Frequently asked questions
Everything about admissions, financing, housing, dogs, and what happens after graduation. Don’t see your question? Ask admissions directly.
Admissions
What are the admissions requirements?
Admission to AK9I is open to applicants who meet our professional standards:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A completed enrollment agreement
- An informal phone interview with admissions
- The physical ability to safely participate in daily training with working dogs
All applicants are evaluated individually against the standards of the working-dog profession, including the expectations of the employers, agencies, and certifying bodies our graduates work with. Reasonable accommodations for disabilities are available — contact admissions to discuss your needs.
How do I enroll?
- Complete the enrollment agreement and send it to admissions
- Submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED
- Submit your VA Certificate of Eligibility if using GI Bill® benefits
- Complete a short, informal phone interview
Start with the request-info form and admissions will walk you through each step.
When do classes start?
Classes begin the first Monday of each month (or the next business day if that Monday is a holiday). Students staying in campus housing arrive the Saturday or Sunday before class starts. Training runs Monday through Friday beginning at 0900.
Financing & Tuition
What financing options are available?
- GI Bill®: AK9I is approved by Virginia’s State Approving Agency for VA education benefits on approved programs
- DOD SkillBridge: transitioning service members may attend through SkillBridge on approved programs
- Self-pay: contact admissions for tuition schedules and payment arrangements
A $100 non-refundable administrative fee applies to each course.
Is equipment included in tuition?
Yes. All required training equipment is supplied by AK9I. Outside or unauthorized equipment isn’t permitted on the training field, so there’s nothing extra to buy.
Housing & Campus Life
Is housing provided?
Yes. On-campus dorm housing is available for $70/week ($10/day). Living off campus is also an option. Dorms include a common area with TV and Wi-Fi, a full kitchen (stove, microwave, refrigerator, pantry), and free laundry. Bring your own bedding, pillows, towels, and detergent — there is no cafeteria, and restaurants and groceries are about 15 minutes away in Franklin or Windsor.
Do I need my own transportation?
Yes. Students are responsible for their own transportation, including to and from the airport and the kennels (about 10 miles from the dorms).
What should I wear to training?
Closed-toe shoes, pants or shorts, and a shirt appropriate for physical work. For safety around working dogs, jewelry, facial piercings, and revealing clothing aren’t permitted on the training field.
Dogs & Training
How does dog selection work?
It depends on your program:
- 5-Week Detection: bring your own dog (subject to vetting) or select one from AK9I
- 6-Week High-Threat / LE: your dog is fully trained before you arrive
- 8- and 12-week programs: you develop a dog through the course
AK9I typically works with German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Labrador Retrievers. Specific breed requests can’t be guaranteed. Bringing your own dog does not reduce tuition.
Do I keep my dog after graduation?
Yes. Graduates who successfully complete a qualifying program keep the dog they trained with at no additional cost. You leave with a certified skill set and a working partner.
What does a typical training day look like?
Training runs Monday through Friday starting at 0900, with hours adjusted for temperature and the day’s training plan. A typical day includes kennel care, odor work, obedience, agility, tracking, and scenario work depending on your program.
Certification & Careers
What certification do I receive?
Graduates receive certification meeting DOD, NAPWADA, and NNDA standards. Whether a given employer or state requires additional credentials varies — admissions can walk you through the requirements for the career path you’re targeting.
What career pathways do graduates pursue?
- Explosive, narcotics, and firearms detection teams
- TSA-regulated 3PK9 screening (8-week program)
- High-threat and executive security
- Law enforcement K9 units
- Professional detection-dog training and kennel operations
What can I expect to earn as a K9 trainer?
New K9 trainers start at an average of $50,000–$70,000 a year, and experienced trainers and handlers in specialized fields like explosives detection and high-threat security can earn significantly more. Actual pay varies by employer, region, and specialty — AK9I does not guarantee employment or income upon graduation.
Does AK9I help with job placement?
Yes. Every program includes career development support: resume and interview coaching, guidance on starting your own LLC, access to the alumni network, and contacts at partner companies that hire detection teams. AK9I does not guarantee employment or income upon graduation — but we make sure you graduate with a plan.