Most programs take from three to five years to complete.
Upon completion, the apprentice is awarded a certificate of completion from SVC and the Virginia Apprentice Council that entitles the apprentice all rights and privileges as specified by the particular craft or trade governing body or licensing agency. A certificate of completion for an apprenticeship program allows the individual to sit for a licensing or journeyman test if required by a trade, craft, or licensing agency. Sponsors and previously enrolled apprentices will receive pre-registration material by mail. The Fall semester begins about the middle of September and the Spring semester begins the last week in January or the first week in February. If there is insufficient enrollment to offer a class, it will be canceled and rescheduled at a later semester.