edX courses are either self-paced or instructor-paced. Pacing refers to how course teams run the course, and whether you need to complete course materials on a set schedule.

How do I know whether my course is self-paced or instructor-paced?

Many edX courses are instructor-paced. These courses set a fixed schedule. The course team sets specific due dates for assignments and exams, and you complete the course within a defined time period, such as 8 to 12 weeks. In instructor-paced courses, course materials become available at specific times as the course progresses. In most instructor-paced courses, certificates are generated for learners who have passed the course shortly after the end of the course.

In contrast, self-paced courses do not set a fixed schedule for assignments. All of the course materials are available as soon as the course starts. You can read more about self-paced courses here: How do self-paced courses work? 

How can I tell what kind of course this is? #

Check the course introduction page details just below the course’s title. It will read Self paced (Progress at your own speed) for self paced courses or Instructor-paced (Instructor-led on a course schedule) for instructor-paced courses.