Trade path checklist

For students comparing a classroom trade program and a registered apprenticeship. Bring this to a counseling appointment.

1. Write down the goal. Certificate, license, job offer, or registered apprenticeship? Be specific about the trade.
2. List local options. School programs you know, plus sponsors on registeredtradeschools.com/apprenticeships/ and apprenticeship.gov.
3. Ask about pay while training. Apprenticeships pay wages; most certificate programs do not.
4. Get total cost in writing. Tuition, tools, fees, exams. Ask what aid or progressive wages apply.
5. Check registration / approval. Sponsors: apprenticeship.gov. Schools: state approval and the school catalog.
6. Talk to someone who finished recently. What surprised them? Would they choose the same path?
7. Confirm the license path for your state (electrician, plumber, CDL, cosmetology, HVAC EPA 608, etc.).
8. Do not sign under pressure. Sleep on enrollment agreements. Problems later? Use the school’s complaint process and state consumer resources.

More: registeredtradeschools.com/guides/trade-school-vs-apprenticeship/ · apprenticeship.gov · CareerOneStop