UTI Entrance Requirements: What To Know Before Applying
Education documents
To apply, you’ll need one of the following:
- A state-recognized high school diploma, shown through a transcript
- A GED certificate or state-approved equivalent, shown through official transcripts
- A college transcript showing:
- An associate degree or higher, or
- At least 60 semester (or 72 quarter) credits.
- Home school completion, with documents that meet your state’s rules
Important notes:- UTI requires transcripts. Diploma copies are not accepted.
- Documents are reviewed for validity.
- UTI may request more information if needed.
Education verification
Certificates of completion and special education diplomas: Students who have a certificate of high school completion or a special education diploma that did not meet all state standards-based requirements (i.e., completed all courses but did not pass testing) must provide a copy of a state-issued GED or state-authorized equivalent exam prior to starting class.
Foreign education: If you completed school outside the U.S., your documents may require a third-party evaluation (at your expense) before acceptance.
English language proficiency
All instruction at UTI is in English. Prospective students can show English language proficiency through one of the following:
- Graduation from a U.S. high school
- Graduation from a high school in a country where English is the primary language or where English as a secondary language is mandatory.
- A U.S. GED certificate or equivalent.
If documents aren't available, proficiency is determined during the admissions interview process.
Note:
- UTI does not offer English language proficiency testing or English language learning services.
- A TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) may be required if fluency is unclear.
Program-specific requirements
Cummins Engines & Cummins Power Generation programs
These advanced programs have eligibility requirements beyond standard admissions. To be considered, you must:- Be a UTI graduate or current UTI student with 10 or fewer courses remaining.
- Have a valid motor vehicle record (MVR).
- Have no current DUI-related convictions.
- Complete a personal interview with a student development advisor (only after eligibility is confirmed).
Important to know:- If spots are limited, applicants are selected based on GPA, attendance and interview results.
Manufacturer-paid specialized training programs have added requirements set by the manufacturer, which may include11:- U.S. citizenship or an eligible visa.
- A satisfactory GPA and attendance.
- A satisfactory interview with an advanced training manager.
- Drug testing, driving record or relocation readiness.
- No felony convictions.
- A commitment to work for the dealer for a fixed period of time.
Important to know:- These programs are not accredited by UTI.
- Seats are limited and vary by location.
Students not enrolling in a full program
If you’re not enrolling in a full program, you’re considered a non-matriculating student which means:
- Proof of high school completion is not required.
- Federal financial aid is not available.
If you later enroll in a full program, all admissions requirements apply.
Enrollment agreement
You may receive conditional acceptance while documents are reviewed. Your enrollment is official once:
- All requirements are met and verified.
- Your Enrollment Agreement is reviewed and approved.
The agreement also includes a binding arbitration clause, which means:- Any disputes are handled outside of court.
- Certain legal rights are waived.
See the catalog for more information on the binding arbitration clause.If you have questions, Student Services can help explain the next steps.


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Enroll NowWhat Happens After You're Accepted?
Help With Financial Aid
Our team will help you understand your payment options, including financial aid you may qualify for so you can prepare with confidence.10
Gear Up at Orientation
Orientation helps you get fully prepared before your first day. You’ll learn what to expect, meet classmates, get your uniforms and parking pass, and clear up any remaining questions.
Start Training
This is where it all begins. You’ll step into the lab, meet your instructors and start training for a career.1


Tuition
We'll help estimate your cost of attendance before you enroll, so you can plan with confidence.
Cost transparency
Fully understand your investment before enrolling.
Program-based pricing
Cost varies by program and location.
What’s included
Uniforms, training tools, tutoring, career support, refresher courses.1
Additional costs
We’ll help you estimate other expenses like housing and transportation.
Planning support
An Admissions Representative can help you pick a start date that gives you time to prepare.
Financial Aid
We’ll help you explore what you may qualify for as part of the admissions process.10
Federal loans
Borrowed funds that can be repaid later to cover tuition now.
Scholarships & grants
Need or merit-based awards you don’t pay back.10
Military benefits
Veterans may be able to use VA education benefits like the GI Bill®.20,21
Tuition reimbursement
Employer incentives like loan help or sign-on bonuses.14
Payment plans
Break tuition into more manageable payments over time.
Testimonials
See how hands-on automotive training helped these UTI grads prepare for the careers they have now.18
Hear From More GradsThe support to succeed
Makenna Enga built the courage to step outside her comfort zone and pursue a career she’s proud of. Hear how UTI helped champion her journey.

Confidence for a career
With support from UTI’s instructors, financial aid and Career Services team, Aaron Hernandez built confidence that goes beyond the classroom.
Is Trade School Worth It?
UTI graduates think so. Hear directly from students who’ve been there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, your high school can send your transcripts directly to UTI. Once you apply, you’ll be assigned an Admissions Rep who can guide you through this process step-by-step.
Students who left UTI in good standing may be eligible to reapply. Student Services will help guide you through the re-enrollment process. Depending on your situation, you may be placed on a probation period or need to retake certain courses. Tuition and financial aid eligibility can also vary based on how long you’ve been out and your prior status.10
Connecting with Student Services is the best first step. Find the number to your campus’ Student Services department on the Contact Us Page.
Yes, UTI participates in federal financial aid programs, and completing the FAFSA is the first step to see what aid you may qualify for. Financial aid can include grants, loans and other options if eligible.10
You can explore detailed information about each program on UTI’s Program Page. If you’d like help comparing options, request more information. When you do, an Admissions Rep will contact you to walk you through programs that match your interests. Campus tours and virtual tours are also a great way to learn more about specific programs.
UTI focuses on your motivation and readiness to train, not your academic history. There are no entrance exams or GPA requirements. As long as you meet admissions requirements and submit the needed documents, the process is straightforward.
Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once it’s submitted, UTI’s Financial Aid team will review your information and explain your options.10 Visit the Financial Aid page for step-by-step instructions on how to apply or call 844-338-0032.
More Resources
Other Things to Consider
International Students
Learn how admissions works if you completed school outside the U.S.
Learn MoreGED Assistance
Find resources that can help you earn your GED certificate and take the next step.
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