What is pre-apprenticeship training?
Ontario’s funded pre-apprenticeship program helps people build skills and experience for an apprenticeship. Colleges and community organizations deliver the training. Programs can run for up to 52 weeks, with an 8–12 week work placement, and may include safety, academic and introductory trade training.
Preparation and registration are different steps. If you already have a sponsor, read the Ontario apprenticeship route before assuming you need a preparation course.
Is pre-apprenticeship training free in Ontario?
Ontario says its funded pre-apprenticeship training has no cost to participants and covers textbooks, safety equipment and tools. This does not mean every course with “pre-apprenticeship” in its name is government-funded. Confirm the exact program and ask for a written list of covered costs before enrolling.
Programs serve different groups, so ask the provider which eligibility rules and documents apply to its current intake. You can get help finding and applying to a program through Employment Ontario.
Read Ontario’s official program overview
How to find a program near you
- Choose a trade and travel area. Write down the type of work you want to try and the locations you can reach for both training and placement.
- Ask for current referrals. Contact Employment Ontario and explain your trade interest, location and availability.
- Check the provider directly. Look for a dated application page or speak to admissions. A past program announcement is not proof of a current intake.
- Compare the full route. Ask what happens after the course, how placements are arranged and what help is offered with finding an apprenticeship sponsor.
Searching in Toronto or the GTA
Include your municipality when asking for referrals. Check where classes and placements actually take place, not just the organization’s main office. A Toronto program may require travel to a work site outside your neighbourhood. Ask about start times, transit access and any travel support before accepting a place.
Questions to compare two programs
| Ask about | What to write down |
|---|---|
| Trade and outcome | Trade name/code, training covered and the exact completion credential. |
| Current intake | Application deadline, start date, schedule and any waiting list. |
| Eligibility | Required documents and whether your education and circumstances meet the criteria. |
| Funding | Program funding, covered equipment, travel costs and any other expenses. |
| Placement | How it is arranged, location, hours, pay arrangements and what happens if a placement is unavailable. |
| Next step | Support with finding a sponsor and whether any training can be credited toward your chosen apprenticeship. |
What if you are still in high school?
The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is a separate route that lets eligible high-school students explore a trade through co-op. Ask your guidance counsellor about the current OYAP options at your school.
Does a course guarantee an apprenticeship?
Do not treat a placement, school offer or completion certificate as an apprenticeship offer. Ask who would sponsor your registered training and what further application steps remain. Keep any promise about employment or credit in writing so you can compare it with the provider’s terms.
Sources: Government of Ontario: pre-apprenticeship training, Skilled Trades Ontario: registration and preparation, and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. Intake dates and spaces must be confirmed with providers.