Degree Apprenticeships FAQs

How do I apply to a degree apprenticeship?

To apply for a degree apprenticeship, you must apply directly to the employer, rather than the university or training provider. You can find companies that are taking on apprentices on the Government’s Find an Apprenticeship platform and on UCAS.

The application process will likely involve submitting a CV, cover letter and application form. In your cover letter you should demonstrate how you meet or exceed the criteria outlined in the job description. If you are successful in this initial stage, you will be invited to an interview. In the interview, the employer will ask questions about your skills and experiences and your motivations for applying. Some application processes may also involve aptitude tests, exercises or assessment centres.

What qualifications do I need to apply for a degree apprenticeship?

You typically need a Level 3 qualification such as A Levels, a T Level or an advanced or higher apprenticeship before completing a degree apprenticeship.

For our Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Product Design and Development Engineer, we require:

• C or 5, or above in GSCE Maths and English (or equivalent qualifications).
• An additional STEM subject GCSE at grade C or 5, or above.
• Post-GCSE qualification in Engineering or relevant STEM subjects.
• Minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points.
• Apprentices must be employed in a relevant role and working in England.

Can graduates do apprenticeships?

If you already have an undergraduate degree, you may be interested in a Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship which is equivalent to a Master’s Degree.

When do degree apprenticeships open for applications?

Employers advertise degree apprenticeships throughout the year. There is no national deadline like the UCAS deadline for university applications.

Can you do a degree apprenticeship after A Levels?

It is possible to do a degree apprenticeship after A Levels. To apply for a degree apprenticeship, you must apply directly to the employer, rather than the university or training provider.

Are degree apprenticeships free?

Degree apprenticeships are free to the apprentices. The employer is expected to pay the tuition fees. The employer usually receives funding for this from a government levy.

How much do degree apprenticeships pay?

Salary for apprentices vary depending on the employer and the location.

Will I still get a student loan with a degree apprenticeship?

Apprentices do not receive student loans. Their tuition fees are paid by their employer, and they will receive a salary whilst undertaking their apprenticeship.

Will I have summer holidays off as a degree apprentice?

Apprentices do not typically have long summer, winter and spring breaks like university students. You would have a set number of annual leave days that you can take when you wish, subject to your employer’s approval.

How long is a degree apprenticeship programme?

Degree apprenticeships typically last between 3 and 7 years. Our Level 6 Product Design and Development Engineer Apprenticeship is a 4 year course.

How much time is spent at university?

Apprentices typically spend 20% of their time studying at university, college or a training provider. This may be one day a week or could be full-time over a week or several weeks at a time. This is known as block-teaching.

Our Engineering Degree Apprenticeships will come to campus fortnightly, on Fridays, for in-person training. On-campus days include facilitated focused workshops, laboratories and drop-in sessions with tutors, skills coaches, and academics. Live training will take place online on other Fridays.

Am I guaranteed a job after a degree apprenticeship?

To undertake a degree apprenticeship, you must be employed throughout. You would usually continue to be employed by the same company after completing your apprenticeship, but the terms of this are dependent on your employer.

What level are degree apprenticeships?

Degree apprenticeships can be Level 6 (equivalent to an undergraduate degree) or Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree).

How are degree apprenticeships assessed?

Apprentices are assessed through an End Point Assessment (EPA). Apprentices will prepare and maintain a professional portfolio throughout the duration of the course, supported by the apprenticeship tutor. At the end of the programme, apprentices will participate in a professional discussion based on their portfolio.

The occupation competence assessment is based on two assessment components:

1. A case studies presentation underpinned by supporting evidence.
2. An occupational professional discussion underpinned by a competence report and supporting evidence.

Why do a degree apprenticeship? What are the benefits of a degree apprenticeship?

Degree apprenticeships are an excellent opportunity to earn while you learn, meaning you can put your new knowledge and skills into practice throughout your course. It is also a way to obtain a university degree without having to take out a student loan and maintenance loan.

There are many benefits to completing a degree apprenticeship over a traditional degree:

• Real-life experience – throughout a degree apprenticeship, most of your time will be spent at work gaining real-life, hands-on experience. At the end of your degree you will have four years of valuable work experience, providing excellent employment prospects.
• No tuition fees or student loan – degree apprenticeship allow you to complete a university degree without having to pay for tuition yourself or take out a student loan.
• Earn while you learn – throughout your degree apprenticeship you will be paid a salary.
• Networking – throughout your apprenticeship you will build a wide network or professionals in the workplace and in your place of study. These connections can be valuable for providing advice, mentorship and possibly even employment in the future.

How do I know if a degree apprenticeship is right for me?

Only you can answer this question! If you are keen to start or continue working but still want to upskill and gain a qualification whilst doing so, then you should consider a degree apprenticeship. However, if you are looking for more flexible study options or aren’t sure what career you want to pursue, a traditional degree may be more suitable. It’s important to look at all your options and consider which aspects are most important to you.