A correspondence course is a class that is carried out through distance learning, whether that is online or with print materials that are mailed or faxed. Correspondence courses are self-paced, and students receive the materials needed for the course and complete assignments on their own time. Generally, correspondence courses involve less teacher-student interaction than other distance education formats, such as online courses. Instructor communication, pacing, and financial aid availability often differ between the two formats. Correspondence courses offer significant pacing flexibility, and enrollees typically set their own pace, completing coursework with limited instructor intervention. In correspondence courses, students may often register at any time, regardless of semester timelines, provided they complete course requirements within a specified timeframe.