Best Real Estate Licensing Schools in Bloomington Minnesota

Key Takeaways

• Minnesota requires 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can sit for the real estate salesperson exam.
• Bloomington students can choose between nationally recognized online schools and respected Minnesota-based in-person programs.
• The best school for you depends on learning style, budget, schedule flexibility, and exam pass support.
• Top providers offer exam prep tools, pass guarantees, and strong student reviews.
• This guide compares pricing, formats, strengths, and ideal candidates for each leading option.

How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Minnesota

Before choosing a school, understand what the Minnesota Department of Commerce requires:

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

1. Complete 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education (Course I, II, and III).
2. Pass the Minnesota Real Estate Salesperson Exam through Pearson VUE.
3. Affiliate with a licensed Minnesota real estate broker.
4. Submit your license application to the state.

Most students complete the 90 hours in 4 to 10 weeks depending on schedule. Tuition in Minnesota typically ranges from $300 to $800.

Best Real Estate Licensing Schools Serving Bloomington, Minnesota

The schools below are approved for Minnesota pre-licensing education and widely chosen by Bloomington residents. Rankings are based on course flexibility, pricing transparency, student support, exam prep tools, and reputation.

1. Kaplan Real Estate Education

Kaplan is one of the most established names in real estate education nationwide, with strong offerings tailored to Minnesota requirements.

Feature Details Format Online self-paced, live online, and some in-person options Estimated Cost $500 to $800 depending on package Exam Prep Integrated QBank, practice exams, performance tracker Best For Students who want structure and exam-focused tools

Pros:

• Robust exam prep system with analytics
• Mobile-friendly learning platform
• Longstanding national reputation

Considerations: Higher price point than some competitors.

2. The CE Shop

The CE Shop is a fully online provider known for intuitive design and competitive pricing.

Feature Details Format 100% self-paced online Estimated Cost $315 to $600 with frequent discounts Exam Prep Exam Edge practice tests, progress dashboards Best For Independent learners seeking flexibility

Pros:

• Lower average pricing
• User-friendly interface
• Pass guarantee on qualifying packages

Considerations: No in-person support for students who prefer classroom interaction.

3. Edina Realty Real Estate School

Edina Realty Real Estate School is Minnesota-based and highly relevant to Bloomington students entering the Twin Cities market.

Feature Details Format Online and live virtual courses Estimated Cost $400 to $700 Market Focus Strong Twin Cities brokerage presence Best For Students seeking local networking opportunities

Pros:

• Local brand recognition
• Career placement pathways into brokerage
• Regional market-focused curriculum

Considerations: May feel brokerage-oriented for students wanting complete independence.

4. Colibri Real Estate

Colibri Real Estate offers pre-licensing, exam prep, and continuing education across Minnesota.

Feature Details Format Online self-paced Estimated Cost $350 to $650 Support Instructor Q&A and study schedules Best For Students wanting guided online learning

Pros:

• Structured study plans
• Solid exam prep support
• Continuing education options

Considerations: Less local branding compared to Minnesota-based schools.

Online vs. In-Person Classes in Bloomington

Bloomington is part of the competitive Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. Your choice of format can impact speed, cost, and networking.

Online Classes

• Flexible for working professionals
• Typically lower cost
• Complete at your own pace

Live Virtual or In-Person

• Structured schedule improves accountability
• Direct instructor interaction
• Better for students who prefer guided discussions

If you are changing careers while working full time in Bloomington, online programs often provide the fastest path to licensure.

How to Choose the Right School for Your Goals

1. If You Want the Fastest Completion

Choose self-paced online programs like The CE Shop or Colibri. You can complete 90 hours in a few weeks with focused study.

2. If You Want Maximum Exam Preparation

Kaplan’s analytics-driven prep tools and practice banks add significant testing confidence.

3. If You Want Local Networking in Bloomington

Edina Realty connects you directly to one of the region’s largest brokerages, which can ease your transition into your first role.

4. If You Are Budget-Conscious

Look for bundled packages and seasonal discounts. Many online schools offer promotional pricing that reduces tuition by 20 to 40 percent.

Career Outlook for Bloomington Real Estate Agents

Bloomington’s proximity to Minneapolis, the Mall of America, and major employers creates consistent housing demand. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, real estate sales remains a stable profession statewide.

New agents typically start under a broker with commission splits ranging from 50 percent to 80 percent. Income potential varies widely based on production, brokerage model, and local market conditions.

Continuing Education Requirements in Minnesota

After licensing, Minnesota agents must complete 30 hours of continuing education during each two-year license cycle, including mandatory topics set by the state. Providers such as Kaplan, The CE Shop, and Colibri also offer CE courses.

You can verify approved education providers and requirements directly through the Minnesota Commerce Real Estate Division.

What Sets the Best Real Estate Schools Apart

When evaluating programs, look beyond price:

• State approval and accreditation
• Transparent course breakdown of all 90 hours
• Practice exams aligned with Minnesota content outlines
• Instructor availability for questions
• Strong online platform usability

The best school for Bloomington residents combines exam readiness, affordability, and practical market preparation. By matching your learning style and budget to the right approved provider, you can complete your education efficiently and move confidently toward launching your Minnesota real estate career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Minnesota Real Estate Schools and Licensing

How many education hours do you need to become a real estate agent in Minnesota?

You must complete 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education (Course I, II, and III) before you can sit for the Minnesota real estate salesperson exam. You can confirm this requirement on the Minnesota Department of Commerce real estate page.

How long does it usually take to finish the 90-hour Minnesota real estate course?

Most students in Minnesota finish the 90 hours in about 4 to 10 weeks, depending on schedule and study pace. Self-paced online programs can be faster if you study several hours per day, while live virtual or classroom formats follow a set calendar.

How much does Minnesota real estate school cost for Bloomington students?

Pre-licensing packages in Minnesota usually range from about $300 to $800, depending on the school, format, and exam prep tools. You can compare current pricing directly on sites like Kaplan, The CE Shop, and Colibri Real Estate.

Is online real estate school accepted for Minnesota licensing?

Yes. Online courses are accepted as long as the provider is approved by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Many Bloomington students complete all 90 hours online through approved schools and then take the licensing exam with Pearson VUE.

What are the steps to get your real estate license in Minnesota?

You complete 90 hours of approved education, pass the Minnesota Real Estate Salesperson Exam with Pearson VUE, choose a licensed Minnesota broker to work with, and have the broker submit your license application through the Minnesota Commerce real estate licensing portal.

What continuing education do Minnesota real estate agents need?

You must complete 30 hours of approved continuing education every two-year license period, including mandatory Minnesota-specific modules. You can review current CE rules on the Minnesota Commerce CE requirements page.