Education decisions involve money, time and often children, so they deserve careful checks. The right tools depend on what kind of provider you are considering.
Childcare and early learning
Childcare centers and many home-based providers must be licensed by the state. Every state publishes information about licensed providers, and ChildCare.gov, from the US Department of Health and Human Services, links to each state's search tool and inspection reports.
- Check the license status and read recent inspection or monitoring reports.
- Ask about staff-to-child ratios, background checks and staff training in first aid and CPR.
- Visit in person, ideally more than once, and ask how the provider communicates with parents.
Colleges, universities and career schools
Accreditation matters because it affects eligibility for federal student aid and whether credits transfer. Use the US Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) to confirm that a school is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Be cautious of "accreditation" from organizations that are not recognized.
The Department's College Scorecard shows costs, graduation rates, typical debt and earnings after attendance for many institutions and programs, which makes side-by-side comparison much easier.
Tutors and test prep
Private tutoring is largely unregulated, so evaluate the individual:
- Ask about subject expertise, teaching experience and familiarity with the specific curriculum or exam.
- Request a trial session and a clear plan with goals.
- For minors, ask whether the tutor has had a background check, and prefer sessions in shared spaces or with a parent nearby.
- Read the cancellation and refund policy before buying a package of sessions.
Trade schools, licensing courses and bootcamps
| Check | How |
|---|---|
| State authorization | Many states require private career schools to be approved by a state agency; search your state's postsecondary education or workforce agency |
| Licensing exam eligibility | If the course prepares you for a license, confirm with the licensing board that it counts |
| Outcomes | Ask for completion and job placement rates, how they are calculated and whether they are independently audited |
| Total cost | Get tuition, fees, materials and financing terms in writing |
K-12 schools
State education departments publish school report cards with test results, attendance and other measures. Combine the data with a visit: ask about class sizes, support services and how the school communicates with families.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check whether a college is accredited?
Search the US Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP).
Where can I find childcare inspection reports?
ChildCare.gov links to each state's licensed-provider search, which usually includes inspection or monitoring reports.
Do private tutors need a license?
Generally no, so ask about experience, request a trial session and, for children, ask about background checks.
Sources are official government, regulator and professional-body resources named in the text. We do not accept payment from any organization mentioned. See our editorial standards.