FIRE 95 - BASIC FIRE ACADEMY

Upcoming Academies

Spring 2026 – Academy 65

🗓 Application Period: August 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025 (or until filled)

🚫 Status: Academy 65 is now full.

Fall 2026 – Academy 66

🗓 Application Period: February 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026 (or until filled)

⚠️ Applications submitted before the opening date will not be accepted and will be considered void.

🧾 How to Apply

Follow all steps below to apply for the Victor Valley College Fire Academy.

Step 1: Complete All Prerequisite Courses

You must complete all required courses before acceptance into the academy.

You may apply while completing prerequisites; however, you will be placed on a waitlist until proof of completion is submitted.

• The academy fills on a first-come, first-qualified basis.

• Spots cannot be held, but you are encouraged to apply if you are close to finishing prerequisites before the deadline.

• Applicants not on the waitlist before the closing date, or who apply after the deadline, will not be considered.

Step 2: Submit Your Academy Application

Do not apply through Self Service.

Complete the online application using the link below:

🔗 Basic Firefighter Academy Application

Step 3: Submit Proof of Completion

Email copies of your certifications or unofficial transcripts to:

📧 Fire.Technology@vvc.edu

Your application will remain incomplete until proof of completion is received.

If you completed prerequisites at VVC:

• Submit only your free unofficial transcripts from your MyVVC Self-Service Portal → Academics.

Your place in the academy is determined by the date your application and proof of prerequisites are both received.

Step 4: Attend Required Pre-Academy Events

All accepted students must attend the following events to qualify for academy participation:

Note: If you are unavailable for any pre-academy dates, you will need to defer to a future academy session.

💪 Physical Fitness Requirements

Students must meet the following minimum fitness standards:

• Run 1.5 miles in under 15 minutes

• Complete 60 sit-ups in 2 minutes

• Perform 35 push-ups in 2 minutes

• Perform 5 overhand pull-ups in 2 minutes

• Lift and carry 50 lbs. for 2 minutes
  
  OR successfully pass the BIDDLE Physical Ability Test

These standards represent the minimum level of fitness required to safely perform academy tasks and complete training successfully.

🎓 Certifications Earned

Upon successful completion, graduates will earn training and/or certifications in:

• Auto Extrication

• Firefighter Safety and Survival

• Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) Operations

• Fire Control 3A / 3B

• ICS-100, S-130, S-190, L-180 (NWCG)

• Hazardous Materials – WMD & Decontamination

• California Firefighter I

• BIDDLE Physical Ability Test (PAT) Certificate
  
  (Recognized by Los Angeles and Orange County Fire Chiefs)

👨‍🚒 Professional Standards

The Firefighter I Academy emphasizes excellence in both performance and professionalism.

All trainees are expected to maintain:

• Compliance with grooming and dress code standards

• Consistent professional conduct and discipline

• Effective teamwork and clear communication

• Self-confidence, composure, and the ability to follow instruction

💰 Cost & Payment Information

Total Program Cost: $3,447

(Approved by the VVC Board in December 2023)

This cost includes tuition, student materials, and required academy gear.

Costs are subject to change.

Payment Options

💳 Payment Plan

• Details are provided during the mandatory Orientation.

• Payment plans typically divide total costs into monthly installments.

• Enrollment in a payment plan must be completed before the academy start date.

🎓 Financial Aid & Assistance

While traditional financial aid may not cover all costs, students may be eligible for the following:

• California College Promise Grant (CCPG)
  
  Covers enrollment fees for qualifying California residents.
  
  Most students are eligible even if they do not qualify for Federal Financial Aid.

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
  
  Recommended for all students to determine eligibility for grants or aid.

• Scholarships
  
  Available through the VVC Foundation and external firefighter-related programs.

• GI Bill® / Veteran Benefits
  
  Accepted for qualified students. Contact the Veterans Resource Center for assistance.

• Third-Party Sponsorships
  
  Available through some fire departments or public agencies.

Full payment or enrollment in a payment plan is required before uniforms or equipment can be issued.

Begin financial planning early if purchasing gear through outside vendors or seeking aid processing.

📞 Contact Information

For questions or additional details, please contact:

Program Director:

📨 Jose Arredondo

📧 Jose.Arredondo@vvc.edu

Fire Technology Department:

📧 Fire.Technology@vvc.edu