10 Best Open-Source Learning Management Systems in 2025

Looking for the best open-source Learning Management Systems in 2024? Explore top LMS options that offer flexibility, scalability, and cost-effective e-learning solutions.

The e-learning industry is experiencing significant growth, with the global market projected to reach $490.20 billion by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.88% from 2023.

Learning Management Systems (LMS) are integral to this expansion, providing platforms that facilitate online education. Notably, the LMS market alone is valued at approximately $20 billion.

For those seeking cost-effective solutions, open-source LMS platforms offer flexibility and scalability without the associated licensing fees. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best open-source LMS platforms in 2025 to help you find the right fit for your needs.

What Is an Open-Source Learning Management System?

An open-source Learning Management System (LMS) is a free online learning platform that anyone can use and change. The code is open, so schools, businesses, and other groups can adjust it to fit their needs. 

Unlike paid LMS platforms, which have limits on what you can do, open-source LMS gives you more control.

Many schools use it for online classes, businesses use it for employee training, and non-profits use it to teach people new skills. Since it's free to download, it's a budget-friendly way to set up an online learning system. 

Plus, because so many people work on improving these platforms, they keep getting better with new updates and features.

What are the Best Open-Source Learning Management Systems?

1. Moodle

What is Moodle?

Moodle is a free, open-source Learning Management System (LMS) that helps schools, businesses, and organizations create and manage online courses. It’s designed to be flexible, secure, and customizable, so users can build a learning platform that fits their needs.

Many universities, companies, and non-profits use Moodle for online training, employee development, and educational programs. Since it’s open-source, developers can modify it, add features, and integrate it with other tools. 

Moodle is also scalable, meaning it works for small classes as well as large organizations with thousands of learners. With strong security, mobile-friendly design, and a global community supporting it, Moodle is one of the most widely used eLearning platforms today.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No license fees, and anyone can modify it.
• Customizable – Change the design, features, and functionality to fit your needs.
• Scalable – Works for small classes, universities, and large organizations.
• Plugin Support – Add extra features with thousands of free and paid plugins.
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on phones, tablets, and computers.
• Self-Hosted or Cloud-Based – Install on your own server or use MoodleCloud.
• Secure & Private – Strong security features to protect user data.
• Multilingual Support – Available in over 40 languages.
• Integration Ready – Connect with third-party apps like Zoom, Google Drive, and Microsoft 365.
• Community-Driven – Supported by a global network of developers and educators.

Pricing

Moodle is a free, open-source Learning Management System (LMS) that anyone can download and use without licensing fees. However, setting up and maintaining Moodle requires technical expertise and resources. For those seeking a hassle-free experience, Moodle offers MoodleCloud, a hosted service with various pricing plans:

• Starter Plan: $200 AUD per year for up to 50 users.
• Mini Plan: $340 AUD per year for up to 100 users.
• Small Plan: $630 AUD per year for up to 200 users.
• Medium Plan: $1,450 AUD per year for up to 500 users; custom domain available as an add-on.
• Standard Plan: $2,750 AUD per year for up to 750 users; custom domain included.

More to read: Best Moodle Alternatives for LMS on a Budget

2. Open LMS 

What is Open LMS?

Open LMS is an open-source learning platform designed to help businesses and schools manage online training and education. 

It’s built on Moodle™ and offers a flexible, customizable system that fits different learning needs. 

With strong security, 24/7 support, and easy integration with other tools, Open LMS makes it simple to create, deliver, and track courses. 

It’s used by companies, universities, and organizations worldwide to provide a reliable and scalable learning experience.

Key Features

• Built on Moodle™ – Uses a trusted open-source LMS framework
• Fully Customizable – Adapt the platform to fit your needs
• Scalable – Grows with your business or institution
• 24/7 Support – Get help anytime from experts
• Strong Security – Protects data with top security measures
• Easy Integrations – Works with many tools and plugins
• Advanced Analytics – Tracks learner progress and course performance
• E-commerce Support – Sell courses and manage payments
• Mobile-Friendly – Access learning on any device
• Compliance & Reporting – Helps meet industry and training standards

Pricing

• Corporate Plan – Pay per active user, custom branding, integrations, mobile app, reporting, security, and support
• Higher Education Plan – Pay per active user, custom branding, integrations, mobile app, reporting, security, and support
• Premium Add-Ons – Optional features like seat-based pricing, eCommerce, advanced integrations, and custom training
• Custom Pricing – Get a quote based on your organization’s specific needs

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3. Open edX

What is Open edX?

