The document reports the development of three pre-entry criterion--referenced tests (Skill Checks) designed to assess an applicant's verbal and numerical competencies and to assist in the implementation of remedial education where needed, in the vocational training areas of office occupations, automotive mechanics, and machine shop. A general matrix of competencies for the three training areas was established through analysis of course content in terms of reading level of material used, numerical skills needed, and student and instructor perceptions of skills necessary to complete a course successfully. These were developed into Skill Checks which underwent field testing, item analysis, measurement of validity, and evaluation in order to determine their usefulness as predictors of student success and need for remediation. A flow chart visually outlines test development procedure. Continuation of the project is planned with six new areas for test development and the co-operation of other institutions anticipated. It is felt that immediate identification of skill deficiencies and their remediation, through Skill Checks, will help students to complete their vocational programs successfully. A bibliography, a third party evaluation of the project, and the office occupations, automotive mechanics, and machine shop tests are appended. (LH)