College vs Trade Schools
About You
Your Interests & Strengths
Your Financial Picture
Lifestyle & Values
Your Recommended Path
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Avg. Trade School Cost
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total program cost
Avg. College Cost (4-yr)
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total program cost
Trade: Time to Earn
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months to first paycheck
College: Time to Earn
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months to first paycheck
Side-by-Side Financial Comparison
| Factor | College | Trade School |
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Lifetime Earnings Comparison
Estimated gross earnings over a 40-year career — before taxes, based on national median wages.
Your Fit Scorecard
Based on your answers — which path fits your personality, goals, and values better.
| Factor | College | Trade School | Notes |
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What This Means for You
This calculator provides a general framework to help guide this decision — it is not a substitute for individual career counseling or research. Salary figures are based on U.S. national medians and will vary by field, location, and individual performance. Both paths can lead to deeply fulfilling and financially successful careers.
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