In the age of network information, autonomous learning has become an important way of learning. Improving autonomous learning ability will help to cultivate students’ autonomous learning habits, innovation consciousness and practical ability. This paper analyzes the development, characteristic connotation, advantages and current status of autonomous learning and puts forward strategies for cultivating college students’ autonomous learning ability. This paper is of guiding significance for enhancing learners’ awareness of autonomous learning, developing learners’ autonomous learning strategies and methods and improving learners’ autonomous learning ability, and it will lay a foundation for cultivating students’ lifelong learning consciousness.