How to choose a trade school: a 10-point checklist

Use this checklist with the earnings, debt and completion data on each school page.

1. Start from the job, not the school. Look up the role in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook and check whether your state requires a license.
2. Check accreditation. Confirm the school's accreditor in the Department of Education's database (DAPIP). For health programs, also check programmatic accreditation required by the credential exam.
3. Match the program to your state board. Cosmetology, massage, nursing, dental and electrical roles are state-regulated. Ask for written confirmation that the program meets your board's requirements.
4. Compare total cost, not tuition. Add tools, uniforms, books, exam fees and lost wages. Use the school's net price calculator linked on each school page.
5. Look at outcomes. Compare 1-year earnings, debt and completion rates here, and ask for graduate counts behind any placement claim.
6. Visit and watch a class. Look at the equipment and ask how many students share each station.
7. Ask about employer ties. Which local employers hire graduates, and who arranges externships?
8. Understand financing. Federal aid, employer sponsorship and apprenticeship pay are often cheaper than private loans. Get the loan terms in writing.
9. Never pay to “guarantee” a job. Be careful with schools that promise placement or pressure you to enroll the same day.
10. Compare at least three schools. Use the state and city pages to shortlist.

Related: red flags and how to read the data.