What are the entry requirements for apprenticeships?

Apprenticeship entry requirements depend on the employer, job and apprenticeship level.

There is no single set of grades that you need for every apprenticeship.

Some employers ask for GCSEs or other qualifications. Others focus more on your skills, interests, experience and attitude.

The entry requirements should be clearly listed in each apprenticeship vacancy. Always read them carefully before you apply.

What are the general apprenticeship entry requirements?

To start an apprenticeship in England, you must usually:

• be aged 16 or over
• live in England
• not be in full-time education when the apprenticeship starts

There is no upper age limit for most apprenticeships.

You can apply for an apprenticeship while you are still at school. However, you must have left full-time education before the job begins.

You can also start an apprenticeship if you:

• are beginning your first career
• want to change careers
• already have a job
• want to gain new skills in your current role
• already have qualifications, including a degree

Having a previous qualification does not always stop you from applying. However, the apprenticeship must help you gain new knowledge and skills.

Do you need GCSEs for an apprenticeship?

You do not always need GCSEs to start an apprenticeship.

Some employers may ask for GCSE English and maths. They may also ask for subjects linked to the job.

For example, an engineering employer may ask for maths or science. A childcare employer may ask for English.

Other employers may accept:

• Functional Skills qualifications
• a BTEC
• a T Level
• another vocational qualification
• relevant work experience
• skills gained through volunteering
• evidence that you are interested in the industry

The grades needed will be different for each vacancy.

Do not assume that you cannot apply because you do not have certain GCSEs. Read the full entry requirements or contact the employer or training provider for advice.

Do apprentices need English and maths?

English and maths may be included as part of your apprenticeship if you have not already gained the required qualifications.

The rules can depend on your age, apprenticeship level and programme.

For apprentices aged under 19 when their training starts, English and maths requirements may need to be completed before the apprenticeship can be passed.

For apprentices aged 19 or over when their training starts, the English and maths exit requirements may be optional. The employer and training provider will decide whether they should be included.

English or maths may still be required when they form an essential part of a qualification within the apprenticeship.

Your employer or training provider will explain what applies to you.

What are the entry requirements for a Foundation apprenticeship?

Foundation apprenticeships are Level 2 programmes designed to help young people take their first step into an industry.

They can be a good option if you have limited work experience or are not yet ready for a longer apprenticeship.

You do not usually need specific qualifications or previous experience to apply.

Foundation apprenticeships are normally open to people aged 16 to 21.

Some people aged 22 to 24 may also be able to apply. This can include people who:

• have an Education, Health and Care plan
• are care leavers
• are prisoners or prison leavers

People aged 25 or over cannot normally start a Foundation apprenticeship.

These age rules are different from those for other apprenticeships.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 2 apprenticeship?

A Level 2 apprenticeship is often called an Intermediate apprenticeship.

It is broadly at GCSE level.

Many Level 2 apprenticeships do not require previous qualifications or experience. This makes them a common starting point for people entering a new industry.

However, employers may still ask for:

• basic English and maths skills
• an interest in the job or industry
• good communication skills
• a positive attitude
• the ability to work in a team
• certain GCSE subjects or grades

Always check the individual vacancy because requirements can vary.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 3 apprenticeship?

A Level 3 apprenticeship is also known as an Advanced apprenticeship.

It is broadly at A-level difficulty.

Employers may ask for:

• GCSEs, often including English and maths
• a Level 2 apprenticeship
• a relevant vocational qualification
• previous work or volunteering experience
• an interest in the industry

Some Level 3 apprenticeships accept applicants without previous experience.

Others may have more detailed requirements because of the skills needed for the role.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 4 apprenticeship?

A Level 4 apprenticeship is a Higher apprenticeship.

It is at a similar level to qualifications such as a Certificate of Higher Education or Higher National Certificate.

Employers may ask for:

• A levels
• a T Level
• a BTEC or other Level 3 qualification
• a Level 3 apprenticeship
• relevant work experience
• existing knowledge of the industry

Some Level 4 apprenticeships are open to school or college leavers. Others are designed for people already working in the sector.

The requirements will depend on the job.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 5 apprenticeship?

Level 5 is also classed as a Higher apprenticeship.

It is at a similar level to a foundation degree, Higher National Diploma or Diploma of Higher Education.

