The Application Process
To apply for any of the electrical apprenticeship programs, you must first complete an application form. Your application will be evaluated to determine whether or not you meet the local program’s basic requirements. Minimum requirements for local JATCs may include any of the following:
- Minimum age requirement
- Show evidence of successful completion of one full year of high school algebra with a passing grade, or one post high school algebra course with a passing grade.
- Be at least a high school graduate, or have a GED, or in lieu of a high school diploma or GED, have a two-year Associate Degree or higher
- Provide an official transcript for high school and post high school education and training. If applicable, GED records must be submitted
Minimum requirements can be waived if you have been working in the electrical construction industry and meet specific work hour requirements (you must provide undisputable documentation of work hour experience).
If you meet the basic requirements, you will be scheduled to take the NJATC aptitude test battery — if required. The test battery consists of two tests. It will take approximately two and a half hours to complete. The number of items and the amount of time allotted for each test are shown on the following page.
| Name of Test | Number of Items | Number of Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra and Functions | 33 | 46 |
| Reading Comprehension | 36 | 51 |
You will take a short break between the Algebra and Functions Test and the Reading Comprehension Test.
Approximately two to four weeks after you take the test battery, your local JATC will receive the results. They will subsequently notify you concerning the disposition of your application. A full three (3) months (90 days) must elapse before you may retake the test. The six month rule remains in effect after each subsequent retake of the test.
PLEASE NOTE: WILLFUL ATTEMPTS TO VIOLATE THIS RULE MAY RESULT IN PERMANENT DISQUALIFICATION.
If you obtain a qualifying score on the test battery, you will be scheduled for an oral interview. You will be interviewed by a committee representing both NECA and the IBEW. Based on the interview, and a review of your qualifications, you will receive an overall ranking. Your name will be placed on an eligibility list for two (2) years. As new positions become available in the apprenticeship program, names will be taken off the respective eligibility list in order of the ranking score. If you are not selected to begin an apprenticeship during that two-year period, you will need to reapply if you are still interested.
Some apprenticeship programs have additional basic
requirements such as drug testing, a physical examination, security background check, or a valid driver’s license.
A Note to Those with Disabilities
We recognize and comply with our obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to not discriminate against qualified persons with disabilities.
If you are a person with a physical or mental impairment (including learning disabilities) that you believe may affect your ability to complete any aspect of the application process (including testing), and if you need an accommodation to ensure that the test battery accurately measures your skills and abilities, you must notify the AJATC/JATC before, or as soon as you are scheduled to take the NJATC aptitude test battery.
Accommodation requests given on the test day CANNOT be addressed that day. In most cases, you will need to provide:
- Documentation of your disability, and
- Documentation of the need for a particular accommodation.
- Your request will be considered promptly.
Questions and Answers
| If I do not score well on the tests, can I take them again? | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Yes, you may take the test battery again after a period of three (3) months (90 days) has elapsed from your most recent test date. | |||
| Are there any penalties for guessing on the tests? | |||
| No, there are no penalties for guessing. Your score will be based on the number of items you answer correctly. | |||
| Should I work as fast as lean when taking the tests? | |||
| Most applicants will find they have plenty of time to complete each of the tests without rushing. You should work steadily and carefully. Do not spend too much time on any one question. | |||
| Should I study to do better on the tests? | |||
| You should review the sample questions in this booklet. If you find that certain types of questions are difficult for you, you can review material that is similar to those questions. However, there is no need to memorize certain formulas or factual material in order to do well on the tests. Previous knowledge of electrical work is not required. | |||
| Will I receive a report of my score? | |||
| You will be informed whether or not you have received a qualifying score. Exact scores are not provided. | |||
| What if I become ill or have an emergency on the day of the test? | |||
| If you are unable to attend the test session for which you are scheduled, you should contact the local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee to see if you can take the tests at another time. Rescheduling is not guaranteed. | |||
| What should I bring on the day of the test? | |||
| Remember to bring a photo ID to the test session. Pencils and all other materials will be provided. You will not be able to use a calculator for the tests. | |||
| If I have to leave before I finish all of the tests, can I complete the tests another day? | |||
| No. If you do not complete all of the tests, your score will be based on the questions you do complete. The tests must be completed during your test session. You cannot finish the tests on another day. You will not be able to reschedule to take the tests again for a minimum of three (3) months (90 days). | |||
Reminders for Applicants
- For optimal test performance, get a good night’s rest and eat a nutritious meal prior to taking the tests
- Report to the test center early. It is a good idea to arrive at the test center at least 15 minutes before the scheduled testing time.
- On your scheduled test day, remember to bring a photo ID with you to the testing center. Your ID will be checked before you will be allowed to take the tests. No ID, No Test, No Exceptions!
- Do not bring a calculator. If you bring a watch with a built- in calculator, you will be asked to remove it during the test session.
- Plan on spending approximately 3 hours at the test center on your scheduled test day.
- Be sure to make arrangements for childcare ahead of time. Children will not be allowed at the test center.
- Do not attempt to retake the test battery for three (3) months (90 days) after your last test date. If you retest before the three (3) month (90 days) period has elapsed, your score will not be valid and you will not be allowed to retest for another three (3) months (90 days). Please take this warning seriously. This is YOUR responsibility.
- Make arrangements with the JATC before you report for testing if you will need special accommodations during the testing procedure.