Open edX is a free, open-source learning platform used by universities, businesses, and governments to run online courses. 

It supports self-paced and instructor-led learning, with features like discussion forums, live video, and interactive content. 

It works on any device, integrates with other tools, and offers real-time analytics to track progress. Built by Harvard and MIT, Open edX is designed to handle everything from small classes to millions of learners worldwide.

Key Features

• Open-source – Free to use and customize
• Scalable – Supports small courses to millions of learners
• Multi-device support – Works on any phone, tablet, or computer
• Interactive content – Includes videos, quizzes, and simulations
• Live discussions – Built-in forums and video conferencing
• Customizable – Modify features to fit your needs
• Analytics & reporting – Track learner progress in real-time
• Third-party integrations – Connects with tools like Salesforce
• Multi-language support – Available in 50+ languages
• Cloud or on-premise hosting – Flexible deployment options

Pricing

Open edX is a free, open-source platform for online learning.

4. Canvas LMS

What is Canvas LMS?

Canvas LMS is an open, easy-to-use learning platform designed for schools, colleges, and businesses. 

It helps teachers create, manage, and deliver courses online while giving students a simple way to access lessons, assignments, and discussions. 

Canvas works on any device, supports live video, and integrates with tools like Google and Microsoft. Schools can customize it to fit their needs, and there’s even a free version for teachers to try.

Key Features

• Open and flexible – Customizable to fit different learning needs
• Easy to use – Simple interface for teachers and students
• Mobile-friendly – Works on any device
• Integrations – Connects with Google, Microsoft, and other tools
• Live learning – Supports video conferencing and discussions
• Assignments & quizzes – Create and grade work easily
• Analytics & tracking – Monitor student progress in real-time
• Cloud-based – No need for extra software or setup
• Collaboration tools – Discussion boards and group projects
• Free version – Basic features available at no cost

Pricing

• Free-for-Teacher – $0, basic features for individual teachers
• Institution Pricing – Custom pricing based on users and features
• Example Cost – Around $5 per student per year (varies)
• Get a Quote – Contact Canvas LMS for exact pricing

5. Chamilo

What is Chamilo?

Chamilo is a free, open-source learning platform that helps schools and businesses manage online training. It makes it easy to create courses, track progress, and engage learners with quizzes and interactive content. 

Chamilo is simple to use, works on any device, and supports multiple languages. Organizations can customize it to fit their needs and even get certified as Chamilo experts.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Easy Course Creation – Build and manage courses quickly
• User-Friendly – Simple interface for teachers and students
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
• Quizzes & Assessments – Create and grade tests easily
• Tracking & Reports – Monitor student progress
• Multi-Language Support – Available in different languages
• Collaboration Tools – Includes chat, forums, and video calls
• SCORM Compatible – Supports standard e-learning formats
• Certification & Badges – Issue certificates for course completion

Pricing

Chamilo LMS is free to download and use. For organizations needing additional services, official providers offer various plans:

• Chamilo Light – Contact provider for pricing; suitable for up to 300 users.
• Chamilo Pro – Contact provider for pricing; supports up to 1,000 users.
• Chamilo HR – Contact provider for pricing; designed for human resources, supports up to 1,000 users.

6. Sakai

What is Sakai?

Sakai is a free, open-source learning platform designed by educators for educators. Schools and universities use it to create online courses, share materials, and track student progress. 

It offers tools for quizzes, assignments, discussions, and collaboration. Sakai is flexible, secure, and integrates with other apps. 

Because it's open-source, institutions can customize it to fit their needs while keeping full control of their data.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Course Management – Create and organize lessons, quizzes, and assignments
• Collaboration Tools – Supports group work, discussions, and messaging
• Integrations – Connects with third-party apps easily
• Data Privacy – Schools keep full control of their student data
• Customizable – Modify features to fit your institution’s needs
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
• Strong Community Support – Developed and improved by educators
• Flexible Hosting – Use on-premise or with a service provider
• Robust Analytics – Track student performance and engagement

Pricing

Sakai is a free, open-source learning management system (LMS) designed for educators and students.

7. ILIAS

What is ILIAS?

ILIAS is a free, open-source learning platform for schools, businesses, and government groups. It lets you create courses, add quizzes and assignments, and track student progress. 

