Apprenticeship Requirements
If you’re exploring apprenticeships, the first step is understanding if you meet the apprenticeship requirements. This guide breaks down the essential criteria, from age and qualifications to English and Maths expectations and level-specific entry requirements, so you can confidently decide your next move.
If you're leaving school, changing careers, or stepping into a new professional chapter, apprenticeships are built to get you moving. Here’s what you need to qualify.
What are the apprenticeship entry requirements?
Apprenticeships have clear, simple eligibility rules. You need to:
Be 16 or older
Live in England
Not already be in full-time education
Be able to work in the UK for the duration of the apprenticeship
Most programmes also expect:
Basic qualifications (usually GCSEs or equivalent)
A willingness to learn
Commitment to full-time work and training
These apprenticeship entry requirements ensure you’re ready for the demands of real work while developing new skills.
Age requirements
To start an apprenticeship, you must be 16+.
There is no upper age limit.
School leavers, career movers, and professionals wanting to retrain all qualify. What matters is your drive and commitment, not your age.
Apprenticeship English and Maths requirements
Most apprenticeships require:
GCSE English (Grade 4/C or above)
GCSE Maths (Grade 4/C or above)
If you don’t have these, you may still be eligible.
You’ll simply complete Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths during your apprenticeship. This is a built-in part of the programme and costs you nothing.
The goal is progress, not perfection. The apprenticeship English and Maths requirements are designed to support you as you grow.
Level 2 apprenticeship requirements
Level 2 is the foundation level; the equivalent of GCSEs.
It’s built for people starting out or changing direction.
You’ll typically need:
To be 16+
To have basic literacy and numeracy skills
A commitment to learning a new role
No formal GCSEs are required in many cases. Level 2 is designed to open doors, not close them.
Level 3 apprenticeship requirements
A Level 3 apprenticeship is equivalent to A-levels.
Common entry criteria include:
Age 16+
GCSE English and Maths (or willingness to work toward them)
Relevant interest in the area you're applying for
The ability to manage work and study
These Level 3 apprenticeship requirements focus on readiness rather than previous technical experience.
Level 4 apprenticeship requirements
A Level 4 apprenticeship is equivalent to the first year of university.
It demands more independence, discipline, and problem-solving.
Typical level 4 apprenticeship requirements include:
GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above, or equivalent)
A minimum of Level 3 qualifications (A-levels, BTECs, or similar)
Eligibility to work full-time
A strong interest in the chosen field
Some programmes also look for:
Prior work experience (not always essential)
Relevant Level 3 subjects
Requirements for a Level 4 Apprenticeship (quick guide)
If you’re specifically searching for requirements for a Level 4 apprenticeship, here’s the fast version:
Aged 18+ (recommended, but 16+ allowed if eligible)
Level 3 qualifications
GCSE English and Maths
Right to work in the UK
Ability to commit to full-time employment and training
If you meet these, you’re ready to step into a more advanced role.
Level 7 Apprenticeship entry requirements
Level 7 apprenticeships operate at the postgraduate and Master’s level.
They require a higher level of prior study and experience.
Typical level 7 apprenticeship entry requirements include:
A bachelor’s degree (or significant professional experience)
Strong English and Maths qualifications
The ability to work in a demanding, senior-level environment
These programmes are designed for ambitious professionals aiming for high-level qualifications while working.
Degree apprenticeship entry requirements
Degree apprenticeships combine full-time work with university study.
Entry criteria sit between university-level expectations and apprenticeship standards.
Common degree apprenticeship entry requirements include:
Level 3 qualifications (A-levels/BTECs/equivalent)
GCSE English and Maths
Eligibility to work full-time for the full duration of the programme
A strong academic foundation and a clear interest in the field
Some degree apprenticeships may require:
Specific subjects at Level 3
Particular grades
Professional experience
Apprenticeship visa requirements
If you’re not a UK citizen, you must meet the apprenticeship visa requirements.
This means:
You must have the right to work in the UK
Your visa must allow full-time employment
You must remain eligible for the entire apprenticeship duration
Student visas do not usually permit apprenticeships.
Work visas often do — depending on their conditions.
Always check your visa category before applying.
What if you don’t meet the requirements?
Don’t write yourself off.
Apprenticeships are built around progress; you don’t need to be “fully ready” on day one.
If you’re missing English and Maths qualifications or experience, you still have options:
Complete Functional Skills during your apprenticeship
Start at a lower level and progress
Gain short-term work experience
Build confidence with foundation training
How to take your next step
If you meet the apprenticeship requirements, you’re ready to move forward.
Your next steps are simple:
Explore apprenticeship vacancies
Choose the level that matches your experience
Apply online
Complete eligibility checks
Begin your journey
Your future won’t wait, and neither should you.