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The Complete Guide to Hondros: Everything You Need to Know About America's Leading Career Education Provider
Are you considering a career in real estate, nursing, home inspection, or mortgage lending? If so, you've likely come across Hondros during your research. With over four decades of experience and more than 500,000 students trained, Hondros has established itself as one of America's premier career education institutions. But is it the right choice for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about Hondros, from their flagship programs and pricing to insider tips on saving money and finding the best deals. Whether you're a prospective student or simply researching your options, this article will help you make an informed decision about your educational investment.
What is Hondros? A Brief Introduction
Founded in 1981 by John G. Hondros as "The Ohio Real Estate Preparatory School," Hondros has evolved into a comprehensive career education provider. Originally focused on real estate exam preparation, the institution has expanded to offer pre-licensing, continuing education, and professional development courses across multiple industries.
Today, Hondros operates under the Hondros Education Group umbrella, which includes several subsidiaries such as Hondros College, Hondros College of Business, Hondros College of Nursing, CompuCram, Arizona School of Real Estate & Business, and the Hogan School of Real Estate.
Hondros's Mission and Values
Hondros positions itself as an institution dedicated to helping individuals find, enter, and succeed in new careers. The organization specializes in careers that offer stability, flexibility, independence, and financial reward. Their student-centric philosophy emphasizes being "success partners" with every learner, providing support throughout the educational journey and beyond.
Accreditation and Recognition
Hondros has received accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the Ohio Department of Higher Education. The school is also registered and certified by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools. For the nursing division, Hondros College of Nursing holds institutional accreditation that allows students to access federal financial aid programs.
Notably, Hondros claims that nine out of ten real estate agents in Ohio have been educated through their programs, highlighting their dominant presence in the state's real estate education market.
Featured Programs and Courses at Hondros
Hondros offers a diverse portfolio of professional education programs. Let's explore their most popular offerings:
Real Estate Education
Real estate courses remain the cornerstone of Hondros's offerings. The institution provides comprehensive education for aspiring real estate professionals in Ohio, Indiana, and other states.
Pre-Licensing Courses:
- Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Pre-Licensing: A 120-hour program covering principles and practices of real estate, real estate law, finance, and appraisal. Students can choose from self-paced online, livestream, or in-person classroom formats.
- Broker Pre-Licensing: Advanced courses for licensed agents seeking to become brokers.
- Indiana Real Estate Programs: Tailored to meet Indiana's specific licensing requirements.
Pricing for Real Estate Programs:
- Quick Start Bundle: Starting at $999
- Complete Pre-Licensing Packages: $300-$600 depending on format and included materials
- Individual Courses: Vary by topic and delivery method
Continuing Education:
- 30-hour packages for license renewal (online or livestream)
- Fundamental packages: $169
- Advanced topics: $169
- Complete 30-hour livestream: $199
- 9-hour Core Requirements: $69
Post-Licensing Education:
- Agent Post-Licensing: Required for newly licensed agents
- Broker Review Package: $999 (includes exam prep and state-required courses)
Nursing Programs
Through Hondros College of Nursing, the institution offers diploma and degree programs in nursing with locations across Ohio and Michigan.
Programs Available:
- Practical Nursing (PN) diploma
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- LPN to RN Bridge programs
Key Features:
- Accelerated program options
- Clinical partnerships with 60+ healthcare providers
- Monthly payment plans instead of quarterly lump sums
- Community partner tuition discounts for employees of partner healthcare organizations
Home Inspection Courses
For those interested in becoming professional home inspectors, Hondros offers three comprehensive packages:
- Basic Package: $1,699
- Career Start Package: $2,499
- Set for Success Package: $2,699
These courses prepare students for state certification and include hands-on training, study materials, and exam preparation.
Other Professional Programs
Appraisal Education: Courses designed to help students meet licensing requirements for real estate appraisers.
Mortgage Education: Training for aspiring mortgage loan officers and mortgage professionals.
Insurance Education: Licensing courses for insurance producers.
General Contractor Education: Ohio Contractor's Business Law course ($214.97) and exam prep ($147).
