Trade school applicant
Is trade school worth it for you?
See the actual math: program cost, projected debt, publicly available federal labor statistics earnings, and whether an employer-sponsored program might cover the cost entirely.
Tools that apply to trade school decisions
Specialized trade school tools are coming
We are building tools designed specifically for trade school decisions: a Trade Worth-It Score that uses occupational earnings as the outcome benchmark, an employer-sponsored program directory, and a state-by-state directory of trade programs by occupation.
In the meantime, the tools above cover the financing math that still applies. Tell us what you need most so we build the right thing next.
Why trade school math is different
Trade programs typically cost $5,000 to $30,000 total and run 6 to 24 months. Most undergraduate degrees cost 5 to 30 times more and take 4 years. The shorter time horizon and lower total cost change the affordability math substantially.
Occupational earnings data from publicly available federal labor statistics gives clearer outcome projections than for many college majors. Electricians, welders, HVAC techs, and CDL drivers all have well-documented median earnings ranges. Six-figure earnings are realistic in skilled trades with the right specialty and experience.
Employer-sponsored programs can eliminate tuition entirely. Ford ASSET, Toyota T-TEN, IBEW apprenticeships, UA apprenticeships, and military transition programs all pay students to train. Trade-offs include service obligations, but for many applicants the math is favorable.
How we personalize your experience
When you sign up, we ask a few quick questions about state, military or veteran status, and decision stage so your dashboard surfaces the tools, scholarships, and content that fit your situation.