What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships combine real work with training and study. Unlike college or university, you’ll apply what you learn directly on the job, gaining hands-on experience and skills.
As an apprentice you will:
- train for the workplace: gain skills directly relevant to your job.
- get hands-on experience: work on real tasks and projects.
- earn a salary with employee rights: receive pay and benefits like sick leave and holiday pay.
- spend at least 20% of your working hours training or studying: allocate a portion of your time to learning and development.
- complete ongoing assessments: regularly evaluate your progress and finish with an end-point assessment.
Apprenticeships take 1 to 6 years to complete, depending on:
- the type of apprenticeship
- the level you choose
- your previous experience
If you take a break from learning, it may take longer to finish.
Who can apply?
You can apply for an apprenticeship if you:
- are 16 or older
- are not in full-time education
- live in England
If you live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, look for apprenticeships in those regions.
Understanding Apprenticeship levels and qualifications
You might think that if you have A levels, you shouldn’t apply for a Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship because those levels are equivalent to GCSEs or A levels. However, it’s not about what qualifications you already have, what’s important is that you meet the minimum entry requirements for the apprenticeship.
The level simply gives you an idea of the skills and knowledge you'll gain, not what you need to have before you apply.
What matters is that the apprenticeship offers you the right training and experience for the career you want to pursue.
Apprenticeship levels
Apprenticeship levels range from level 2 through to level 7.
Level 2 (equal to GCSE)
No prior experience or specific skills are needed.
Example: Level 2 Metal Welding is suitable for beginners with no prior experience.
Level 3 (equal to A level)
Some qualifications or experience may be required.
Example: Level 3 Business Administration is ideal for those with basic office or retail experience.
Levels 4 to 5 (equal to Higher National Certificate/Diploma)
You’ll need relevant qualifications or experience for more complex tasks.
Example: Level 4 Lead Engineering Maintenance Technician requires prior knowledge of engineering maintenance.
Levels 6 to 7 (Degree and Master's level)
These apprenticeships can lead to a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Entry requirements vary but may include qualifications like A levels and skills in areas like communication, IT, or problem-solving.
Example: Level 6 Chartered Manager is for those with significant leadership or management experience.
Qualifications and extra support available
Some apprenticeships may also ask for specific qualifications, such as GCSEs in English and maths. If you don’t have these qualifications, extra training may be provided to help you meet the requirements. You can find more information about the English and maths requirements in apprenticeship standards at level 2 and above.
You may also have to meet academic requirements to apply for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Higher and Degree apprenticeship vacancy listing
We publish an annual listing of higher and degree apprenticeship vacancies. You can view and apply for current vacancies or express your interest.
Graduates and apprenticeships
Graduates can apply for apprenticeships to gain new skills in areas they haven’t studied before. You can apply as long as the apprenticeship provides different training from your degree. To check eligibility, contact training providers or visit the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Graduates can also explore career options through the Graduate Employment and Skills Guide from the Office for Students.
What will I earn?
Apprentices pay depends on:
- the apprenticeship you choose
- your employer
- your role
- your age
- the year of your apprenticeship
Apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for apprentices if they’re aged:
- 16 to 18
- 19 or older and in the first year of their apprenticeship
If you’re 19 or older and have completed the first year of an apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the National minimum wage or national living wage rate for your age.
Apprenticeships care leavers’ bursary
Apprentices aged 16 to 24 who are care leavers may be eligible for a £3,000 bursary. Learn more about the care leavers' bursary.