Questions to Ask Schools

Ask these questions to get the rest of the information you need to make a good decision about school.

• Does the class or program you’re interested in offer credit toward a degree or certificate?
• Do the instructors have recent experience in your field?
• Do the classes allow students to apply what they’ve learned, including work experiences and internships?
•  Does the school provide credit for what you’ve learned on a job or at other schools?

• What are the job placement rates for recent graduates in your field?
• What types of positions do graduates get?
• How many students go on to graduate school? What kinds of schools do they go to?
• How do current and former students rate the program or course?

• What is the total cost of the program or course, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies?
• How does the cost of this program compare with costs at other schools with similar programs?
• If you’re choosing a community or state college, do you get reduced tuition if you live in the school district?
• Does the school help you apply for financial aid, including grants, tuition waivers, and work-study jobs?

• Does the program you’re interested in have classes at times that are convenient for you?
• How often are classes offered at times that are convenient for you?

• Are counseling or advising services available to help you choose the right classes and develop a learning/career plan?
• Is child care available?
• Are job placement services available?
• Are office hours or study groups available at convenient times?
• Does the school help students who need to improve basic skills like math, reading, and writing?
• Can the school or program help you if you have problems attending class or meeting class requirements?
• Can you get help finding affordable housing?