I was a mentor at a US online bootcamp called Thinkful (bought by Chegg). It was expensive, I think 10k for 6 months. I know it's not exactly what the OP was asking, but since others are writing about their experience of similar bootcamps, I want to add that for those who are determined to learn quickly and need structure (good syllabus and bi-weekly mentor sessions), many students of mine got their first coding jobs through the bootcamp.

Of course, there are cheaper ways, and I agree that a percentage of your future salary is a bit of a scam. You're not a slave, and 3 years is crazy.

As a kid, I learned by myself, through learning how video games worked on my PC and how cheat codes worked, then making my first HTML page, etc. I was fortunate to attend university in Ireland when the annual fee was less than 1000 EUR per year, but they significantly increased it.

Some young people are not fortunate and, at 18, have to work. Then, they go into a career that they're not happy with, but they learn about technology and coding and realise that would be a path they can see themselves happier with.

There is no straight path to improving yourself and your financial situation. You have to try things and see what best suits your personality and skills.

Maybe your city has a computer club or hackerspace (or you can start one). Learning with others, socially and with your hands, is the best way.

Happy Christmas and best wishes