CompuCram Exam Preparation
CompuCram is Hondros's proprietary exam preparation system, offering a suite of tools to help students pass state licensing exams:
- Practice tests with thousands of questions
- Simulated exams matching state exam format
- Vocabulary flashcards (up to 500 cards)
- Custom Crammer for additional review
- Readiness Indicator to assess preparedness
- First-time pass rate: 86.5%
- 100% pass guarantee or money back
Major Sales and Promotional Events
Like many educational institutions, Hondros offers various promotions throughout the year. Understanding their sales cycles can help you save significantly on tuition.
Seasonal Promotions
Back-to-School Sales (Late Summer/Fall): Typically running from August through September, these promotions often feature discounts on pre-licensing packages as students prepare for career changes in the new school year.
New Year Career Change Promotions (January-February): As people set new career goals for the year, Hondros often runs special promotions on complete pre-licensing bundles.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday: November brings some of the year's best deals, with discounts ranging from 15-30% on select courses and packages.
Ongoing Promotions
Free Open House Events: Hondros regularly hosts free open house events at their campus locations. Attendees receive exclusive discounts on enrollment, often saving $100-$300 on course packages.
First-Time Student Discounts: New students may qualify for welcome discounts, particularly during promotional periods.
Partner Organization Discounts:
- Employer tuition assistance programs
- WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) vouchers
- Military and veteran benefits
- Healthcare provider partnerships (nursing students)
How to Save Money at Hondros
Smart students know that strategic planning can significantly reduce educational costs. Here are proven strategies to save money on Hondros courses:
1. Choose the Right Learning Format
Self-Paced Online Courses: Generally the most affordable option, online courses eliminate commuting costs and often cost less than in-person alternatives. The flexibility also allows you to maintain employment while studying, reducing opportunity costs.
Group Enrollment: Some employers negotiate group rates for multiple employees. If your workplace is sponsoring your education, ask if they've arranged a group discount.
2. Bundle Your Courses
Purchasing complete packages rather than individual courses almost always provides better value. The Quick Start Bundle at $999 includes all required pre-licensing courses, while buying courses individually would cost significantly more.
3. Leverage Employer Benefits
Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs:
- Tuition Assistance Programs (TAP)
- Professional development budgets
- Career advancement stipends
Check with your HR department about available benefits before paying out of pocket.
4. Utilize Government Programs
WIOA Vouchers: The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act provides training funds for eligible individuals. Hondros accepts WIOA funding from many state programs.
Ohio Real Estate Education and Research Fund: Administered by the Ohio Real Estate Commission, this fund may provide financial assistance for eligible Ohio residents pursuing real estate education.
GI Bill and Military Benefits: Veterans and active military members may be able to use educational benefits for certain Hondros programs.
5. Take Advantage of the Audit Policy
Hondros allows students to audit any course once within six months from enrollment date at no charge if space is available. This can be valuable if you need to review material before taking your state exam.
6. Use PayPal Credit
Hondros accepts PayPal Credit, which offers promotional financing options. Qualifying purchases may be eligible for 6 months of no-interest payments, helping you spread costs over time without additional fees.
7. Attend Free Practice Exams and Webinars
Hondros offers free resources including:
- Free real estate practice exam (10 sample questions)
- Exam prep webinars
- Free blueprint eBooks for various careers
These resources help you assess your readiness and may reduce the need for additional paid study materials.
How to Find Coupons, Deals, and Offers for Hondros
Finding valid discount codes can save you hundreds of dollars on Hondros courses. Here's how to locate the best deals:
Official Hondros Channels
1. Hondros Website Promotions Page: Visit www.hondros.com regularly and check for featured promotions. The homepage often displays current offers prominently.
2. Email Newsletter: Subscribe to Hondros's email list to receive exclusive promotions, early access to sales, and special discount codes sent directly to your inbox.
3. Social Media: Follow Hondros on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. They frequently announce flash sales and exclusive social media promotions.
4. Open House Events: Attending a free open house guarantees access to exclusive attendee-only discounts, often ranging from $150-$300 off course packages.
