Do You Need a College Degree to Start a Career in Real Estate?

By Michael ChenLast Updated July 30, 2025

Understanding Educational Requirements for a Real Estate Career

Pursuing a career in real estate can be a rewarding choice for those interested in property, negotiation, and helping clients make life-changing decisions. One of the most common questions for aspiring agents is whether a college degree is necessary to enter the profession. The answer is clear: a four-year college degree is not required to become a licensed real estate agent in most states, including Indiana. Instead, the path to licensure focuses on other educational benchmarks and training designed for the real estate industry. Below, we break down the requirements and steps to help you prepare for a career in real estate, along with practical guidance and alternatives for various backgrounds.

Minimum Educational Background: High School Diploma or GED

The foundation for starting a real estate career is a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED) . This is a universal requirement across most states, serving as the baseline for entering pre-licensing education and eventually applying for your real estate license. No college coursework is mandated as part of the licensing process, meaning individuals can begin their journey immediately after high school or after obtaining a GED [1] [2] [3] .

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Real Estate Agent Without a College Degree

The process to become a licensed real estate agent is structured and accessible to those who meet the age and basic educational criteria. Here are the typical steps:

Meet the Basic Requirements You must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED. This ensures that all candidates have completed a foundational level of education [1] [3] .
Enroll in a State-Approved Pre-Licensing Course You must complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course approved by your state’s real estate commission. These courses are available through both online and in-person programs, providing flexibility for different learning preferences. Topics include real estate law, contracts, property management, negotiation, and ethics [2] [4] .
Pass the Real Estate Licensing Exam After completing your coursework, you must pass a state-administered licensing exam. This test evaluates your understanding of real estate principles and legal requirements. Practice exams and study materials are usually provided by the pre-licensing course provider [3] .
Find a Sponsoring Broker Before you can practice as a real estate agent, you must work with a licensed real estate broker. Research local agencies or brokerages and consider reaching out directly for information on employment opportunities or mentorship programs. Many brokerages are open to new licensees and provide additional training.
Apply for Your License Submit your application through your state’s real estate licensing body. This typically involves providing proof of education, exam results, and broker sponsorship. Instructions and application forms can be obtained from your state’s real estate commission website. If you’re unsure where to start, search for your state’s official real estate commission online.
Complete Post-Licensing and Continuing Education After licensure, states usually require additional post-licensing coursework (e.g., 30 hours within the first two years in Indiana) and ongoing continuing education to maintain your license. These requirements ensure that agents remain current on laws and best practices. For details on your state’s requirements, consult your state real estate commission’s official page or the National Association of Realtors’ education portal [5] .

Alternatives to a College Degree in Real Estate

While a college degree is not a prerequisite, some individuals may choose to pursue higher education in business, finance, or real estate to enhance their skills or advance to higher-level roles, such as becoming a broker or property manager. However, many successful agents enter the field directly after high school and focus on building knowledge through practical experience, industry certifications, and continuing education.

For those interested in specialized real estate careers, such as appraisals or commercial property management, some positions may require additional training or college-level coursework. Always review the requirements for your intended specialization to ensure you meet all criteria.

Real-World Examples: Getting Started Without College

Consider Jane, who graduated from high school and decided to pursue real estate. She enrolled in a state-approved online pre-licensing course, completed the 90 hours of coursework, passed the state exam, and joined a local brokerage. Within her first year, Jane closed several residential transactions and began building her client base, all without a college degree. Alternatively, Mark, a mid-career professional, obtained his GED and leveraged his customer service background to transition into real estate, finding success through networking and ongoing education.

Practical Guidance: How to Access Real Estate Education and Opportunities

If you are ready to start your real estate journey:

Research Approved Pre-Licensing Providers: Search for “state-approved real estate pre-licensing courses” for your state. Ensure the provider is recognized by your state’s real estate commission. Many reputable providers offer both online and in-person formats.
Contact Local Brokerages: Reach out to real estate offices in your area to inquire about sponsorship for new agents and training programs. Most brokerages have designated staff or recruiters who can guide you through the hiring and onboarding process.
Prepare for the Exam: Use study guides and practice tests provided by your course. Consistent study and review are key to passing the licensing exam on the first attempt.
Stay Informed About Continuing Education: Visit your state real estate commission’s website or the National Association of Realtors for updates on continuing education requirements and course offerings [5] .
Explore Industry Associations: Organizations like the National Association of Realtors offer resources, networking, and ongoing education for members. Membership is not mandatory but can provide valuable support and industry insights.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Some prospective agents may lack confidence due to their educational background. However, real estate is an industry where skills, motivation, and ongoing learning are highly valued. If you encounter challenges:

Seek Mentorship: Many brokerages offer mentorship or training programs for new agents. Don’t hesitate to ask about available support.
Leverage Online Learning: Flexible online courses allow you to complete pre-licensing education at your own pace, making it accessible for those balancing work or family commitments.
Focus on Soft Skills: Communication, negotiation, and relationship-building are critical. Develop these skills through workshops, reading, and practical experience.

Key Takeaways

You do not need a college degree to start a career in real estate. The essential requirements are a high school diploma or GED, completion of a state-approved pre-licensing course, and passing the state licensing exam. With dedication and a willingness to learn, you can build a successful career in real estate, regardless of your higher education background. For more details, always consult your state’s official real estate commission website and seek guidance from established industry associations.