> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.uplifter.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How do I set up an application-based program?

> Set a program to Application Required enrollment mode and see how it changes the builder.

<Note>
  **Must know**

  * Enrollment mode is set on the **Registration** step: **Open Enrollment** (automatic) or **Application Required**.
  * **Application Required** marks a program as approval-based — the mode is meant for competitive teams, invite-only clinics, or anything with limited spots you allocate by hand.
  * Choosing Application Required simplifies the builder: the **Requirements** and **Waitlist** steps are hidden for that program.
</Note>

Application-based enrollment is for programs where you want to approve who gets in rather than letting anyone register automatically. Setting the mode is a choice in the program builder on the **Registration** step.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the Registration step">
    In the program builder, go to the **Registration** step and find **Enrollment Mode**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose Application Required">
    Select **Application Required**. The builder streamlines to just the steps this mode needs.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Finish and save">
    Set the rest of the registration window as usual and save. Notice the **Requirements** and **Waitlist** steps drop out of the builder for this program.
  </Step>
</Steps>

To switch back, choose **Open Enrollment** on the same step — the hidden steps return and the program registers families automatically again.

**Related:** [How do I control when registration opens and closes?](/club/programs-classes/registration-open-close-window) · [How do I create a new program?](/club/programs-classes/create-a-program) · [How do I offer full-term, by-class, or drop-in signup?](/club/programs-classes/full-byclass-dropin-enrollment)