Third-Party Coupon Sites
Several reputable coupon aggregators track Hondros promotions:
Recommended Sites:
- RetailMeNot
- Coupons.com
- Tenere Team (hondros.tenereteam.com/coupons)
- CouponBirds
- Real Estate Licensing Discounts (realestatelicensingdiscounts.com)
Current Promo Codes (Subject to Change)
Based on recent promotions, students have reported success with codes such as:
- FALL200: $200 off pre-licensing packages
- REALESTATE: $150 off any pre-licensing package
- GROW30: $30 off continuing education courses
Important Note: Promo codes expire and change frequently. Always verify the code is current before purchasing, and check multiple sources to find the best available discount.
How to Apply Discount Codes
- Select your desired course or package
- Proceed to checkout
- Look for the "Promo Code" or "Discount Code" field
- Enter your code exactly as shown (case-sensitive)
- Click "Apply" to see your discount reflected in the total
- Complete your purchase
If a code doesn't work, it may be expired, region-specific, or not applicable to your selected product. Try alternative codes or contact Hondros customer service for assistance.
Stacking Discounts
In some cases, you may be able to combine multiple discounts:
- Employer tuition assistance + promotional code
- Military benefits + seasonal sale
- Partner organization discount + payment plan
Always ask Hondros representatives if you can combine available discounts for maximum savings.
Accepted Payment Methods
Hondros offers flexible payment options to accommodate different financial situations:
Standard Payment Methods
Credit and Debit Cards:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- Discover
Payments can be made online through the student portal, by phone, or in person at campus locations.
Cash and Check:
- Accepted at all campus locations
- Checks over $500 subject to a 5-business-day verification hold
- Returned check fee: $30
PayPal: Standard PayPal payments accepted for online purchases.
Financing Options
PayPal Credit:
- Apply during checkout without leaving the Hondros website
- Know approval status within seconds
- Promotional financing available (often 6 months no interest on qualifying purchases)
- No annual fee
Installment Plans:
- Available for Hondros College of Business students
- Monthly payment plans with no fees or interest (nursing programs)
- Must have credit card on file for automatic payments
- Previous plan must be paid in full before enrolling in new plan
Financial Aid (Hondros College of Nursing)
Federal Financial Aid:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Direct Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
- Federal Direct PLUS Loans (for parents)
- Federal Work-Study programs
State Aid:
- Ohio College Opportunity Grant
- Choose Ohio First Scholarship (if available)
Private Loans: Available through various lending institutions for qualifying students.
Important: Real estate, home inspection, and most professional courses at Hondros College do NOT qualify for federal financial aid programs like FAFSA. Only the nursing programs and select degree programs are eligible.
Third-Party Payment
Employers or other organizations can pay directly on a student's behalf. Documentation must be received by Hondros three days before the class start date.
Customer Reviews: Real Student Experiences
Understanding the experiences of actual students provides valuable insight into what you can expect from Hondros. Here's what real students have said:
Positive Reviews
Sarah M., Real Estate Student (Ohio): "I went back and forth with several different institutions when trying to decide where to continue my education with a goal of obtaining my Broker's license. Hondros was the only school that took the time to go over several options with me including informing me that I could easily achieve my Associates Degree as well through them! So far I've learned so much from my courses and have been able to have the perfect balance with work, school, and family!"
Jennifer K., Continuing Education Student: "I knew from day one I loved working with Hondros. I took their courses to become a Real Estate Agent, use them for all of my continuing education, and now using Hondros to obtain my Associate Degree. The pricing for everything they offer is so reasonable. The professors genuinely want you to succeed."
Michael R., Pre-Licensing Student: "Ohio course was very easy to take remotely. Way better than having to go to a local school in person. I liked going at my own pace. Would definitely take course again."
Amanda T., Broker Student: "Hondros has amazing staff and Professors. The caring that they have for their students is obvious in all that they do. They are truly success partners. I am so happy that I chose them to get my Broker's License. TOP NOTCH!"
