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For-Profit College Scam

Unlike public universities and private nonprofit colleges, for-profit colleges are owned and operated by private corporations with a goal of making money. These schools often make false promises and provide sub-par educations that fail to prepare students for a career and saddle them with too much debt. Watch out for “shady schools.” Your education is too important to take chances with.

CNN – For-Profit Colleges Explained

For-profit colleges can be deceptive, aggressive and manipulative. Watch to learn more about how some of these "shady schools” operate.

Protect Yourself From For-Profit College Scams

  • Research the institution

    Do your homework. Go online and see what you can find out about the school you’re interested in.

  • Check the school's ranking

    Before you commit to a for-profit school or program, check their rankings so you know what you’re getting into.

  • Be suspicious of job guarantees

    Be suspicious of recruiters who use high-pressure sales tactics, exaggerate potential income, or make job guarantees.

  • Make sure the school is accredited

    Make sure the school is accredited. If it’s not, it may not have your best interests in mind.

Have You Witnessed This Scam?

If you’ve been affected by a for-profit college or university scam and the U.S. Mail® has been used in any way, we want to help. Please report the crime.

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