Ha. Things are different all over, I guess.
Here, one petitions for the degrees (initiation). Ballot on petition for degrees based on character.
If granted, there's EA conferral, coaching, then reciting the EA catechism. He then petitions for advancement (no new form, just the Secretary asking if he wishes to advance). Ballot for advancement based on proficiency and character.
Repeat on FC.
After the MM, the brother must be voted (not balloted) upon for proficiency only - he is already a MM.