Fire Training Academy Application Process
Students must complete all steps in the application process listed below to be considered for acceptance into the Fire Training Academy. We encourage you to complete steps simultaneously so that you can work through the entire process in a timely manner.
Email hedy.hemlick@tri‐c.edu to schedule a time to drop off all forms at the KeyBank Public Safety Training Center by the dates below:
- Dec. 23, 2026 - Spring 2027 Night Academy
- Jan. 29, 2027 - Spring 2027 Day Academy
Complete and submit the entire Fire Training Academy application to begin the application process. Online application not compatible with Internet Explorer.
Fire Training Academy students must also be current Tri-C students. Those who are new to Tri-C or who previously attended but aren't current students must apply for regular student admission/readmission and obtain Tri-C acceptance as part of the academy application process.
Current Tri-C students must be in good academic and financial standing with the College and must provide a valid S-Number to attend the academy. Call 216-987-4200 to check your student standing. Acceptance into the College is part of the application process and does not constitute acceptance into the Fire Training Academy.
Each applicant must take standardized math and English assessment tests, score at the college level and provide the academy with verification of test completion. Assessments cannot be taken until a Tri-C admissions application is submitted. This process is different from registration. Testing Center locations and hours.
Choose one of the following payment methods prior to the start of the academy.
- Self-pay: Payment plans set up before the first day of class.
- Financial aid and scholarships: Complete a FAFSA online or call 216-987-6000 to obtain a financial aid packet. *Tri-C school code: 003040; Program code: S505
Complete Pre-Screenings
Pre-entrance screenings can be conducted simultaneously or in any order. All screenings must be completed before starting the Fire Training Academy.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of EMS will only accept physical examinations conducted by a physician (MD/DO), advanced practice nurses (APRN), or physician assistants (PA) licensed by the Ohio State Medical Board. Please complete the Fire Training Academy Medical Evaluation Form and take it with you to your examination. The medical professional will complete the bottom portion of the form. Physical examinations are only good for one year. Return completed, signed original forms to the Fire Training Academy office. Email/fax copies not accepted.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) requires a BCI background check. Background checks are conducted by Campus Police at the Western Campus. Please call 216-987-5326 to schedule an appointment. You will need to bring your driver's license or state ID, social security card, and payment to your appointment.
Fee: $25 (acceptable forms of payment include cash, check, and credit card)
Each applicant must successfully complete the firefighter physical agility test (PAT) within seven minutes or less for admittance into the Fire Training Academy. The PAT consists five tasks over a timed course.
Fee: $75 (due at the time of registration)
Applicants must have medical insurance to qualify to enroll in Academy. A copy of your medical insurance card must be submitted to the Fire Training Academy office. Attach document and send now.
If you do not currently have health insurance, you can purchase it through the federal marketplace at healtcare.gov, through a private exchange or directly from an insurer. Cuyahoga Community College doesn't endorse and specific method of insurance or insurer.
You must complete the FEMA courses for NIMS 100, 200 and 700 and email a copy of your test results to the Fire Training Academy office prior to the application deadline. Courses can be found on the FEMA website.
You must have a current CPR/BLS card to join the Fire Training Academy. A copy of your card needs to be emailed or turned in to the Fire Training Academy office before the application deadline. CPR/BLS cards must be valid at the state exam on the last day of the academy.
If you do not have a current CPR/BLS card, you must be enrolled in a CPR or First Aid course before the application deadline. Completion is a condition for enrollment in the academy.
Applicants must have a valid Ohio driver’s license with full driving privileges. A copy of your driver's license must be emailed to the Fire Training Academy office.
Complete the Assumption of Risk and Agreement to Hold Harmless Form. Email/fax copies not accepted.
You must make an appointment to turn in your complete application packet. Do not make an appointment until all requirements are completed, including passing the physical agility test. Appointments are scheduled Monday-Friday between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The following signed, original forms should be dropped off to the Fire Training Academy office (by appointment only). Email hedy.hemlick@tri-c.edu to schedule your drop-off.
- Copy of math and English assessment scores
- Completed, original Medical Evaluation Form (signed by medical professional)
- Original physical agility test certificate
- Copy of medical insurance card (if not previously emailed)
- Copy of NIMS 100, 200 and 700 test results (if not previously emailed)
- Copy of CPR/BLS card or proof of enrollment in a CPR/BLS course (if not previously emailed)
- Copy of valid driver's license with full driving privileges (if not previously emailed)
- Signed, original of Assumption of Risk and Agreement to Hold Harmless Form