Math Prerequisite Disclosure

Math is a core part of success in the IEC apprenticeship program and plays an important role in everyday work in the electrical field. From measurements and layout to fractions, ratios, and problem-solving on the jobsite, strong math skills help apprentices work more accurately, efficiently, and, above all, safely. Building a strong foundation in these skills is what sets apprentices up for lasting success and ultimately becoming a journeyman in the trade.

Math Documentation

IEC Education of Utah requires proof of math competency before enrolling in the 1A course. This can be demonstrated in the following ways:

College transcript showing a passing grade in a math course
Equivalent Placement Test from a college or university
College or university diploma or transcripts
ACT score of 19+ on the math section (alt. ACT WorkKeys score of 4+)
IEC of Utah online math assessment

NOTE-All records can be sent to info@iecofutah.com

Online Math Assessment

IEC Education offers an online math assessment FOR $15. Upon payment, you will receive a link to the 45-question exam. Receiving a score of at least 34/45 indicates 75% competency, which is typically sufficient for success in IEC’s 4-year program. Students who miss more than 11 questions are encouraged to seek additional resources and support to help them succeed throughout the program. Students who miss more than 20 questions are strongly encouraged to complete a basic math course through a local educational institution before enrolling in the IEC of Utah Apprenticeship Program.

NOTE: While IEC instructors are committed to supporting student success, they are not available to function as personal math tutors or provide ongoing individualized remediation. It is highly recommended that students who find themselves struggling with math during the semester seek additional resources and support to help complete assignments.

Assessment Topics

The assessment evaluates math competency in the following key areas, which are important for electricians to have a working knowledge of:

Whole Numbers: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division
Decimal Numbers: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division
Fraction Numbers: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division
Ratio/Proportion and Percentages
Measurement: Reading a tape measure and other practical measurements
Conversions: Converting between feet and yards, and metric system conversions
Statistics: Reading and constructing graphs
Pre-Algebra: Exponents, non-linear numbers
Basic Algebra: Solving for x, substituting values into equations, creating equations from word problems
Practical Plane Geometry: Finding area of rectangles, circles, and other shapes
Solid Figures: Finding volume of cubes, cylinders, and other shapes
Triangle Trigonometry: Right angle problems using the Pythagorean Theorem (a² + b² = c²)

This test is designed to assess basic skills in these areas, not to overwhelm you. A basic calculator is allowed, which should help with some arithmetic. The primary goal is to assess your ability to use a calculator effectively and to apply math to real-world problems.