Robert P., Business Student: "Enrolling with Hondros to pursue my degree has been one of the best decisions and investments I've made for myself. The flexibility of being able to complete coursework during times that work for my schedule is invaluable and their online platform is very easy to use."
Constructive Feedback
Jessica L., Former Student: "I paid a lot more than I got out of it compared to other options on the market. I would recommend agents choose another school. Hondros is ok, but I've heard from friends that there are better options for the money."
David H., Real Estate Student: "I felt like the Hondros course wasn't very intuitive. The online portal looks like it hasn't been updated since 2012. It works, but don't expect Netflix-level streaming."
Emily S., Classroom Student (Yelp Review): "Great facilities. Did my post licensing course here. Staff was good too. Was really impressed with the facilities though—a lot better condition than the school in Akron where I took my pre licensing courses."
Key Takeaways from Reviews
Strengths:
- Knowledgeable, supportive instructors with extensive industry experience
- Flexible learning formats (online, livestream, in-person)
- Comprehensive exam preparation with high pass rates
- Reasonable pricing compared to national competitors
- Strong campus facilities and student support
- Tailored to Ohio and Indiana state requirements
Areas for Improvement:
- Online platform interface could be more modern
- Some students find better value at competitor institutions
- Course content could be more engaging in certain areas
Overall Satisfaction: The majority of students express satisfaction with Hondros, particularly praising the instructor quality, flexible learning options, and exam preparation effectiveness. The institution's 86.5% first-time pass rate for students using CompuCram speaks to the quality of their exam preparation.
Return and Exchange Policy
Understanding Hondros's refund policy is crucial before making your purchase. Here's what you need to know:
Cancellation Within 30 Days
Full Refund Eligibility: Students who register, pay, and do not start class may cancel their registration and request a full refund within 30 days of purchase, minus a $50 processing fee. No refund will be issued after 30 days if the course has not been started.
Right to Cancel (Hondros College of Nursing): Nursing students may cancel their enrollment at any time up through the end of Wednesday of the second calendar week of their first enrollment quarter for a full refund.
Withdrawal After Starting Courses
If you've started your course and decide to withdraw, Hondros applies a tiered refund structure based on course completion percentage:
Refund Schedule (Hondros College):
- 0-15% completed: Receive 75% refund (obligated for 25% of tuition)
- 15-25% completed: Receive 50% refund (obligated for 50% of tuition)
- 25-40% completed: Receive 25% refund (obligated for 75% of tuition)
- 40%+ completed: No refund available
Textbook Refunds
Physical Textbooks:
- Physical textbooks are non-refundable once opened
- Any course refund that included physical textbooks will be reduced by a $50 refund fee
- Textbooks must be returned in original packaging within 30 days for refund consideration
- Vocabulary cards purchased separately are non-refundable
CompuCram Refund
CompuCram offers a "Pass or Don't Pay" money-back guarantee:
- If you complete the CompuCram course but fail your first exam attempt, you're entitled to a full refund of exam fees (up to $150)
- Email your exam score report to [email protected] to request the refund
Processing Times
Credit Card Refunds: Processed within 3 business days Check or Cash Refunds: Processed within 30 days
Extension Policy
Instead of withdrawing, students may request a course extension:
- 3-month extension: $150 (non-refundable)
- 6-month extension: $200 (non-refundable)
- Original course access: 6 months from enrollment
- After 2 years: Must pay full tuition to retake incomplete courses
How to Request a Refund
For Different Program Types:
- Classroom Courses: Call 888-HONDROS (466-3767)
- Online Courses: Email [email protected] or call 866-455-3278
- CompuCram: Email [email protected] or call 877-812-3269
Important Considerations
Fees That Are Non-Refundable:
- $50 refund processing fee
- Shipping charges
- Physical textbooks (unless returned unopened in original packaging within 30 days)
- Prepaid fingerprinting services (refundable only within 30 days with original receipt)
Military Leave Exception: Active military members receiving deployment orders may withdraw without penalty and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees, subject to federal and state financial aid regulations.
