High School Students

At Jacobs Medical Academy, we welcome motivated students who are ready to get a head start on their healthcare careers—even if they’re still in high school.

 

Students who are 17 years old and scheduled to graduate within the next 12 months (from high school, GED, or an approved equivalency program) are eligible to enroll in our nationally recognized Phlebotomy Training Program. This gives them a great opportunity to build skills, prepare for certification, and be job-ready by the time they graduate.

 

 

Can a 17-Year-Old Take the NHA Exam?

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Yes—but with a condition.

 

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) allows eligible students to take the national phlebotomy certification exam early under a special status called Provisional Certification.

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What is Provisional Certification?

 

 

Provisional Certification means a student can take the NHA exam up to 12 months before graduating, even if they don’t yet have their diploma. It allows them to test while the training is fresh in their mind. However:

 

• They must be 18 years old to hold a full, active certification.

• After graduation, students must submit proof of their high school diploma or GED to convert their provisional status to full certification.

• If they don’t convert it within 12 months, the provisional certificate expires and the student must retake the exam.

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Here’s what students can and cannot do with a Provisional Certification:

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What Students Can Do with a Provisional Certification:​​

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Take the NHA certification exam early

Students can take the exam up to 12 months before graduating.

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List the certification as “Provisional” on resumes or college/job applications

This shows initiative and that they’ve already passed a national exam.

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Apply for jobs that are willing to hire students pending full certification

Some employers may accept provisional status and allow students to begin training or work in a limited capacity, with the understanding that full certification will follow.

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Use the time after passing the exam to focus on completing school and preparing for employment

They’ll be one step ahead once they officially graduate and convert the certification.​​​​​

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What Students Cannot Do with a Provisional Certification:

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They cannot use it as a full/active certification to meet employment or state requirements

Until converted, it’s not recognized as valid proof of certification by most employers or licensing boards.

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They cannot legally perform certain phlebotomy duties in states that require active certification

State laws vary, and employers usually require full certification on file.

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They cannot renew or extend it if it expires

It’s valid for 12 months from the exam date. If the student doesn’t convert it within that time, they must retake the exam.

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How to Convert to Full Certification:

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To upgrade from Provisional to Full Certification, students must:

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Be at least 18 years old

Submit a copy of their high school diploma, GED, or equivalent

Provide any additional documents NHA requests (such as proof of training)​​​

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Bottom Line for Students & Parents:

A Provisional Certification is a great way to get ahead, but students must complete their high school education and convert it in time to use it professionally. At Jacobs Medical Academy, we help guide students through this entire process so they’re fully prepared and on track to succeed.

 

Why This Matters for Parents

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• This early certification path is perfect for career-ready high school seniors who want to work right after graduation.

• Students can finish training, take the exam, and be fully certified once they turn 18 and provide their diploma.

• We provide all the training, guidance, and preparation to ensure your child meets NHA requirements and understands what steps come next.

 

Additional Requirements:

 

 

• All students must create their own NHA account and register themselves for the exam (per NHA rules).

• A personal email address should be used—not a school email—so NHA can reach them after they graduate.

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If you have any questions about enrollment or eligibility, we’re happy to walk you through it. We believe in preparing students early for success in the healthcare field, and we’re here to support both students and families every step of the way.