What to Do After High School – 10 Alternatives to College

A Teenage Girl with A Backpack Standing in A School Hallway, Representing the Question of What to Do After High School

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High school is over—now what? If the idea of spending four (or more) years in college, racking up student debt, and sitting through endless lectures doesn’t excite you, you’re not alone. The truth is, that college isn’t the only path to success.

In the survey, 30% of 2023 high school grads reported being unaware of career and technical education programs.

Nowadays, there are plenty of high-paying, rewarding careers that don’t require a degree—and many allow you to start earning money right away.

Whether you want to work with your hands, start your own business, travel the world, or master a high-income skill, there are tons of options that don’t involve a traditional classroom.

1. Trade Schools – Get Job-Ready in Two Years or Less

A Man Presenting to A Small Group in A Bright Room
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Trade programs are quick, affordable, and job-focused

If you like working with your hands and want a stable, well-paying career without drowning in student loans, trade school could be a great option. Unlike college, trade programs are shorter (6 months to 2 years), cheaper (average cost: $5,000–$15,000 total), and lead directly to in-demand jobs.

Popular Skilled Trades

  • Electrician ($60,000+ median salary)
  • Plumber ($55,000+ median salary)
  • HVAC Technician ($50,000–$80,000)
  • Welder ($45,000+ with the potential to earn six figures in specialized fields)
  • Auto Mechanic ($46,000+ with potential for higher earnings through certifications)

Tip: Many trade jobs offer apprenticeships, meaning you get paid while learning. Search for opportunities through local unions, technical schools, or government programs like the Registered Apprenticeship Program (apprenticeship.gov).

2. Start a Business


Ever thought about turning a passion or skill into a career? Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding paths out there.

Business Ideas (Low Start-Up Costs)

  • Freelancing (writing, graphic design, social media management)
  • E-commerce (reselling, dropshipping, print-on-demand)
  • Lawn care, cleaning services, or handyman work
  • Tutoring or coaching in a subject or skill you’re good at
  • Home bakery or meal prep service

Tip: Start by validating your business idea before investing too much time or money. Sell a few products or services to test demand. Use free marketing methods like social media, networking, and word-of-mouth before paying for ads. Keep expenses low in the beginning—many profitable businesses start from a laptop and a smartphone. Also, check if your city offers grants or small business programs for young entrepreneurs.

3. Military Service – Get Paid to Train, Travel, and Learn

A Young Man in Military Uniform Standing Outdoors with Sunlight in The Background
Some roles offer big bonuses ($20K–$50K) and skills for civilian jobs

The U.S. military offers more than combat roles—it’s a career pipeline with free training, medical benefits, housing, and tuition assistance.

Benefits

  • Salary + housing + food included
  • GI Bill covers full college tuition later if you want it
  • Careers in engineering, cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, logistics, and more
  • Travel to different states or even overseas
Tip: Before enlisting, talk to multiple recruiters and research different job roles (MOS in the Army, AFSC in the Air Force, etc.). Some roles offer huge signing bonuses ($20K–$50K) and civilian job transferability (cybersecurity, mechanics, logistics). Use resources like r/military on Reddit to get real advice from current service members. Also, check out ROTC or National Guard options if you want military benefits while staying close to home.

4. Apprenticeships – Learn a Trade & Get Paid


Search for paid apprenticeships through union halls, trade organizations, and large companies like Tesla, Boeing, or Amazon. Many apprenticeships lead to six-figure salaries after a few years. Also, consider internships at local businesses as a stepping stone. Some employers will train you on the job, even without a formal apprenticeship.

Best Apprenticeship Fields

  • Electrician ($70K+ after experience)
  • Cybersecurity (earn over $100K with skills)
  • Auto Repair (specialized mechanics make six figures)
  • Carpentry & Construction (consistent demand & high pay)

Where to Find Them

  • Apprenticeship.gov (U.S. Department of Labor)
  • Local trade unions (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
  • Large corporations like Amazon, Google, and IBM now offer tech apprenticeships

5. Work Abroad – Travel & Make Money

@jetsetkeri The best job EVER🫶🏽✨ #travelugc #travelcreator #contentcreatortips #ugctipsandtricks ♬ original sound – JetSetKeri


If you’re itching to see the world, working overseas is an exciting way to gain independence, learn new cultures, and save money.

