Education · 1 of 5

The path

No degree, no tuition. You are hired first and trained after.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Grade 10 is the floor for a few trades, but most want Grade 12. Technical trades want math and science.

2. 2

   Apply and get screened

   6 to 12 months

   Aptitude test, interview, medical, fitness check and a background and security screening. The whole process commonly takes 6 to 12 months.

3. 3

   Basic training

   About 3 months

   About 10 to 12 weeks at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Drill, weapons handling, fitness, field exercises.

4. 4

   Trade training

   2 months to 2 years

   Anywhere from a few weeks to two years depending on the trade. A cook is trained fast. An aviation systems technician is not.

5. 5

   First posting

   Ongoing

   You join a unit and keep training. Promotion to corporal comes with time served and courses passed.