Contact Information
Having questions or needing support? Hondros offers multiple ways to reach their team:
General Contact
Main Phone Number: 1-888-HONDROS (1-888-466-3767)
Hours of Operation:
- Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM EST
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM EST
- Sunday and Holidays: Closed
General Email: [email protected]
Alternative Phone: 1-800-282-7972
Department-Specific Contacts
Student Services: For questions about courses, locations, pricing, or financing options Phone: 1-888-HONDROS (466-3767) Email: [email protected]
Online Course Support: Email: [email protected] Phone: 866-455-3278
CompuCram Support: Email: [email protected] Phone: 877-812-3269
Financial Aid (Hondros College of Nursing): Email: [email protected]
Bursar's Office (Hondros College of Nursing): Email: [email protected]
Refund Requests: Email exam score reports to: [email protected]
Campus Locations
Hondros College of Business - Westerville (Headquarters): 4140 Executive Parkway Westerville, Ohio
Additional Ohio Campuses:
- Columbus
- Cleveland
- Cincinnati
- Dayton
- Toledo
- Akron
Hondros College of Nursing Locations:
- Westerville, Ohio
- West Chester, Ohio
- Maumee, Ohio
- Michigan Campus
Online Resources
Official Website: www.hondros.com
Student Portal: online.hondros.com
Social Media: Follow Hondros on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter for updates, promotions, and industry news.
How to Provide Feedback
If you have feedback about your experience with Hondros:
- Use the thumbs up/down feature on course materials
- Contact your instructor directly
- Reach out to Student Services
- Submit reviews on independent platforms like Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About Hondros Programs
Q: Is Hondros accredited? A: Yes, Hondros has received accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the Ohio Department of Higher Education. The school is also registered and certified by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools.
Q: How long does it take to complete the real estate pre-licensing program? A: Most students complete the 120-hour Ohio real estate pre-licensing program in 2-3 months, depending on their chosen format and study pace. Self-paced online students have 6 months to complete their courses from the date of enrollment.
Q: Can I switch between learning formats (online, livestream, in-person)? A: Yes! Hondros allows students to change their learning method at any time. You can start online and switch to in-person classes, or vice versa. Contact student services at 1-888-HONDROS to make the change.
Q: What is the difference between online and livestream learning? A: Online learning is self-paced, allowing you to complete courses on your own schedule. Livestream learning is instructor-led in real-time via Zoom, with scheduled class times. Both formats cover the same material and lead to the same certification.
About Costs and Payment
Q: Does Hondros accept FAFSA/federal financial aid? A: Federal financial aid (FAFSA) is available ONLY for Hondros College of Nursing programs and select degree programs at Hondros College of Business. Real estate, home inspection, appraisal, and most professional certification courses do NOT qualify for federal financial aid.
Q: Can I pay in installments? A: Yes, Hondros offers payment plans:
- PayPal Credit (often 6 months no interest on qualifying purchases)
- Installment plans for College of Business students
- Monthly payment plans for nursing students (no fees or interest)
- Employer payment arrangements
Q: Are there scholarships available? A: Hondros offers various scholarships through their website. Additionally, nursing students may qualify for federal and state grants, as well as employer tuition discounts through community partner healthcare organizations (60+ partners).
About Exams and Pass Rates
Q: What is Hondros's pass rate? A: Hondros reports that students who follow their recommended program of study have a pass rate of 86.5% on their first attempt when using CompuCram exam prep. This is significantly higher than the national average.
Q: Does Hondros offer a money-back guarantee? A: Yes, select pre-licensing packages include a "Pass or Don't Pay" guarantee. If you complete the program and fail your first exam attempt, you receive a full refund of exam fees up to $150. Additionally, CompuCram offers a 100% pass guarantee.
Q: How many times can I take the state exam? A: The number of exam attempts is determined by your state licensing board, not by Hondros. In Ohio, there is no limit on attempts, but you must wait 30 days between attempts and pay the exam fee each time.
About Course Access and Extensions
Q: How long do I have to complete my courses? A: Once you purchase courses, you have 6 months to complete them. Extensions are available for an additional fee: $150 for 3 months or $200 for 6 months.
