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Auto Mechanic Schools in Ames, Iowa

Updated October 10, 2026

Compare Auto Mechanic programs near Ames, Iowa.

  • Use the school listing to compare providers and locations.
  • Review common formats, timelines, and requirements below.
  • Availability, pricing, and requirements can vary by school.

Auto Mechanic Schools Near Ames, Iowa

#1

Des Moines Area Community College

Ankeny, IA 22 miles away BOC Score 50.0

Des Moines Area Community College is a Public, 2-year in Ankeny, IA serving about 10,446 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $5,790
  • Out-of-state tuition: $6,690
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 39%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Marshalltown Community College

Marshalltown, IA 36.8 miles away BOC Score 59.9

Marshalltown Community College is a Public, 2-year in Marshalltown, IA serving about 868 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $5,304
  • Out-of-state tuition: $5,808
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 42%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Iowa Central Community College

Fort Dodge, IA 43.5 miles away BOC Score 54.0

Iowa Central Community College is a Public, 2-year in Fort Dodge, IA serving about 3,107 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $5,376
  • Out-of-state tuition: $7,668
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 42%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

Hawkeye Community College

Waterloo, IA 71.8 miles away BOC Score 54.6

Hawkeye Community College is a Public, 2-year in Waterloo, IA serving about 2,626 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,525
  • Out-of-state tuition: $6,612
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 43%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#5

Southwestern Community College

Creston, IA 76.4 miles away BOC Score 57.2

Southwestern Community College is a Public, 2-year in Creston, IA serving about 729 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $8,064
  • Out-of-state tuition: $8,316
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 59%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#6

North Iowa Area Community College

Mason City, IA 82.5 miles away BOC Score 57.1

North Iowa Area Community College is a Public, 2-year in Mason City, IA serving about 1,320 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,653
  • Out-of-state tuition: $9,551
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 61%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#7

Indian Hills Community College

Ottumwa, IA 93.2 miles away BOC Score 56.1

Indian Hills Community College is a Public, 2-year in Ottumwa, IA serving about 1,635 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $4,872
  • Out-of-state tuition: $6,120
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 40%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#8

Kirkwood Community College

Cedar Rapids, IA 101.5 miles away BOC Score 56.3

Kirkwood Community College is a Public, 2-year in Cedar Rapids, IA serving about 7,438 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $5,980
  • Out-of-state tuition: $7,968
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 43%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#9

Iowa Lakes Community College

Estherville, IA 113.1 miles away BOC Score 59.8

Iowa Lakes Community College is a Public, 2-year in Estherville, IA serving about 995 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $7,196
  • Out-of-state tuition: $7,644
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 50%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#10

Northeast Iowa Community College

Calmar, IA 119.2 miles away BOC Score 56.6

Northeast Iowa Community College is a Public, 2-year in Calmar, IA serving about 1,697 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,780
  • Out-of-state tuition: $7,770
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 51%

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Training formats

  • Campus: in-person instruction with labs (when applicable)
  • Hybrid: a mix of online coursework and required in-person sessions
  • Online: some programs offer online coursework; hands-on components may still be required

Typical timelines

CredentialCommon RangeNotes
Certificate / DiplomaMonthsOften the fastest route; availability varies by school
Associate Degree~2 yearsMay include general education and broader coursework

What to compare

  • Program outcomes: what the curriculum covers and what it does not cover
  • Hands-on training: labs, externships, clinicals, or shop time (when applicable)
  • Schedule: start dates, evening/weekend options, part-time availability
  • Total cost: tuition, fees, books, tools, and uniforms (confirm with the school)
  • Requirements: prerequisites, background checks, immunizations, or driving record rules (if applicable)
  • Accreditation and approvals: what matters for your credential or licensing path
  • Exam/licensing prep: preparation and required hours (varies by state)

Questions to ask schools

  • Which credential do students earn, and what are the graduation requirements?
  • What is the weekly schedule and the expected time commitment?
  • What equipment, tools, or uniforms are required, and what do they cost?
  • Does the program prepare students for required exams or supervised hours (if applicable)?
  • Are transfer credits accepted, and are there prerequisites?

Labor market snapshot

Nearby cities in Iowa

About this page

GoTradeSchools.com is a comparison and discovery directory. Program availability depends on location, and details may vary by school. Always verify accreditation, admissions requirements, and licensing rules with the provider and your state.

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