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If you live in North America, you are likely familiar with the idea of apprenticeships and foundation programs. These programs, which are regulated under some of the oldest organizations in the modern world, are intended to only allow the most capable and promising individuals enter their intended fields.
But entering a trade field requires even more pre-requisite preparedness than the apprenticeship. In fact, you can’t even get into an apprenticeship without passing a pre-apprenticeship exam. These exams are intended to assess the potential of individuals by observing both their general knowledge as well as their comprehension skills.
If you are trying to land an apprenticeship position or foundation program, continue reading for more info about pre-apprenticeship exams and how to properly prepare for them.
Which Occupations Require Apprenticeship?
There are dozens of occupations that are likely to require time as an apprentice or in a foundation program. From industrial trades to cosmetology, this is our list of the occupations most likely to require an apprenticeship:
- Electrician
- Elevator Technician
- Carpentry
- Plumbing
- Pipefitter
- Masonry
- Automotive Machinist
- Millwright
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Ironworker
- Sheet Metal
- Machinist
- Mechanic
- Boilermaker
- Painter
- Barber
- Hair Stylist
- Seamstress/ Tailor Automotive Service Technician
- Welding
Why Apprenticeships are Great for Companies and Employees
Apprenticeships may feel like they are only great for the companies that require them, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The ability to receive training through an apprenticeship or foundation program is great for job seekers as well.
Essentially, these programs take the place of traditional post-secondary schooling and degree acquisition. This means that you will learn everything you need for entry to your career through this program rather than through a college (though it is important to remember some trade schooling may be necessary).
This can prevent students from wasting tens of thousands of dollars if they decide to switch their career goals down the line. In fact, many apprenticeships and their prerequisite exams can be transferred to other fields (so long as they are technically similar).
If you are looking for a career opportunity and can’t afford college, or are worried about wasting money, learning a trade is a great option for you.
Common Mechanical Trade Apprenticeship Exams
Mechanical trades are some of the most likely career paths to require apprenticeships and their prerequisite exams. Here are a few of the most common tests a potential apprentice will need to pass:
IBEW Electrical Aptitude Test
This IBEW test is created and issued by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. It is broken into two testing areas – math and reading comprehension. The math section contains 33 questions and the tester has 46 minutes to complete the section. The reading section is slightly longer at 36 questions and 51 minutes.
Ramsay Mechanical Aptitude Test
Ramsay is one of a trio of tests created by the same company. This is the lower level of the three and considered the easiest to pass. It is short with only 36 questions for the entire test and a 20-minute time limit. The Ramsay test is considered one of the best for diversity thanks to their focus on common terminology and questions framed in ways that all socio-economic backgrounds can easily understand them.
Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude (WTMA)
Wiesen is a much more complex test than many other mechanical aptitude assessments. There will be questions covering topics like fluid dynamics, advanced physics, and more. That is why proper preparation with JobAssessmentHelp is so vital. There is a 30-minute time limit for the 60 test questions and the passing criteria varies for the specific trade in question.
Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test (BMCT)
The BMCT is one of the most popular mechanical comprehension tests for technical roles. This is thanks to their focus on scientific comprehension as well as the understanding of physics and mechanical dynamics. The test is 55 questions long and has a 25-minute time limit.
US Apprenticeship Tests vs. Canadian Apprenticeship Tests
The types of tests you will take prior to starting an apprenticeship will vary widely depending on your country of residence. U.S. test takers will find that the tests are far more varied, are governed by multiple organizations, and require a more general approach to studying and preparation. Another way they vary is in regard to format. U.S. tests may be given on paper, online from the test takers home, or on a computer in a secure testing facility.
Though the details of the test are less than uniform, the subject matter is a much more uniform aspect of the test. There are typically three sections to a US apprenticeship test, and they are almost always English/reading, math, and mechanical reasoning. With that in mind, it is important to utilize a preparation program that focuses on these subjects and any variation of questions that can fit within them. JobAssessmentHelp offers exactly that!
Canadian test takers will have a far easier time prepping for their exam. This isn’t because the subject matter is easier, but the approach to apprenticeship testing is very structured. There are fewer governing bodies creating these tests, which can make it much easier to determine which test you will be taking. Typically, the tests vary across provinces and territories, but the websites for the tests are transparent about which areas can accept certification from their test.
In Canada, the programs for trade entrance will be called either an apprenticeship or a foundation program. Either way, acceptance to these will require the passing of a skills or aptitude test that cover the following subjects:
- Scientific understanding and reasoning
- Mathematics
- English and reading comprehension
The questions within each section and how strongly they affect an overall grade will depend on the trade being entered. Some professions focus more on one subject than the next and tests may be offered in various tiers of difficulty. JobAssessmentHelp can help you determine how best to study for your specific trade.
Trade Apprenticeship Exams: FAQs
Do I need to have a college education to get an apprenticeship?
No! One of the most appealing aspects of trade careers and their apprenticeships is the lack of need for expensive college degrees.
Can I pass an apprenticeship exam if I did poorly in school?
Yes! Some trades may need more scientific and mathematical prowess than others, but typically this knowledge can be gained through proper studying even if you did poorly in school.
How do I know which test I am taking?
If you are in contact with a specific company, master tradesman, or recruiter, they should be able to get you this information. You may also look online for trade requirements in your state, province, or territory.
How do I prepare for my apprenticeship test?
Preparing for your apprenticeship test is as easy as utilizing the practice bundles on JobAssessmentHelp.
Trade Apprenticeship Exam Prep Through JobAssessmentHelp
Whether you are preparing for an apprenticeship in the United States or Canada, JobAssessmentHelp has the study packs and testing information you need to ace your exam the first time. We have curated unique practice tests, 1000’s of questions, and other study materials to help you start your career the right way. If you are ready to start taking your career seriously, check out the study materials on JobAssessmentHelp.com.