Trade School Requirements: Ultimate Application Guide

Once a student graduates high school, they’re expected to make a decision about their future and what steps they might want to take toward a career–namely, whether they should attend a traditional two- or four-year college.

But that isn’t the right fit for every graduate.

If you relate to that scenario, consider trade schools! They’re another option for students to prepare for a career in a field they’re passionate about.

Interested? To get started, you should get familiar with general trade school requirements so you can know how to get into trade school and feel ready to take the next step. Keep reading to learn more!

Key Summary Points

• Trade schools can offer a unique opportunity to prepare for a career in a field you’re passionate about, allowing you to earn qualifications in less time than traditional four-year universities.
• Basic requirements for trade schools include having high school qualifications such as a diploma, GED diploma, state-authorized equivalency exam or completion of a recognized homeschooling program. Some schools also accept evidence of attending a Title IV-eligible program or completion of a postsecondary degree program.
• Placement tests are commonly required for admission into trade schools, but additional testing like SAT or ACT scores is generally not necessary. GPA requirements vary by school, with some programs not requiring a minimum GPA but may require it for scholarship eligibility.
• Additional prerequisites for trade school enrollment can include age requirements, with the minimum typically being 16, and some programs requiring applicants to be older.
• Costs can vary by campus, and many trade schools offer the same rates to in-state and out-of-state residents.
• The application process for trade schools includes multiple start dates throughout the year, rolling admissions and requires gathering necessary documents, paying a non-refundable application fee and possibly undergoing an interview to ensure you’re a good fit for the school.

Read: Empowering Success: Things You Should Know about UTI’s Student Coaching Program

Previous Trade School Education and Placement Exams

One of the basic requirements for trade school is having credentials for prior schooling—usually a high school diploma. Documents that are accepted apart from a high school diploma can include a state-issued GED diploma or state-authorized equivalency exam.    

Completion of an officially recognized homeschooling program is also accepted. Some trade schools, such as Universal Technical Institute (UTI), will also accept evidence of attending a Title IV-eligible program or successful completion of a degree program at a postsecondary level.

Apart from having some form of accepted education documentation, most schools will require students to take some sort of placement test before admission is granted. While these tests are used to help determine if a student is the right fit for the school, most trade schools do not require additional testing or certain scores on things like the SAT or ACT.    

Read: Why You Should Take Advantage of UTI’s Advanced Placement Opportunities

Trade School GPA Requirements

You might be wondering whether trade schools take a student’s GPA into consideration when they apply. This can vary depending on which school you’re applying to. Most of the time, GPA doesn’t matter as much as fulfilling other requirements when it comes to previous education or placement exams.

UTI does not require a minimum GPA to be accepted into a core program, but students may need a specific GPA to qualify for scholarships to help them pay for school.¹⁰ When it comes to Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs, requirements are set by the manufacturer and can vary from program to program.¹¹

Read: 5 Reasons to Enroll in Ignite 2024 – for incoming high school seniors!

How To Get into Trade School

Unlike traditional four-year universities, one of the major benefits of trade school is that they offer multiple start dates throughout the year, meaning rolling admissions. This allows you to start earning your degree when the time is right for you, instead of having to wait for a spring or fall semester to enroll.

So, after you’ve determined the soonest available enrollment date, here’s how to start trade school:

• Find your passion: Dive into your trade school options and discover what sort of hands-on career really inspires you. From training to work on cars to learning boat servicing skills, there’s a diverse range of career training options for you to choose from.
• Research your options: Look up different trade schools, their programs and the unique offerings that might catch your eye. Speaking with a school representative can also help you get all your questions answered. If you’re considering Universal Technical Institute for training, request information online or call us at 1-800-834-7308 to speak to one of our Admissions Representatives!
• Review admissions requirements: Check your prospective school’s specific prerequisites. Remember – some schools, like UTI, are flexible, and that means you might just fit the bill even if you don’t have a traditional high school diploma.
• Prepare your documents: Gather all necessary documentation, whether it’s your high school diploma, GED diploma or proof that you passed a required placement exam.
• Complete your application: Fill out your application, make sure you’ve submitted all the required materials and hit submit! If you submitted an app for UTI and it’s accepted, you can expect a call from an Admissions rep.
• Prepare for an interview (if needed): Sometimes, trade schools will ask to schedule an interview. If that’s the case, start practicing your pitch to show that you’re a good fit for the school.
• Get excited: Got accepted? Celebrate! You’re one step closer to embarking on your new career training journey. Maintain that enthusiasm throughout your training to make the most of your learning experience and become the skilled tradesperson employers need.
• Financial aid and scholarships: After you’ve enrolled, start looking into financial aid options, scholarships and grants well before school starts.¹⁰ Review all your trade school tuition funding options to help ease your training costs.

