LearnDash is a widely used WordPress LMS (learning management system) plugin that allows educators and entrepreneurs to create and sell online courses directly from their own websites. But how does its affiliate program stack up in 2025?
In this review, we’ll cover everything you need to know, how the LearnDash affiliate program works, what commissions you can expect, its pros and cons, how it compares to competitors, and ultimately whether it’s worth promoting in 2025.
LearnDash Affiliate Program Overview
The LearnDash Affiliate Program rewards affiliates for referring new paying customers to LearnDash’s WordPress LMS plugin.
Here are the key details as of 2025:
- Commission Rate: 25% per sale (one-time, not recurring)
- Cookie Duration: 60 days
- Payout Threshold: $50
- Payment Method: Monthly via Impact (their affiliate management platform)
- Affiliate Tools Provided: Tracking dashboard, custom links, banners, email templates, and swipe files
That means when someone clicks your unique affiliate link and purchases a LearnDash license, you earn 25% of the sale price. Since LearnDash’s plans range from around $199/year up to $799/year, your commissions can be substantial depending on which plan is purchased.
What Makes the LearnDash Affiliate Program Stand Out?
While plenty of affiliate programs exist in the online learning space, LearnDash has some features that make its affiliate program stand out.
1. High-Ticket Product = Bigger Commissions
Because LearnDash sells annual licenses with price tags starting at $199, even a single sale can earn you $50 or more. Higher-tier plans ($399 and $799) mean your potential earnings per referral can reach $200 in a single transaction.
2. Established Brand in the LMS Space
LearnDash is one of the most recognized WordPress LMS plugins, trusted by universities, companies, and thousands of independent creators. That brand credibility makes it easier to promote because potential buyers are less skeptical.
3. Long Cookie Duration (60 Days)
With a 60-day cookie window, you have two full months to earn commissions after someone clicks your link. This is generous compared to some affiliate programs that only offer 30 days.
4. Reliable Management Through Impact
Like many SaaS and software companies, LearnDash runs its affiliate program through Impact, a well-established affiliate network. You can count on accurate tracking, detailed analytics, and reliable monthly payouts.
Who Should Promote LearnDash?
LearnDash isn’t the right fit for every affiliate marketer, but if your content overlaps with online education or WordPress tools, it’s a natural fit. The program works best for:
- Bloggers writing about WordPress, e-learning, or online business
- YouTubers reviewing LMS platforms or showing tutorials on course creation
- Digital marketing agencies that recommend software to clients
- Coaches and consultants who help educators set up online schools
- Affiliate marketers running resource sites about online education tools
If your audience consists of teachers, coaches, trainers, or entrepreneurs who want to sell courses online, LearnDash is a program you should consider.
LearnDash vs Other Affiliate Programs
How does LearnDash compare with other popular e-learning and LMS affiliate programs in 2025?
From the table, LearnDash has some strengths, particularly its high upfront commissions and long cookie duration. However, it lacks recurring revenue, which competitors like SchoolMaker provide.
Pros and Cons of the LearnDash Affiliate Program
Let’s break down the main advantages and disadvantages of the LearnDash affiliate program.
Pros
- High commissions per sale (up to $200) thanks to expensive product pricing
- Trusted brand in the LMS and e-learning space with strong social proof
- Generous 60-day cookie window gives affiliates more chances to earn
- Professional affiliate resources (banners, swipe files, emails) provided
- Reliable payments and tracking via Impact
Cons
- No recurring commissions, earnings are one-time only, not ongoing
- Competitive niche
- High upfront cost for customers can sometimes make conversions slower
- Revenue potential depends on fewer but higher-ticket sales compared to subscription-based programs
How Much Can You Really Make?
Earnings depend on how many referrals you generate and which plan your referrals purchase. Let’s run a few scenarios:
- One Standard Plan Sale ($199): $49.75 commission
- One Plus Package Sale ($399): $99.75 commission
- One Pro Package Sale ($799): $199.75 commission
Now imagine referring 10 Pro Package buyers in a year. That’s nearly $2,000 in affiliate income from just 10 referrals.
The downside is that your earnings aren’t recurring, once the commission is paid, you don’t earn again the following year, even if that customer renews their LearnDash subscription.
How to Join the LearnDash Affiliate Program
Joining is simple:
- Head to learndash.com/affiliates
- Submit your application with details about your audience and promotional strategy.
- Wait for approval (typically a few days).
- Once approved, log into your Impact dashboard to access tracking links and assets.
- Start promoting LearnDash through your blog, YouTube channel, email list, or social media.
Final Verdict: Is the LearnDash Affiliate Program Worth It in 2025?
The LearnDash Affiliate Program can definitely be worth promoting, but it depends on your strategy and audience.
If you focus on high-ticket, one-time commissions and your audience overlaps with educators, coaches, or online entrepreneurs using WordPress, then LearnDash is a strong program to include in your portfolio. Its 25% commission rate, high-priced plans, and long cookie duration make it attractive.
However, if your goal is long-term recurring passive income, then you may want to prioritize programs like SchoolMaker, which offer recurring commissions.
FAQs
1. Do I need to use LearnDash to join the affiliate program?
No, you don’t need to be a LearnDash customer, but familiarity with the product will help you create more convincing content.
2. How often are payouts made?
Payments are made monthly via Impact once you hit the $50 threshold.
3. Can I promote LearnDash alongside other LMS programs?
Yes, you can and this is the best way to do affiliate marketing
4. Is there a cost to join the affiliate program?
No, it’s completely free to join the LearnDash Affiliate Program.
5. What’s the best way to promote LearnDash?
Product reviews, tutorials on course creation, and WordPress plugin roundups tend to perform best. Case studies showing how real creators use LearnDash are also very effective.
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