Entry requirements may include:

• relevant Level 3 qualifications
• a Level 3 or Level 4 apprenticeship
• experience in a related role
• knowledge of the industry
• support from your current employer

Previous experience is common at this level, but it is not required for every programme.

Check the vacancy to find out what the employer accepts.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 6 apprenticeship?

A Level 6 apprenticeship is studied at the same level as a bachelor’s degree.

Some Level 6 programmes are Degree apprenticeships and include a full degree. Others are Higher apprenticeships studied at degree level but do not award a degree.

Employers often ask for Level 3 qualifications, such as:

• A levels
• a T Level
• a BTEC
• an Advanced apprenticeship
• another suitable Level 3 qualification

They may ask for certain subjects or grades.

Some employers also accept relevant work experience instead of traditional qualifications.

Degree apprenticeships can be competitive. Employers may look at your:

• application form
• CV
• personal statement
• online tests
• interview performance
• assessment centre results
• reasons for choosing the career

Always check whether the apprenticeship includes a degree before applying.

What are the entry requirements for a Level 7 apprenticeship?

A Level 7 apprenticeship is studied at master’s degree level.

Some Level 7 programmes include a master’s degree or professional qualification. Others do not.

Employers may ask for:

• a relevant bachelor’s degree
• a professional qualification
• a Level 6 apprenticeship
• experience in a related industry
• experience in a senior or specialist role

However, entry requirements vary.

A Level 7 apprenticeship will not always require a university degree. Some employers may accept applicants with strong professional experience.

The vacancy should explain the qualifications and experience needed.

Can you apply without the required grades?

You may still have options if you do not have all the grades listed.

First, check whether the grades are described as essential or preferred.

An essential requirement normally means you must meet it. A preferred requirement may give you an advantage, but you could still be considered without it.

You can also:

• ask the employer whether they accept other qualifications
• explain any relevant work or volunteering experience
• show skills gained through school, hobbies or personal projects
• consider a lower-level apprenticeship first
• complete an English, maths or vocational qualification
• ask the training provider for advice

Do not provide false grades or qualifications on an application.

Be honest and focus on the skills, experience and potential you can offer.

Do you need work experience for an apprenticeship?

You do not always need previous work experience.

Apprenticeships are designed to help people learn while working. Many employers expect applicants to be new to the occupation.

However, experience can support your application.

This could include:

• a part-time job
• work experience arranged through school
• volunteering
• caring responsibilities
• clubs and societies
• sports teams
• personal projects
• online courses
• helping in a family business

Think about the skills you gained rather than only the job title.

For example, a part-time retail role could show communication, teamwork, organisation and customer service skills.

Can graduates apply for apprenticeships?

Yes. Graduates can apply for apprenticeships.

Having a degree does not automatically make you ineligible.

However, the apprenticeship must give you new skills and training. It should not simply repeat learning that you have already completed.

A graduate may use an apprenticeship to:

• move into a new industry
• gain a professional qualification
• develop specialist knowledge
• retrain for a different career
• progress within an existing role

The employer and training provider will check your previous qualifications and experience before the apprenticeship starts.

How do employers choose apprentices?

Meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee that you will receive an offer.

Employers may receive many applications, especially for Higher and Degree apprenticeships.

They may consider:

• your qualifications
• your skills and experience
• your interest in the role
• your knowledge of the employer
• your application form
• your interview answers
• your performance in tests or assessments
• your attitude and willingness to learn

Research the employer and explain why the apprenticeship interests you.

Use examples from school, work, volunteering, hobbies or other activities to show your skills.

How can you check the entry requirements?

Before applying, read the full apprenticeship vacancy.

Look for:

• the apprenticeship level
• essential qualifications
• preferred qualifications
• required subjects and grades
• skills or experience
• age or licence requirements
• location and travel needs
• working hours
• training arrangements

Some roles may have extra legal or safety requirements.

For example, you may need:

• a driving licence
• a background check
• medical checks
• the right to work in the UK
• permission to work with children or vulnerable adults

These requirements should be explained in the vacancy.

Find an apprenticeship that suits you

Apprenticeship entry requirements vary, so do not rule yourself out before reading the vacancy.

There are opportunities for people with different qualifications, skills and levels of experience.

Compare the requirements carefully and look for an apprenticeship that matches your interests, abilities and career goals.

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