Apply to National Career Education — Start Your Career Training
Our admissions process is simple and supportive. Apply today to begin hands-on training at our Citrus Heights campus, explore all available career training programs, or review financial aid options for those who qualify before you apply. Graduates also receive ongoing support from our career services team.
Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for enrollment at National Career Education, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or a recognized high school graduation equivalent is required for admittance.
- Applicants must be at least 18 (or 17, with written parent or guardian approval, and must turn 18 before their expected NCE graduation date or before beginning any externships or clinicals, whichever comes first).
- Applicants must prove their academic readiness by achieving the required test score(s) for their intended program, as described in the Academic Readiness policy.
- Several programs have specific criminal background and drug screening requirements for admissions and/or in order to meet graduation requirements.
- Students enrolling in the Electrical Technician and Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning programs must provide evidence that they have a valid, current driver's license.
- Students applying to programs offering distance education classes will complete an Online Readiness Assessment and must attend an orientation for online students.
Enrollment Steps
Follow these simple steps to begin your career training journey.
Apply Now
Complete your application online. An admissions representative will contact you within 1-2 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does someone apply to National Career Education?
Prospective students can apply by calling (916) 969-4900 or submitting a contact form. NCE's admissions team meets individually with each applicant to review documents, discuss financial aid options, and confirm a start date.
What are NCE's admission requirements?
Applicants need a high school diploma or recognized equivalent and must demonstrate academic readiness by achieving the required test score(s) for their intended program. Applicants must be at least 18, or 17 with written parent or guardian approval and turn 18 before graduation or an externship/clinical, whichever comes first. Some programs have background or drug-screening requirements. Distance-education applicants complete an Online Readiness Assessment and online orientation. Electrician and HVAC applicants must also provide evidence of a valid, current driver's license. Review the catalog's Academic Readiness policy and confirm requirements for the intended program with admissions.
What documents are needed to enroll at NCE?
Required enrollment documents typically include proof of high school completion (diploma or GED), a government-issued ID, and any required financial aid paperwork. The admissions team provides a complete checklist during the admissions appointment.
When can students start at NCE?
National Career Education offers multiple start dates throughout the year. The admissions team confirms the next available start date for each program during the admissions appointment.
Does NCE require an entrance exam?
NCE does not require the SAT or ACT, but applicants must demonstrate academic readiness by achieving the required test score(s) for their intended program under NCE's Academic Readiness policy. Distance-education applicants also complete an Online Readiness Assessment and attend online orientation. The admissions team explains the testing and requirements that apply to the chosen program.
Does NCE accept transfer credits?
Transfer credit policies are reviewed by the admissions team on a case-by-case basis. Applicants who have completed prior coursework should bring transcripts to the admissions appointment for evaluation.
Have Questions?
Our admissions team is here to help you every step of the way.