Jobs That Let You Travel

  • Teaching English Abroad ($1,500–$3,500/month in Asia or Europe)
  • Cruise Ship Work (hospitality, entertainment, medical, IT)
  • Work & Holiday Programs (Australia, New Zealand, Canada offer 1-year work visas)
Tip: Look into work exchange programs like Workaway, WWOOF, and HelpX, where you can travel for free in exchange for labor (like helping on farms or hostels). If you’re teaching English, get TEFL-certified online before applying—it boosts pay and opens jobs in high-paying countries like Japan, South Korea, or the UAE. Some cruise lines and resorts hire young employees for seasonal contracts with free housing and meals.

While college isn’t the only option, for those who do decide to pursue higher education, getting into the right school can make a huge difference. Working with top college admissions consulting firms can help you navigate applications, essays, and financial aid to improve your chances of getting into your dream college without unnecessary stress.

6. Full-Time Job – Gain Experience & Save Money

Two Men Wearing Headsets Working in An Air Traffic Control Tower
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, ATC requires breaks every 90–120 minutes for safety

Some people start working right after high school and climb the ranks without ever needing a degree.

High-Paying Jobs Without College

  • Air Traffic Controller ($125,000)
  • Real Estate Agent ($50K–$100K+)
  • Sales Representative ($60K–$150K with commissions)
  • Commercial Truck Driver ($60K+ with CDL license)
Tip: Start at a company with clear career growth (think sales, logistics, or finance). Many employers pay for industry certifications if you show initiative. If you’re unsure what to do, look for job shadowing programs or ask to intern for a few months before committing. Also, consider getting a mentor in the field you’re interested in—it helps avoid mistakes and speeds up career growth.

7. High-Income Skills – No Degree Needed

 

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Some skills pay just as well as a degree without the debt.

In-Demand Skills

  • Coding & Web Development (Entry-level: $50K+, Experienced: $100K+)
  • Digital Marketing (SEO, social media, email marketing)
  • Graphic Design (freelance or agency work)
  • Copywriting (businesses pay $$$ for good writing)
Tip: Choose a skill that combines creativity and tech (for example: UX design, digital marketing, or coding). Start by offering services for free or cheap to build a portfolio, then raise prices as you improve. Sites like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube have free tutorials. Once you’re confident, apply for freelance gigs on Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal—some freelancers make over $100K/year without a degree!

8. Volunteer or Join a Service Program


Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it can open unexpected career doors. Some programs (like AmeriCorps) offer stipends and scholarships after completion. If you volunteer at a hospital, school, or nonprofit, you might get hired full-time based on experience.

Keep a log of skills learned, contacts made, and leadership roles—it can be just as powerful as a college degree on a résumé.

Programs like:

  • AmeriCorps (Serve communities, get money for college)
  • Peace Corps (Travel internationally, help communities, gain experience)
  • Local charities or nonprofits (great for networking & skill-building)

Perks

  • Experience in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving
  • Potential stipends or scholarships after service

9. Real Estate – Earn Big Without a Degree

A Man in A Beige Suit Standing in A Bright Room with Large Windows and Indoor Plants
Be a real estate agent with commissions and flexible hours

Real estate investing or becoming an agent can lead to financial freedom early in life.

Options

  • Become a real estate agent (commission-based, flexible hours)
  • House hacking (buy a duplex, rent out one side, live for free)
  • Fix-and-flip houses (profit from renovations)
Tip: Start by learning from successful investors through books, podcasts, and YouTube (BiggerPockets is a great resource). If becoming an agent, join a brokerage that offers training and mentorship. If investing, try house hacking (buying a duplex, renting out one side) to live for free. Also, look into real estate wholesaling, which lets you flip contracts without actually buying property—some people make $10K–$20K per deal.

10. Creative Careers – Monetize a Passion

A Young Person Focused on Typing on A Laptop in A Dimly Lit Room
Share daily on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube

If you love art, music, photography, or writing, you can turn it into a business.

Ways to Make Money

  • Sell art on Etsy or Redbubble
  • Start a YouTube or TikTok channel
  • Freelance in writing, photography, or illustration
Tip: Instead of waiting for clients, put your work out there daily on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. Offer free or discounted work for a few people to build credibility, then use their testimonials to attract paid clients. If you’re into art, music, or writing, try selling digital products (e-books, online courses, templates) instead of trading time for money. Many creators make a passive income this way.
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Thomas Caldwell

I’m Dr. Thomas "Tom" Caldwell, a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience, having taught at prestigious institutions. Now, as a dedicated freelance English teacher, I specialize in delivering engaging and personalized online courses, while also helping students manage their time better and achieve better performance. My passion for literature and innovative teaching methods makes my classes dynamic and impactful. Through LSUUniversityRec.com, I aim to inspire a diverse range of students to love literature and excel in their studies.