Free · 10 questions

Should I Go to College or Trade School? (Quiz)

Answer 10 questions about how you learn, your goals and your budget to see whether a four-year college, community college, trade school, apprenticeship or short certificate fits you best.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
How it works

Pick the answer that sounds most like you. There are no wrong answers: the quiz weighs learning style, cost, timing and goals to suggest an education path.

Question 1 of 10How do you learn best?
Question 2 of 10Which career idea excites you most right now?
Question 3 of 10How important is starting to earn money soon?
Question 4 of 10How do you feel about student loans?
Question 5 of 10Which work environment sounds best?
Question 6 of 10How did you feel about high school academics?
Question 7 of 10Would you like to get paid while you train?
Question 8 of 10How sure are you about your career direction?
Question 9 of 10What about the “college experience”: campus life, clubs, dorms?
Question 10 of 10Long term, what matters most?

Frequently asked questions

Is trade school better than college?

Neither is better for everyone. Trade school is often faster and cheaper and leads directly to skilled jobs; college is required for many professions and can open management and specialized paths. The right choice depends on the career you want.

Can I do both?

Yes. Many people earn a trade credential first and add a degree later, or use community college to combine technical certificates with transferable credits.