Q: Can I retake a course if I didn't pass? A: Yes, Hondros allows students to audit any course once within 6 months at no charge if space is available. After one free audit, you must pay full price to retake the course.
Q: What happens if I don't complete my courses within 6 months? A: If you need more time, you can purchase an extension. If 2 years pass from your enrollment date and you haven't completed the school exam successfully, you must pay full tuition and retake incomplete classes.
About Career Placement and Support
Q: Does Hondros help with job placement? A: Yes, Hondros provides opportunities for job placement, networking, and industry connections. They host free networking events where students can connect with potential sponsoring brokers and employers. However, they do not guarantee job placement.
Q: Do I need a sponsoring broker before taking the state exam? A: No, you can take the state exam without a sponsoring broker. However, you must have a sponsoring broker to activate your license and begin working. Hondros hosts networking events to help connect students with brokers.
Q: How long is my license valid? A: In Ohio, real estate licenses must be renewed every three years. You'll need to complete 30 hours of continuing education during each renewal period. Hondros offers comprehensive CE packages to meet these requirements.
About Specific Career Paths
Q: Can I become a broker immediately after getting my salesperson license? A: No, Ohio requires at least 2 years of full-time real estate sales experience (or equivalent part-time) before you can apply for a broker's license. You'll also need to complete the required broker education courses.
Q: Is home inspection a good career? A: Home inspection can be a rewarding career with flexibility and independence. According to industry data, home inspectors can earn $40,000-$70,000+ annually depending on location, experience, and volume of inspections. Hondros's comprehensive training prepares you for state certification.
Q: What's the job outlook for real estate agents? A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady demand for real estate agents. Success varies greatly based on market conditions, individual effort, marketing skills, and local competition. Real estate offers unlimited income potential but requires entrepreneurial drive.
Technical and Administrative
Q: Can I access my courses on mobile devices? A: Yes, Hondros's online platform is accessible from computers, tablets, and smartphones. However, some students report that the mobile experience could be more optimized.
Q: Are textbooks included in the course price? A: This varies by package. Some complete packages include textbooks, while others require separate purchase. Always verify what's included before purchasing. Remember that physical textbooks are non-refundable once opened.
Q: Can I get a transcript of my completed courses? A: Yes, official transcripts are available for $15 each. The college does not withhold transcripts for any reason, even if you have an outstanding balance.
Q: How do I verify my education for license applications? A: Education verification is available for an $80 fee. Contact student services to request verification documentation for your state licensing board.
Is Hondros Right for You?
After examining Hondros comprehensively, here's what you should consider:
Choose Hondros if:
- You're pursuing a real estate career in Ohio or Indiana
- You value flexibility in learning formats
- You want strong exam preparation with proven results
- You prefer an established institution with decades of experience
- You benefit from in-person campus resources
- You want access to networking and job placement support
Consider alternatives if:
- You're located outside Ohio/Indiana and need state-specific training elsewhere
- You prioritize cutting-edge online platform interfaces
- You're looking for the absolute lowest price (though shop carefully, as Hondros is competitive)
- You prefer fully online-only institutions with no physical presence
The Bottom Line: Hondros offers solid, comprehensive career education with strong exam pass rates, flexible learning options, and reasonable pricing. While their online platform may not be the flashiest, their experienced instructors, proven curriculum, and student support systems have helped over 500,000 students launch successful careers.
For Ohio and Indiana residents pursuing real estate, nursing, home inspection, or related careers, Hondros deserves serious consideration. Take advantage of their free open house events, compare packages carefully, use available discount codes, and choose the learning format that matches your style.
Remember: your education is an investment in your future. The key isn't just finding the cheapest option, but finding the best value that sets you up for long-term career success. With strategic planning, coupon codes, employer benefits, and smart timing, you can maximize your Hondros education while minimizing costs.
Ready to get started? Visit www.hondros.com, attend a free open house, or call 1-888-HONDROS to speak with a career specialist who can help you choose the right program for your goals.
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