You can also use chat, forums, and group tools for teamwork. It’s secure, works on any device, and can be customized to fit your needs. There are no license fees, and a community helps keep it updated.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Course Management – Create and organize lessons, quizzes, and assignments
• Collaboration Tools – Chat, forums, and group workspaces
• Tracking & Reporting – Monitor learner progress and performance
• Secure & Private – Keeps data safe with strong security
• Works on Any Device – Accessible on computers, tablets, and phones
• Multi-Language Support – Available in different languages
• Flexible Hosting – Use on your own server or with a provider
• SCORM & xAPI Support – Works with standard e-learning formats
• Community-Driven – Improved and updated by a global user base

Pricing

ILIAS is a free, open-source Learning Management System (LMS) that doesn't require any licensing fees. You can download and use it at no cost. 

8. Forma LMS

What is Forma LMS?

Forma LMS is a free, open-source learning platform designed for businesses. It helps companies train employees, partners, and customers with online courses. 

You can create lessons, track progress, and customize the system to fit your needs. Forma LMS supports multiple brands, offers reporting tools, and integrates with other software. 

It’s flexible, secure, and built to make corporate training easier.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Built for Businesses – Designed for corporate training needs
• Multi-Client Support – Manage different brands on one platform
• Course Management – Create, assign, and track online training
• Custom Reports – Generate detailed training reports
• Integrations – Connect with other software using APIs and plugins
• Flexible & Scalable – Adjust features to fit your company’s needs
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
• Secure & Private – Keeps company data safe
• Community-Driven – Supported and improved by users worldwide

Pricing

• Free Version – $0, self-hosted with full features
• Hosted Plan – Starts at €87/month, includes cloud hosting
• Custom Solutions – Pricing varies based on needs and extra services
• Get a Quote – Contact Forma LMS for exact pricing

9. OpenOLAT

What is OpenOLAT?

OpenOlat is a free, open-source learning platform for schools, businesses, and organizations. It helps create courses, manage training, and track progress. 

OpenOlat includes tools for quizzes, video lessons, discussions, and collaboration. It’s secure, works on any device, and can be customized to fit different needs. Organizations can host it themselves or use a hosting provider.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Course Management – Create and organize online courses easily
• Testing & Exams – Built-in tools for quizzes, self-tests, and exams
• Collaboration Tools – Forums, chats, and group workspaces
• Video Integration – Add and manage video lessons
• Secure & Private – Strong data protection and hosting options
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
• User Management – Supports different roles and permissions
• Customizable & Scalable – Adapt to any organization’s needs
• Integration Ready – Connect with third-party apps and IT systems

Pricing

OpenOlat is a free, open-source learning management system (LMS). If you choose to host it yourself, there are no licensing fees. For those preferring a hosted solution, services start at approximately CHF 250 per month for up to 250 users. 

10. Dokeos

What is Dokeos?

Dokeos is an open-source learning platform designed for businesses in regulated industries like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. It helps companies train employees, track progress, and ensure compliance with industry standards. 

Dokeos includes tools for course creation, video training, assessments, and certifications. It’s secure, customizable, and supports audits to meet strict regulations.

Key Features

• Free & Open-Source – No cost, fully customizable
• Compliance Training – Designed for regulated industries like healthcare and pharma
• Course Management – Create, manage, and track training easily
• Certifications & Audits – Ensure compliance with industry regulations
• Video Training – Supports live and recorded learning sessions
• Assessments & Quizzes – Test learners and track their progress
• Secure & Private – Strong data protection and validation features
• Customizable – Adapt the platform to fit company needs
• Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
• Integration Ready – Connect with other business and HR tools

Dokeos offers a pricing plan starting at $200 per month, with the cost increasing based on the number of users. 

How to Choose the Right Open-Source LMS for Your Needs

Know Your Goals

Are you using the LMS for a school, business, or training program? Some platforms work better for education, while others are built for corporate learning. Pick one that matches your needs.

Check Your Technical Skills

Some LMS platforms need coding and server setup, while others are easier to use. If you’re not tech-savvy, look for a user-friendly option or choose a provider that offers setup and support.

Decide on Hosting

Do you want to host the LMS yourself or use a cloud-based version? Self-hosting gives you control but requires maintenance. Cloud-based options are easier to manage but may have limits.

Consider the Costs

Open-source LMS platforms are free to download, but you may need to pay for hosting, plugins, and support. Make sure to budget for any extra costs.

Final Thoughts 

We’ve looked at the 10 best open-source Learning Management Systems (LMS) for 2025 and how they can help with online learning and training. Each one has its own strengths, whether for schools, businesses, or personal learning.

Open-source LMS platforms give you control and flexibility, but they can take time to set up and manage. If you want something easier, Coursebox.ai is a great option. It uses AI to help create courses faster and support learners in real time.

Try one today and see which LMS works best for you!