Ah, but a record of training and an instructor's sign off IS required for an ATP type ride per 61.157(b). For upgrade you'd think all the student would need is a couple days GS for the oral and a couple sims of V1 cuts and emergencies but 142 schools have to operate per their syllabus, no train to proficiency. Most schools drag out upgrade 1. because they can and 2. because they have to train for the least competent student that shows up.