This is a tricky situation and requires a very cautious approach. Here's a breakdown of the considerations and the most likely answer, along with how to proceed

Understanding the Restriction:
"NO FMC unless for vibration-like transformer-ext, MC is strictly forbidden": This is a very specific and seemingly strict restriction. It indicates the school is concerned about: Cost

MC cable is more expensive than EMT.

Appearance

EMT can be installed very neatly and in a code-compliant manner that looks clean.

Security/Tamper Resistance

EMT is generally considered more secure and less prone to tampering.

Fire Safety

Certain MC cables can be fire-rated, but perhaps the school prefers the fire resistance of EMT.

Local Code Interpretation

Sometimes, local interpretations of the NEC (National Electrical Code) influence these decisions.

The Fixture Whip Question



"Fixture whip": A fixture whip is a short length of flexible conduit (often FMC or LFMC) pre-attached to a light fixture to allow for easy connection to the building's wiring system. The Key Question: Does the school's definition of "installation" include the fixture whips that are supplied with the lights. The school is likely trying to standardize on EMT and avoid the inherent flexibility and potential vulnerability of flexible conduit runs.

Likely Answer

Given the explicit and restrictive wording ("MC strictly forbidden"),

it's HIGHLY UNLIKELY that using a fixture whip, even if it comes pre-attached to the fixture, would be acceptable without PRIOR APPROVAL. The school's restriction is likely intended to cover the entire installed system, not just the runs between junction boxes.

Here's why



Intent

The school's intent seems to be to minimize the use of flexible conduits throughout the entire lighting system.

Precedence

If they allow factory-attached fixture whips, it opens the door to arguments for using FMC in other areas where a little flexibility would be convenient.

Enforcement

If the inspector or school representative finds MC/FMC anywhere other than specifically permitted (vibration, transformer disconnects), they will likely require it to be removed and replaced with EMT.

What You MUST DO


CLARIFY WITH THE SCHOOL (In Writing)

This is the most important step. Don't assume anything. Contact the project manager, engineer, or whoever is responsible for the project specifications. Ask SPECIFICALLY: "The specification states 'NO FMC unless for vibration-like transformer-ext, MC is strictly forbidden.' Does this restriction apply to the flexible conduit (e.g., FMC or LFMC) that is often pre-attached to light fixtures as a 'fixture whip'?" "If fixture whips are not permitted, what is the acceptable method for connecting the fixtures to the EMT conduit system? Should we hard-pipe directly to the fixture junction box? Should we use a specific type of flexible conduit adapter that is EMT compatible?" "If the whips are permitted, will the whip be terminated directly to the EMT Conduit with a fitting. (ex. Fex to rigid 90)"

Get this clarification in writing (email is fine). This protects you from potential disputes later.2. Review the Specifications CAREFULLY

Look for other clues. Are there diagrams, details, or sections that address fixture connections?3.

Consider Alternatives



Hard-Piping

Be prepared to hard-pipe (use EMT to the fixture's junction box) all of the fixtures. This will involve using appropriate connectors to terminate the EMT at the fixture's enclosure.

EMT Fixture Whips (If Allowed)

Some manufacturers make flexible EMT whips. These are not as flexible as FMC, but they offer some movement. If the school is adamant about EMT, this might be a compromise (but only if they explicitly approve it).

Conduit Bodies

You may need to use conduit bodies (e.g., LB, LL, LR) at the fixture location to make the bend from the EMT run to the fixture's connection point.

Important Considerations for Your Bid



Cost Impact

Hard-piping all the fixtures will increase your labor costs significantly. Account for this in your bid.

Material Costs

EMT fittings, conduit bodies, and any specialized connectors will add to your material costs.*

Risk

If you don't get clarification and bid assuming you can use fixture whips, you risk having to redo the work at your own expense.

Example Email to the Project Manager

Subject: Clarification Request: Lighting Fixture Connections - [Project Name]Dear [Project Manager Name],We are preparing a bid for the electrical work on the [Project Name] project, and we have a question regarding the specification for lighting fixture connections.The specification states, "NO FMC unless for vibration-like transformer-ext, MC is strictly forbidden." We would like to clarify whether this restriction applies to the flexible conduit (e.g., FMC or LFMC) that is often pre-attached to light fixtures as a "fixture whip."If fixture whips are not permitted, what is the acceptable method for connecting the fixtures to the EMT conduit system? Should we hard-pipe directly to the fixture junction box, or is there a specific type of flexible conduit adapter that you prefer?Thank you for your time and clarification. This will help us ensure that our bid accurately reflects the project requirements.Sincerely,[Your Name][Your Company]

In summary: Don't guess. Get it in writing from the school. Hard-piping with EMT is the safest assumption until you have that clarification. Flag for review