The GATE Program

The GATE Program at MTC – Coming in August 2026

Established under Florida Statute 1004.933, the GATE Program (Graduation Alternative To Traditional Education) at Manatee Technical College (MTC) offers a powerful opportunity for students aged 16 to 21 who have left high school to get back on track. This innovative program allows students to earn a standard high school diploma or its equivalent while simultaneously gaining career education credentials that prepare them for in-demand jobs.

Through MTC’s GATE program, students enroll in both a Career and Technical Certificate program and a GED Preparation program.

Student Enrollment Criteria

  • Have not earned a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma
  • Have been withdrawn from high school
  • Be a resident of the state as defined in s. 1009.21(1), F.S. for tuition purposes.
  • Be 16 to 21 years of age at the time of initial enrollment, and if 16 or 17 years of age, has withdrawn from school enrollment pursuant to the requirements and safeguards of s. 1003.21, F.S., which requires, for example, written parental permission and counseling to remain in school.
  • Must be enrolled concurrently in an adult secondary education program and career education program in the same academic term.
  • Possess an Educational Functional Level (EFL) 5 or 6 on Reading and/or Math on pre-test.

Important Documents:

GATE Program Information (PDF, 102 KB)

Download

GATE Program Enrollment Agreement (PDF, 720KB)

Download

GATE Flyer (PDF, 372KB)

Download

GATE Enrollment Application (PDF, 215KB)

Download

Eligible Programs:

  • Accounting Operations
  • Advanced Manufacturing and Production
  • Technology
  • Applied Cybersecurity
  • Automotive Collision Technology
  • Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Barbering
  • Building Construction Technologies
  • Child Care Center Operations
  • Computer-Aided Drawing and Modeling
  • CNC Production Specialist
  • Computer Systems & Information Technology
  • Cosmetology
  • Diesel Systems Technician 1
  • Digital Design
  • Digital Photography Technology
  • Digital Video Technology
  • Electrical and Instrumentation Technology 1
  • Electricity
  • Facials Specialty
  • Fundamental Food Service Skills
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
  • Master Automotive Service Technology
  • Machining Technologies
  • Marine Service Technologies
  • Nails Specialty
  • Patient Care Technician (East Campus)
  • Welding Technology