Class 101 Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Class 101, founded in 1997 by Tom Pabin in Lexington, Kentucky, is a nationwide college planning franchise dedicated to guiding high school students through the complex process of college admissions. With its headquarters now located in Bedford, Texas, Class 101 has expanded its reach to 65 locations across 28 states.
The franchise offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to assist students in every aspect of college preparation.
These services include developing personalized college lists, organizing campus visits, improving academic performance, providing ACT/SAT/PSAT test preparation, enhancing resumes, crafting compelling college essays, managing application deadlines, exploring scholarship opportunities, and navigating financial aid processes such as FAFSA.
What sets Class 101 apart from its competitors is its proven track record of success and personalized approach. The franchise’s methods have resulted in an average acceptance rate of 85% for its students, with each student receiving an average of $200,000 in merit scholarships.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Class 101 franchise? It costs on average between $84,000 - $138,000 to start a Class 101 franchised business.
This includes costs for office setup, technology, marketing, and initial operational expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the location, the size of the territory, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase office space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $49,900 – $49,900 |
| Lease Payments (one month rent and security deposit) | $0 – $7,000 |
| Leasehold and Tenant Improvements | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| Signage (Exterior and Interior) | $2,000 – $12,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Computer Systems, A/V, Security and Other Systems | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Training Related Expenses | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Legal, Accounting and other Professional Fees | $1,500 – $7,000 |
| Insurance Deposit | $1,440 – $1,840 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $500 – $1,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Initial Supplies | $500 – $1,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $83,700 – $138,300 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Class 101 franchise? A Class 101franchised facility makes on average $166,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Class 101 Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Class 101 franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Class 101’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure. See SharpSheets financial model hub for guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Class 101 franchise investment?
Payback periods typically run 3-7 years depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Class 101?
Class 101 is owned by its founder, Tom Pabin. Established in the late 1990s, Tom launched the company to assist students and families in navigating the complex college admissions process.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: September 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Class 101 franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Class 101 FDD Review.
