Real Estate School in the US: What to Know Before You Enroll

Many people think about becoming a real estate agent. It is a career that offers flexibility and the potential to grow. But before anyone can start showing homes or helping clients, there is one step that has to happen first: completing a state-approved pre-licensing education program. This guide explains what real estate school is for, what types of courses are available, what typical requirements look like, how to choose a school, what the licensing process involves, and what happens after getting a license. It also includes a section with frequently asked questions.

Relatedsearches//img.enjoy4fun.com/news_icon/d7bm6icm2jsc72srlmlg.jpg

What Is Real Estate School For?

Real estate school is not optional. Every state requires aspiring agents to complete a certain number of hours of formal education before they can take the licensing exam. This education covers the fundamentals: property ownership, contracts, finance, agency relationships, fair housing laws, and ethics.

The goal is to prepare students for the state exam and provide the basic knowledge needed to practice real estate. Completing the coursework does not guarantee a passing score on the exam, but it is a necessary step toward becoming licensed.

Why Consider a Career in Real Estate?

The real estate industry is large. Nationwide, there are about 2 million real estate agents. The National Association of Realtors reports that about 90 percent of homebuyers and sellers use a real estate agent in their transactions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 46,300 openings for real estate brokers and sales agents are projected each year, on average, over the decade, primarily due to the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force.

The median age of Realtors is 55 years old, and the industry continues to see new entrants from diverse backgrounds. A 2026 survey found that about 65 percent of agents report a positive outlook for their real estate career, and more than 86 percent expect to still be in business next year.

Relatedsearches

Types of Real Estate Schools and Course Formats

Real estate education comes in different formats. The right choice depends on a person’s schedule, budget, and learning style. Both online and in-person formats can be fully approved by state licensing boards, as long as the school has state approval.

In-person classes: These take place in a physical classroom with a set schedule. Students can ask questions in real time and interact directly with instructors and peers. This format works well for people who benefit from structure and face-to-face guidance. In-person options are almost always more expensive than online equivalents because instructors need to be paid for each session.

Livestream online classes: These are scheduled online classes that happen in real time. Students join from home but still have live interaction with instructors and classmates. This format combines structure with convenience.

Self-paced online courses: These offer the most flexibility. Students can study anytime, anywhere, using pre-recorded lectures and digital materials. This format is often more affordable. According to research, self-paced online learners can complete material 40 to 60 percent faster than traditional classroom learners because they control their own pace.

Both online and in-person courses are accepted for state licensing requirements. The choice should be based on what works best for the individual, not on concerns about meeting state rules.

Typical Pre-Licensing Requirements

Each state sets its own rules for real estate licensing. The number of required pre-licensing hours varies from about 40 hours to over 150 hours, depending on the state. On average, most states require 60 to 90 hours of coursework.

For example:

  • Michigan requires 40 hours of approved pre-licensing education
  • Florida requires 63 hours of pre-licensing coursework
  • Rhode Island requires 45 hours
  • New Jersey requires 75 hours

In addition to education, applicants must meet basic eligibility requirements. These typically include being at least 18 years old and having a high school diploma or GED. Most states also require a background check and fingerprinting.

How Much Does Real Estate School Cost?

The cost of getting a real estate license varies by state and by school. The largest expense is usually the pre-licensing course itself.

Pre-licensing education: Costs typically range from $300 to $600 across the country. However, some schools offer courses for less. For example, one Michigan online course is priced at $135, while in-person options cost around $305. In Florida, course costs can range from $100 to $500.

Additional costs:

  • State license application fee: typically $35 to $90
  • Exam fee: usually $40 to $100 per attempt
  • Fingerprinting and background check: around $40 to $100
  • Optional study materials or practice exams: $30 to $100

The total cost for the entire licensing process generally falls between $550 and $800 in most states.

What to Look for in a Real Estate School

Choosing the right school matters. Here are factors to consider before enrolling.

State approval: This is the most important factor. A school must be approved by the state’s real estate commission. If it is not, the coursework will not count toward licensing requirements. State approval should be verified before enrollment.

Course format: Different schools offer different formats. Some specialize in self-paced online learning. Others offer live virtual classes or in-person instruction. A person should choose a format that fits their schedule and how they learn best.

Instructor experience: Look for instructors who actively practice real estate or have significant industry experience. They can provide practical insights that go beyond textbook material.

Exam preparation resources: Passing the licensing exam is the goal. Good schools provide practice exams, study guides, flashcards, and simulated tests. Some offer exam prep materials included in the course price.

Student reviews: Reading reviews from past students can help identify schools with strong instruction, good support services, and positive learning experiences. Reviews can also reveal potential red flags.

Career resources: Some schools offer career coaching, job placement assistance, or discounts on post-licensing and continuing education courses. These extras can add value.

How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent

The path to becoming a licensed agent follows several clear steps.

Step 1: Complete pre-licensing education. Enroll in a state-approved school and finish the required number of hours. The course must be completed before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Pass the state licensing exam. After completing the coursework, schedule the exam through the state’s testing provider, such as PSI or Pearson VUE. The exam typically covers both national real estate principles and state-specific laws. In Florida, the sales associate exam pass rate for first-time test takers is generally around 50 to 56 percent.

Step 3: Submit an application and pass a background check. Most states require fingerprinting and a criminal background check before issuing a license.

Step 4: Find a sponsoring broker. A newly licensed agent cannot work independently. They must affiliate with a licensed real estate broker who will supervise their work.

Step 5: Activate the license. Once the broker sponsorship is in place, the license becomes active, and the agent can start helping clients.

What Happens After Getting a License?

Getting a license is not the end of education. It is the beginning of ongoing learning.

Post-licensing education: Some states require new agents to complete additional coursework within their first renewal period. For example, Florida requires a 45-hour post-licensing course during the first renewal cycle.

Continuing education (CE): After the initial period, agents must complete continuing education to keep their license active. CE requirements vary by state. In Florida, agents need 14 hours of CE every renewal cycle, including core law and ethics.

Specialization and certifications: Many agents pursue additional certifications to stand out. The National Association of Realtors offers various designations in areas like residential, commercial, property management, and more.

Career growth: With experience, agents can advance to become brokers, open their own firms, or move into commercial real estate or property management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can anyone enroll in real estate school?
A: Most states require students to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Background check requirements vary by state.

Q: How long does it take to complete real estate school?
A: It depends on the format. Self-paced online courses can be completed in a few weeks if a person studies full-time. Classroom courses typically follow a set schedule over several weeks or months.

Q: Is online real estate school accepted for licensing?
A: Yes. As long as the school is approved by the state real estate commission, online courses are accepted just like in-person courses.

Q: What happens if a person fails the licensing exam?
A: Most states allow retakes. There is usually a fee for each attempt, and some states limit the number of attempts within a certain time frame. In Florida, retakes are allowed and can be scheduled as soon as 24 hours after receiving the score.

Q: Does completing real estate school guarantee passing the exam?
A: No. The school provides the education, but passing the exam depends on how well a person studies and prepares. Many schools offer exam prep resources to help improve the chances of passing.

Q: Is real estate school expensive?
A: Costs vary by state and school, but pre-licensing courses typically range from $300 to $600. The total licensing process generally costs $550 to $800, including exam fees and application costs.

This material is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Real estate licensing requirements vary by state and change over time. Individuals should verify current requirements with their state’s real estate commission before enrolling in any program.

Data Sources

author avatorBy Chloe Davis

Contemporary dance choreographer and instructor exploring movement as a form of emotional expression.