Since a fire academy is an institution of higher learning, applicants must have graduated from high school with a diploma or obtained a G.E.D.
Before beginning training, firefighter trainees must show proof of passing a physical exam given by a physician.
Most, if not all, firefighting academies and colleges with firefighter certification programs require participants to be in satisfactory physical fitness. Applicants are usually given a physical fitness test that mimics the physical demands of being a firefighter including: sit-ups, push-ups, a hose drag, a ladder carry, a sled drive and running. In addition, some schools require students to sign an affidavit stating they have not used tobacco products within one year of starting training. Applicants may also be required to pass a drug test.
Community colleges with firefighting academies may require students to pass academic placement tests as part of their admission procedures. They may also require certain courses to be completed before students are allowed to graduate.