longer Enrolled in the Free ASL 1 Course?

As of May 1, 2026, Start ASL officially retired the Free ASL 1 Course as part of our transition to a new learning platform.

We shared several email updates before the transition to help prepare students for this change.

What Replaced the Free ASL 1 Course?

We now offer a Free ASL 1 Trial Course on our new learning platform.

The trial course provides a sample of the Start ASL learning experience and allows students to explore the platform before purchasing a full course.

Do You Still Offer Free ASL Resources?

Yes.

In addition to the Free ASL 1 Trial Course, Start ASL offers many free ASL resources on our website, including:

  • Beginner ASL lessons

  • Vocabulary lists

  • Fingerspelling lessons

  • Numbers

  • Common phrases

  • Grammar articles

  • Deaf culture resources

These resources are available to everyone and are a great way to begin learning ASL. https://www.startasl.com/learn-sign-language-asl/

What If I Previously Took the Free ASL 1 Course?

Students who previously used the retired Free ASL 1 Course are encouraged to enroll in the Free ASL 1 Trial Course or one of the current Start ASL learning options. The new platform offers a more modern learning experience with improved features and ongoing enhancements.

Which Option Should I Choose Next?

After completing the trial, many students continue with:

  • Online Self-Study

  • Online Guided

  • Offline Course Downloads


See Choosing the Right Start ASL Option for a comparison of all available learning options.