Is the electrian apprianticeship program full time school

[william-medrano5]

its a trade school program, in which my son is enrolled in a 5 year program, he works full time as an electrician , and 4 times a year he is in a classroom a week at a time.

[GeoffreyG]

Yes, you are absolutely correct.  Under the tax laws the term "school" doesn't necessarily always mean a purely academic program (like College or University).  Post high-school skilled trades programs, such as an electrical apprenticeship, involving work-study absolutely meet the definition as well.

So, in answer to any TurboTax questions that ask you such, you can (correctly) indicate that your son is "in school."

That said, depending on how his educational expenses are paid (fully by his employer, or out-of-pocket), he may be eligible for certain educational tax benefits.  Specifically, he could conceivably qualify for the Lifetime Learning Credit, or the Tuition & Fees deduction, which are available for those attending vocational or trade schools.  But he would not be eligible for the American Opportunity Credit, which is only available for those students studying for an academic (2-year or 4-year) degree.

Thank you for asking this.