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How do I do an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship trains you in a skilled trade while you earn money working. Apprenticeships combine classroom and on-the-job training.
If you don’t already have several years of experience, you have to complete an apprenticeship to join one of Ontario’s compulsory skilled trades. You may also need to complete an apprenticeship to join a non-compulsory skilled trade.
If you’re already experienced in a trade, you should do a Trade Equivalency Assessment.
The process of preparing to training as an apprenticeship is different depending on your situation.
If you are not in high school or college
If you do not have experience in the trade you would like to work in, you can apply for training courses provided by different Ontario agencies. These training courses are all free of charge, including text books, safety equipment and tools.
After training you can do a pre-apprenticeship training that includes work placements.
Everyone is welcome to join this program, including people who have not completed high school or are new to Canada. To apply for this program search for pre-apprenticeship training near you or contact Employment Ontario.
If you are in High School
If you are in grade 11 or 12 you can earn co-op credits by joining work placements in certain trades under the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. Co-op credits count towards the credits you need to graduate high school. To qualify you must:
- be at least 16 years old;
- be a full-time student; and
- have earned at least 16 High School credits.
Contact your school board coordinator or guidance counsellor to learn more.
If you are in College
The Co-op Diploma Apprenticeship Program allows you to begin training for your apprenticeship while you are in college. Through this program, you can achieve a college degree and complete an apprenticeship in 2 years.
Search for colleges that offer the Co-op Diploma Program to see how you can qualify or contact Employment Ontario to learn more.
Financial Support and Grants for Apprentices
There are various government financial supports to help with things like:
- buying tools and supplies to perform your trade
- if you are studying full-time
- if you have a disability
Visit the Get Financial Support for an Apprenticeship page from the Government of Ontario or the Grants and Funding for Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship page from the Government of Canada to see what supports you qualify for.
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Last updated:
October 31, 2024
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