Modeling school and classes, according to Tyra Banks, are not too legitimate. Their purpose is to make money from giving people false hopes for a modeling career. Yet according to Banks the modeling agency's role should be to recruit, train, photograph and promote beautiful, natural, gifted young women and girls and get modeling jobs for them, for a percentage of the modeling fee. Since so many agencies don't make enough money or find, develop and book enough talented young women, they fleece the young women, saying they will train them and get fees from the model wannabes.
Consider these things: Get a professional photographer to get fashion glossy photos of you in swim wear, evening wear, sportswear, business and leisure outfits. Make sure you are in a reputable, photo studio and take someone with you. Visit several studios to get the best price and see their work before you contract with them. The cost of putting together a fashion portfolio (little or no make-up) should not be more than $500.00, but you may get at least 4-6 really good photos for about $300.00. Now, once you get the portfolio done, investigate the most reputable modeling agencies and shop your portfolio around in person. And finally, consider that if you're under 5 feet, 8 inches you most likely will not be doing runway work.
Talk to the best modeling agencies to find out about different types of modeling (runway, print, catalog, etc., spokesperson) and ask them what they look for in a model, what types of photos a potential model should take and for any other tips that might help you. Otherwise, keep your money in your pocket, as far as not paying to go to modeling school. Best of luck to you.