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Getting into trade school is straightforward when you know what to prepare. This guide provides a start‑to‑finish roadmap, timelines, templates, and program‑specific requirements so you can enroll with confidence.
Quick-Start Checklist
- Choose your trade and target start date.
- Confirm state licensing requirements for your trade.
- Pick 2–3 accredited programs to compare (see Accreditation & Approvals and the School Comparison Checklist).
- Gather documents (ID, diploma/GED, transcripts).
- Complete FAFSA if the school accepts federal aid.
- Apply to programs and schedule placement tests.
- Plan funding (grants, scholarships, payment plan).
- Register for orientation and purchase required gear.
Who This Is For
- High school seniors and recent grads
- Career switchers and working adults
- Veterans and service members
- GED and adult education students
- Parents seeking evening/weekend or hybrid schedules
What Schools Commonly Require
| Requirement | Why It’s Needed | Tips |
| High school diploma or GED | Basic eligibility for most programs | If missing, ask about GED prep options |
| Government-issued photo ID | Identity verification | Bring a valid driver’s license or passport |
| Transcripts (HS/college) | Placement and transfer credit | Request early; processing can take 1–2 weeks |
| Placement tests (math/reading) | Course placement | Ask if practice materials are available |
| Immunizations & TB test (health programs) | Clinical site clearance | Keep copies of all records |
| Background check (health/public safety) | Site and employer requirements | Disclose history honestly; ask about eligibility |
| Drug screen (some programs) | Clinical or employer requirement | Follow instructions exactly to avoid delays |
| Proof of residency | In‑state tuition eligibility | Utility bill or lease often works |
| Driver’s license & reliable transportation | Off‑site labs/clinicals | Confirm campus parking or transit options |
| Physical exam & CPR/First Aid (health) | Safety and patient care standards | Schools often host on‑campus sessions |
Requirements vary by state and trade. Always verify with your program and licensing board.
Master Admissions Timeline (T = Start Date)
- T‑90 to T‑60 days: Research programs, confirm state licensing rules, tour labs (use Campus Tour Questions), request transcripts, start FAFSA.
- T‑60 to T‑45: Submit applications, schedule placement tests, collect immunization records, begin background check if required.
- T‑45 to T‑30: Compare aid offers, apply for scholarships, set up payment plan, complete medical/tests.
- T‑30 to T‑14: Attend info session, confirm schedule (day/evening/weekend), plan transportation/childcare, order uniforms.
- T‑14 to T‑7: Orientation, finalize tool list (don’t overbuy), set up student email/LMS, complete safety modules.
- T‑7 to T‑0: Confirm first‑week schedule, bring ID and copies of all paperwork, map campus and parking.
Requirements by Program Type
Construction/Industrial (Electrical, HVAC, Welding, Carpentry)
- Photo ID, HS diploma/GED, transcripts
- Math placement (fractions, decimals, ratios, basic algebra)
- PPE clearance and safety orientation (OSHA 10/30 often encouraged)
- Physical ability to lift/carry and work on ladders (ask for accommodations if needed)
Automotive and Manufacturing (Auto Tech, CNC, Machining)
- Photo ID, HS diploma/GED, transcripts
- Reading/maths placement; mechanical aptitude helpful
- Shop safety briefing, PPE requirements
Healthcare (Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, PCT, Phlebotomy, EKG)
- Immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Hep B (series or waiver), Tdap; TB test; seasonal Flu
- Background check and drug screen for clinical sites
- BLS/CPR for Healthcare Providers (often offered on campus)
Office/Administrative (Medical Billing & Coding, Office Technology)
- Reading and keyboarding assessment
- Online access and proctoring setup for remote exams
Placement Tests: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Typical topics (varies by school):
- Math: whole numbers, fractions/decimals, ratios, unit conversions, basic algebra, percent error (see Trade Math Study Guide)
- Reading: main idea, inference, vocabulary in context, technical passages
Prep strategy (7–10 hours total):
- Review a trade‑math refresher and do 30 practice problems daily for a week.
- Read one technical article per day (HVAC cycle, electrical safety, blueprint basics) and summarize the main points (see Lab Hours & Equipment).
- Ask admissions for sample questions or a practice test—many schools provide them.
Healthcare Compliance Checklist (If Applicable)
- Immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Hep B (3‑shot series or waiver), Tdap within 10 years
- TB screening: 1‑ or 2‑step test or IGRA per site policy
- Annual flu shot (in season) and any site‑specific requirements
- BLS/CPR card, background check, drug screen, physical exam
- Keep digital copies and bring originals to clinical orientation
Background Checks and Drug Screens
- Use the exact vendor and instructions provided by your school; mismatched tests can delay placement.
- Disclose past history honestly—eligibility varies by site and state. Schools can advise on options.
- For drug screens, follow pre‑test guidance precisely (location, timing, ID, hydration).
Financial Aid Steps
Questions to Ask Admissions
- How many lab/shop hours per week? What equipment is used?
- What certifications/licenses does this program prepare me for?
- What are recent job placement and licensure pass rates?
- Are evening or weekend schedules available? Hybrid options?
- What is the total cost (tuition, fees, tools, exams, uniforms)? (use the Cost of Attendance Worksheet)
- Do you offer payment plans or employer partnerships?
Orientation Day Checklist
- Government‑issued ID and student ID/temp pass
- Printed schedule and campus map; parking/transport plan
- Copies of transcripts, immunizations, background/drug results (if required)
- Notebook, pen, and a phone or laptop for account setup
- PPE if requested (safety glasses, closed‑toe/steel‑toe boots)
Accessibility and Accommodations
- Contact disability services early for exam accommodations, adaptive tools, or schedule adjustments.
- Ask labs about alternative demonstrations if you have temporary physical restrictions.
After You’re Accepted
- Reserve your seat and confirm start date and schedule.
- Register for orientation and safety training (OSHA 10/30 if required).
- Create student accounts (email, LMS, financial aid portal).
- Review the tool list; buy only what the school requires.
- Set up transportation and childcare if needed.
If You’re Also Pursuing Apprenticeship
- Ask whether classroom hours count toward related instruction requirements.
- Request help contacting local sponsors and preparing your resume.
- Keep a signed logbook of hours and tasks from day one.
Templates You Can Copy
Transcript Request (Email) Subject: Transcript Request – [Your Name], DOB [MM/DD/YYYY] Body: Hello [Registrar], I’m applying to [School/Program] and need my official transcript sent to [address/email per school instructions]. Please let me know the fee and process. Thank you.
Recommendation Request (Email) Subject: Recommendation for Trade School Application – [Your Name] Body: Hello [Name], I’m applying to [Program] at [School]. Would you be willing to write a brief recommendation focusing on my reliability, problem‑solving, and hands‑on skills? Deadline: [date]. I can share my resume and goals. Thank you.
Aid Appeal (Email) Subject: Financial Aid Reconsideration – [Your Name], [Program] Body: Hello [Financial Aid Office], after reviewing my award, I still face a gap due to [reason]. I’m committed to attending and have applied for scholarships. Are there additional grants, work‑study, or emergency funds I might qualify for? Thank you for your consideration.
Working Adults and Career Switchers
- Choose evening/weekend or hybrid cohorts; ask about make‑up labs.
- Plan a weekly routine: class/lab blocks, commute, study, family time.
- Use employer tuition assistance or negotiate flexible hours during training.
Next Steps
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