Can you apply for an apprenticeship in the UK if you already have a degree?

For many graduates, obtaining a degree will be enough to propel you into a new exciting career. For some, however, the world of work after university just may not live up to your expectations. Perhaps finding a job proves difficult without relevant work experience or a new career path that’s unrelated to your degree subject suddenly grabs your attention. Entering an apprenticeship may be the answer.

But can you apply for an apprenticeship in the UK if you already have an undergraduate degree? The answer is yes. Apprenticeships in the UK are open to people over 16 years old of all educational backgrounds, including graduates. However, it’s important to understand which level of apprenticeship suits your needs.

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship allows you to combine the benefits of employment with training for a qualification and gaining hands-on experience. In the UK, there are a range of apprenticeship levels:

• Intermediate (level 2) is equivalent to GCSEs.
• Advanced (level 3) is equivalent to A levels.
• Higher (levels 4 and 5) is equivalent to an HNC, foundation degree, or first year of an undergraduate degree.
• Degree (levels 6 to 7) is equivalent to an undergraduate or master’s degree

These levels may vary depending on which UK country you want to study in.

You can find apprenticeship schemes through:

• the government website for your UK country
• job boards, like JobLookup
• company websites
• UCAS
• career fairs
• your university careers adviser

To be eligible, you’ll need to be at least 16 years old, resident in the country where you want to study, and not in full-time education during the apprenticeship.

What are the Pros and Cons of Applying for an Apprenticeship as a Graduate?

While you can enter an apprenticeship as a graduate, it’s worth considering the benefits and disadvantages before applying.

  Pros

• You can earn a wage and enjoy employee benefits like holiday and sick pay while you train.
• You’ll gain relevant work experience to accompany your qualification.
• UK apprenticeships are paid for by the government and employers, so you don’t have to build up any more debt.
• It’s a great way to switch careers if you decide your degree doesn’t lead to a job you’re interested in.

  Cons

• Apprentices are paid the national minimum wage or national living wage, depending on age. This will generally be lower than the salary you could earn as a graduate.
• You usually won’t be able to enter an apprenticeship scheme if you already have a degree in that subject. The exception to this would be for a level 7 apprenticeship which leads to a master’s degree.
• Employers may be more inclined to offer intermediate and advance apprenticeships to non-graduates.

Tips for Applying for an Apprenticeship as a Graduate

If you decide to apply for an apprenticeship as a graduate, here are our top tips to improve your chances of success.

  Choose the Right Apprenticeship Level

While Intermediate or Advanced apprenticeships can be valuable to build foundational skills, graduates are often better suited to Higher or Degree apprenticeships. These involve levels of training that are closer to your academic experience during university.

Choosing the right level makes sure that the apprenticeship is challenging enough to keep your interest and further develop your skills and experience.

  Craft a Stand-out Application

When applying for an apprenticeship as a graduate, it’s important to tailor your application to the training scheme and eventual job. Mention transferable skills gained during your degree, work experience, or hobbies and interests that are relevant to the apprenticeship. These might include problem-solving, communication, or time management.

Show your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship by explaining why you’re eager to gain practical, industry-specific skills. Employers want to know that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the learning opportunities it provides.

Finally, explain how the apprenticeship aligns with your career plans. That might be stepping into a new industry or building on your degree. This will help employers understand your commitment and how the apprenticeship fits into your bigger picture.

  Do Your Research

Start by exploring apprenticeship platforms like GOV.UK’s apprenticeship service or UCAS Apprenticeships to find suitable schemes. Research the requirements to apply for each apprenticeship, the training structure, and where the scheme could lead.

Once you’ve built a list of suitable apprenticeships, look into the companies offering the schemes. What are their values, recent projects and news, and reputation within the industry? How does that match your own values, interests, and career aspirations?

Finally, stay informed about the industry you’re entering. This knowledge may come in handy when answering interview questions or tailoring your application to show why you’re a perfect fit.

  Be Honest

An employer may question why you’re applying for an apprenticeship when you already have a degree. Be prepared to explain your reasons clearly and confidently. Whether you’re looking to gain practical experience, change to a new career path, or improve your skills, it’s important to be upfront and yourself.

Wrapping it up

So to answer the question, yes, you can apply for an apprenticeship if you already have a degree. Whether you want to change career path, improve your skills, or gain hands-on work experience, apprenticeships can offer valuable industry-specific training with a salary and benefits while you learn.