Read: Is Attending NASCAR Tech a Good Choice?

Additional Prerequisites for Getting Into Trade School

Along with certain educational requirements, many trade schools have a few other things they consider prerequisites for enrollment.

Age requirements for applying to a trade school can vary by state. Typically, the minimum age is 16, but depending on the program, applicants might have to be older. Many schools accepting students under the age of 18, including UTI, require a parent or legal guardian to sign an enrollment agreement.

You can attend a trade school in any state you choose, and many trade schools offer the same rates to both in-state and out-of-state residents. However, the costs can vary depending on what campus you’re attending.

Read: From Tinkering on Bikes to Getting Paid for Motorcycle Work

Trade School Requirements FAQs

1. What are the general requirements for enrolling in a trade school?

To enroll in a trade school like UTI, prospective students usually need to have completed high school or obtained a GED diploma. Many schools also have additional requirements, such as age requirements or specific documentation.

2. Can you explain how to start trade school?

Before you start applying for a trade school, it’s important to research and review your options—including the various programs and their requirements within a specific school. Then, after ensuring you have all the required materials, you fill out and submit an application, which may ask for proof of education.

After your application is in, you'll often have an interview with an admissions representative to ensure a mutual fit. Once accepted, you’ll finalize enrollment by paying any necessary fees and preparing for the start of your classes.

3. What kind of financial documentation is needed for trade school applications?

When applying for trade school, you may need to provide financial information related to any previous education, tax forms or income documentation to help determine eligibility for financial aid. Some institutions may also request proof of any scholarships or grants you’ve applied for. It's a good idea to have these documents ready to simplify your application process, especially for FAFSA.

4. How can I improve my chances of getting into a competitive trade program?

Make sure you meet all application requirements and submit your materials well ahead of the deadline. Showing proof of relevant experience or passion for the chosen field can also make your application stand out. Lastly, polishing your interview skills will help you make a positive and memorable impression during the admissions process.

5. Are there any physical or health requirements for enrolling in certain trade programs?

Some trade programs, especially those for hands-on training programs may have specific physical or health requirements. These can include passing a physical exam or providing proof of vaccinations appropriate for the industry. Always check with the individual school and program to understand the specific expectations for enrollment.

Read: Train So You Can Finish First: Training Manager David Akins

Meet Trade School Requirements & Take the Next Step Toward a Career!

Trade school can be a great choice to further your education if you know you want to learn a skilled trade. Now that you have the knowledge on trade school requirements and how to apply for enrollment, it’s time to find the right school so you can turn your hands-on career ambitions into industry skills used by today’s professionals.

With numerous training programs ranging from Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) to Wind Turbine Technician training, Universal Technical Institute can help prepare you for a career in the transportation, skilled trades or energy industries.¹

To learn more, you can visit our website, request information online or call us at 1-800-834-7308 to connect with an Admissions Representative today!

Our Trade School Campuses Across the Country

Universal Technical Institute

• Avondale, Arizona
• Long Beach, California
• Rancho Cucamonga, California
• Sacramento, California
• Miramar, Florida
• Orlando, Florida
• Lisle, Illinois
• Canton, Michigan
• Bloomfield, New Jersey
• Mooresville, North Carolina (NASCAR Technical Institute)
• Exton, Pennsylvania
• Austin, Texas
• Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas
• Houston, Texas

Marine Mechanics Institute

• Orlando, Florida

Motorcycle Mechanics Institute

• Phoenix, Arizona
• Orlando, Florida