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Thanks for writing but you perhaps should speak with a local Rabbi.

Let me speak for mainstream Rabbinical training, excluding the possibility of "private" ordination, phony "diploma mills," and a variety of marginal programs.

In mainstream Rabbinical programs, Orthodox through Reconstructionist, and even the newer post-denominational schools that are nonetheless truly mainstream with the highest academic standards:

1. There is some form of admission process that often includes testing, both psychological and subject competence

2. One has to complete a minimum of 4 years of college

3. The major differences between the institutions are the various emphases - Talmud, philosophy,Hebrew, history, Bible, etc. even though there are minimum requirements in each subject area plus a variety of practical Rabbinics, pastoral psychology, etc.

4. A minimum of 5-6 years and also one year in Israel, especially to develop a relationship with Israel and familiarity with Hebrew as a living language

5. Graduation or ordination is essentially the same kind of ceremony with various kinds of certification or diplomas. I chose to have all of my teachers sign my diploma, and while it took some time to receive, I am very glad as most are no longer living except in my heart and mind - and I miss them

6. Some Seminaries or yeshivot also require an internship to gain some practical experience

7. Some movements require a new graduate to start with a small congregation in order to learn all of the various elements of congregational or institutional life before moving up to a large congregation, UNLESS one takes an assistant position in a larger congregation which is much more narrow in function.

If you are interested in any particular movement or ordination, please write them for their details.