How To Get Student Loans for Auto Body Repair School in 2025

Auto body repair school costs can add up quickly, with most programs costing at least several thousand dollars. But with top auto body technicians earning an average of $87,040 per year, it can be a worthwhile investment.

This guide explores your student loan options for auto body repair school, as well as tips to help you save on training costs.

Current private student loan rates

Can you get student loans for auto body repair school?

You may be able to take out federal student loans if you're enrolled in an accredited community college or technical school that participates in the federal Title IV aid program. Most programs must be at least 10 weeks long to qualify.

To check if your school is eligible, use the Department of Education's accreditation search tool or contact the school's financial aid office directly.

Some private lenders, like Sallie Mae and Ascent, also offer student loans for trade school programs, including auto body repair. However, not all schools are eligible, so make sure your program is on the lender's approved list before applying.

Federal student aid for collision repair school

If your auto body repair school qualifies for federal aid, start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form determines your eligibility for federal loans, grants, and other financial aid.

Here are the main types of federal aid you might qualify for:

• Direct Subsidized Loans: Subsidized loans are available to undergraduate students with financial need. The government covers the interest while you're in school and during a 6-month grace period after you leave.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Unsubsidized loans are available to most students regardless of financial need. Interest starts accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed.
• Direct PLUS Loans: PLUS loans are available to parents of dependent students and to graduate or professional students. These loans can cover up to the full cost of attendance.
• Pell Grants: Pell Grants are offered to students with exceptional financial need. Unlike loans, Pell Grants don't need to be repaid. The maximum award is $7,395 for the 2025-26 school year.
• Work-study: The federal work-study program provides part-time jobs for eligible students with financial need, allowing you to earn money to help cover education expenses while enrolled in school.

Private student loans for auto body repair school

Some private lenders, including College Ave, Sallie Mae, and Ascent, offer student loans for community college and trade school programs. However, not every school is eligible, so make sure your program is on the lender's approved list before applying.

To qualify for a private student loan, you'll typically need a minimum FICO credit score of 670 and a steady income. If you don't meet those requirements on your own, consider applying with a cosigner to help you get approved or qualify for a better interest rate.

When comparing private student loans, look at interest rates, repayment options, and any borrower protections. You can prequalify with multiple lenders at once on a platform like Credible to view your estimated rates without affecting your credit score.

More financial aid for auto body repair students

Student loans aren't your only option for paying for school, and limiting how much you borrow can make it easier to manage your finances after graduation.

Here are a few other financial aid options to help cover the cost of collision repair school:

• Grants: Some state workforce agencies offer grants for career and technical education through programs like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Contact your state labor office to learn more.
• Scholarships: You may find scholarships through your school or national trade organizations. Two places to start are the Mike Rowe Works Foundation and the Collision Repair Education Foundation.
• Apprenticeships or employer sponsorships: Some employers may offer tuition assistance in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.
• GI Bill: Eligible veterans might be able to use their GI benefits to cover education costs.
• School-based installment plans: Some trade schools offer monthly installment plans with little or no interest, which can help spread out your costs over time.

Cost of collision repair school

The cost of auto body repair school can vary widely depending on the program. Most students can expect to pay at least $4,000 in tuition, but costs may be higher if you attend an out-of-state school, live in a high-cost area, or enroll in a longer program.

You may also need to budget for tools, safety gear, textbooks, and certification exam fees.

Salary for auto body technicians

As of May 2024, the median salary for auto body and collision repair technicians was $51,680, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the top 10% earned more than $87,040.

Technicians with specialized certifications, especially those working for dealerships or specialty repair shops, often earn more than generalists. Over time, gaining experience and certifications could help boost your earning potential.

Smart tips on paying for trade school

Before committing to a trade school program like auto body repair, understand your financing options and avoid taking on unnecessary debt. The tips below can help you cover costs more affordably.

Choose the right program

Auto body repair programs can vary widely in quality, cost, and structure. Make sure the program you choose aligns with your goals and includes the hands-on training you'll need to succeed after graduation.

“I heavily believe in experience over certification,” says Giovanni Petruzziello, founder of Legends Auto Boutique in North Haven, Connecticut. “However, in the automotive industry, you do need a certification for most jobs.”

Work part-time

Working while in school can be a smart way to reduce your need for student loans. Even if your job isn't directly related to auto body repair, the extra income can help cover everyday expenses. That said, working in the field while you train can give you a head start after graduation.

“You should find ways to make money, doing what you love,” says Petruzziello.

“Get creative with it. Offer your friends oil changes for less than they would get it done at the dealership,” he says. “Get a side job at an auto body shop washing cars and then stay after hours learning and watching one of the old-timers.”

Look for employer tuition support

Some employers may help pay for your education in exchange for a work commitment, either during or after school.

“You could also consider taking a job where the employer contributes or sponsors further education while you are working for them,” says Cynthia Campos Delgado, founder and financial adviser at Campos Wealth Management.

“Many also offer scholarships. Signing up for a work program through the school to help offset the tuition can be an additional option,” she adds.

Consider your earning potential

Before taking on student debt, compare the cost of your program to what you're likely to earn after graduation. Run the numbers to see which schools offer the best return on your investment.

As a general rule, try not to take out more student loans than what you expect to earn in your first year on the job. This can help keep your payments manageable and make it easier to reach your financial goals.

Only borrow what you need

“It's a good thing to minimize how much you have to borrow for school, as this results in less financial strain,” says John Jones, certified financial planner and investment adviser representative at Heritage Financial. “This is especially important for someone beginning their career.”

Jones suggests seeking out scholarship opportunities to help cover your costs.

“There may be scholarships that aren't necessarily difficult to obtain, and programs can help subsidize a good deal of the cost of education,” he says.