.org vs .edu
Which domain extension should you choose? Here's how the two compare — and when each one is the better pick.
Side by side
| .org | .edu | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Legacy generic TLD, since 1985 | Generic TLD |
| Runs the registry | Public Interest Registry | EDUCAUSE |
| In the root zone since | January 1, 1985 | — |
| Popular meaning | — | — |
| Search geotargeting | Generic — not tied to a country | Generic — not tied to a country |
| DNSSEC-signed | Yes | Yes |
| Name servers (IPv6) | 6 (6) | 13 (13) |
Choose .org if…
- Nonprofits, charities and foundations
- Open-source projects and standards bodies
- Communities, clubs and civic groups
Watch out for
- Anyone can register one — .org alone doesn't prove nonprofit status
- Good short names are as scarce as on .com
The right default for nonprofits, open-source projects and communities. It carries trust that most new endings can't buy.
Choose .edu if…
- Accredited U.S. postsecondary institutions
Watch out for
- K-12 schools and non-U.S. universities generally don't qualify
Not something you can just buy — it's for accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Everyone else, look at .academy, .school or your country's academic space.
.org vs .edu FAQ
Is .org better than .edu?
Neither is better across the board. The right default for nonprofits, open-source projects and communities. It carries trust that most new endings can't buy. Not something you can just buy — it's for accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Everyone else, look at .academy, .school or your country's academic space.
Does .org or .edu rank better on Google?
Google doesn't give either ending a ranking bonus. What differs is geotargeting: .org is generic — not tied to a country, and .edu is generic — not tied to a country. Content and links matter far more than the TLD.
Can I use both .org and .edu?
Yes, and many brands do: register both, pick one as the main site, and redirect the other to it so links and email never go astray.