North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program > Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enroll in the program as an apprentice?

Please see becoming an apprentice.

Is there a deadline to apply?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Please keep in mind that you will need to find an apprenticeship position with one of our mentor farms before enrolling in NABDAP. Since most apprenticeship positions with our mentor farms begin in the spring, the best time to begin inquiring with farms is usually between late fall and mid winter. Please see our list of participating mentor farms for each farm's start date and application process.

Can I apply for the program if I am not a U.S. or Canadian citizen? 

The North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program is not an accredited school, and cannot assist applicants in obtaining student visas. Because of the time limitations on visitors’ visas, the program may be difficult to complete for international applicants.

Some international students have been successful in obtaining visas when they work through a university or other educational institution in their home country. You might contact educational institutions in your area to see if they can support you in coming to work or volunteer on farms in the US or Canada.

Another program that helps international students come to the United States to learn organic and biodynamic farming is Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture (MESA). MESA works with partners in a number of countries around the world. To find out more about MESA and whether they have a partner in your country, please visit their website at http://www.mesaprogram.org/.

How will I be able to cover my expenses and health care during the program? 

Most of the participating mentor farms offer a stipend to their apprentices. This is usually a small sum that is enough to cover the costs of food that the farm doesn’t provide, vehicle insurance, and at least a catastrophic health plan. Farms that don’t offer a stipend will provide you with meals, but you will have to rely on your savings to cover any outside expenses.

Is there any financial assistance available to help with tuition? 

If tuition for the classroom study program presents an economic hardship, apprentices may apply for financial assistance through the Biodynamic Scholarship Fund. Awards are limited to officially enrolled NABDAP apprentices with demonstrated financial need. If you are enrolled in NABDAP and would like to apply for a scholarship, please contact nabdap@biodynamics.com to request an application.

I already have experience on farms. Can I count my prior experience towards this certification? 

Yes, you may apply to put your previous on-farm experiences and coursework towards your certification. To request an application for partial credit or retroactive certification, please contact nabdap@biodynamics.com.

I would like to enroll in the program, but there aren’t any participating mentor farms in my region. 

We are continuing to grow the program and incorporate more mentor farms. If you would like to apprentice in a region where there are currently no participating mentor farms, contact the NABDAP Coordinator, Thea Maria Carlson at nabdap@biodynamics.com. She can help you to find possible mentor farms in your region.

Resources for Apprentices >