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Non-Discrimination Admissions Policy
 

LAVI will admit qualified students who are able to demonstrate significant potential and promise of completing the program. This can be demonstrated with prior academic performance and professional experience. LAVI exercises an open admissions policy. That is, all students who apply and meet the admissions criteria will be admitted into the program.

LAVI welcomes all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, gender or in any other way in its policies, practices, or procedures involving applicants, learners, faculty, staff and the public.

Admissions Requirements
 

For all LAVI programs , the following minimum admission requirements apply. Please review the course description for additional admission requirements that may be mandated for specific programs as in accordance with California law and regulations.

Age. Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrollment. Proof of age may be required through a valid government-issued identification. This requirement ensures that students are legally eligible to enroll in vocational training programs and to participate in any associated clinical or externship experiences, where applicable.

Education. 
  • High School Diploma. High School Diploma must be earned from an accredited institution or recognized educational authority. 
  • General Educational Development (GED). Applicants who hold a GED must submit GED test score results and/or their GED diploma. The GED must be approved by a State Department of Education to be considered. Note that GED Tests cannot be taken online and can only be taken at an official testing center.
  • Foreign Educated. Academic documents from a foreign country must request a foreign credential evaluation (FCE) from the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) . 
Note. LAVI may require verification of authenticity or evaluation of foreign credentials to ensure compliance with applicable state and regulatory requirements. In all cases, LAVI retains the sole discretion to determine whether the secondary training completed by the applicant is sufficient to satisfy the high school graduation admission requirement.

Ability-to-Benefit. Demonstrate the ability to benefit from the training program they wish to pursue. This may include providing evidence of sufficient academic preparedness, relevant skills, or prior experience that supports successful participation in the program. The evaluation can be based on previous education, standardized test scores, interviews, or assessments conducted by LAVI staff. This requirement ensures that students are positioned to fully engage with the curriculum, comprehend instructional content, and successfully complete both theoretical and practical components of their chosen program.

Must receive the CASAS ASSESSMENT, a standardized test used to determine if the applicant is able to benefit from the program. If the assessment suggests an ability to benefit, the scores are used to place the applicant into the appropriate course. Previous education and training will also be reviewed.
Should have completed (or be very near completion) of an educational program meeting all California requirements prior to taking the course.
  • Must be a high school graduate or possess a high school equivalency certificate and must show the ability to benefit (entrance exam).
  • Must have a social security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
  • To be licensed with the California Board of Pharmacy applicants must pass a fingerprinting and criminal background check. The State of California may deny licensing if applicants have a felony conviction.
  • Must attach two current, signed, letters of recommendation from persons familiar with applicant’s education, interpersonal communication skills, personal ethics and/or work experience. The letters must include contact information for the reference. Must also include a resume, copy of driver’s license, and a letter of intent, and high school graduation or equivalency documentation.
FCE must be sent directly to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Laboratory Field Services (LFS) to determine if education is equivalent to a U.S. college or university education.

Credit for Previous Education. LAVI has not entered into an articulation or transfer agreement with any other college or university. However, LAVI will consider a written request for previous education credit with official transcripts. Previous training at a state-approved school will be considered with respect to the respective program upon demonstration of proficiency, appropriate credit (not to exceed 50% of course hours offered) will be determined jointly by the administrator and instructors. Courses taken within the previous two years are considered for transfer.

Admissions Procedure
 

1. Orientation

Applicants are required to attend a mandatory orientation session prior to the start of their program. The orientation is designed to familiarize students with institutional policies, academic expectations, program requirements, and available student support services. It also provides important information regarding attendance, grading, safety procedures, and any clinical or externship components, ensuring that students are fully prepared for a successful start to their training.

2. Interview

Participate in a personal interview with a staff member. This interview provides an opportunity to discuss the applicant’s educational background, career goals, and program interests. The coordinator will also review program requirements, expectations, and policies, answer questions, and assess the applicant’s readiness and commitment to successfully complete the chosen program. This step ensures that each student receives personalized guidance and support from the outset of their educational journey at LAVI.

3. Tour

Participate in a tour of the LAVI campus to become familiar with its facilities, classrooms, laboratories, and student resources. During the tour, staff will provide a detailed explanation of the school’s policies, procedures, and expectations, including academic standards, attendance requirements, student conduct, and support services. This session also covers important information about program structure, enrollment steps, safety protocols, and available resources to ensure students are fully informed and prepared to succeed. The campus tour and informational session offer an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of what to expect as a student at LAVI.

4. Apply

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply to the program that aligns with their career goals and personal interests. Selecting a program of interest ensures that students are fully engaged, motivated, and prepared to dedicate the necessary time and effort to succeed. During the application process, prospective students are guided through program requirements, course structures, and any prerequisites or regulatory obligations specific to the chosen field. Applying to a program of interest also allows applicants to receive personalized support and guidance from LAVI staff, helping them make informed decisions and plan a clear pathway toward achieving their educational and professional objectives.

Admissions Application
 

Applicants who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or undocumented individuals should complete and submit the Local application.

LAVI is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to enroll M-1 students. Applicants seeking M-1 status are required to complete and submit the M-1 application.

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