Apprenticeship Wage Information
This guide breaks down exactly how much apprentices get paid, how wages progress, what the apprenticeship minimum wage is, and what real employers typically offer, so you can make confident decisions about your future.
What is the apprenticeship wage?
The apprenticeship wage is the salary paid to apprentices while they train. It’s a real salary for real work in a real job, not a token payment or a volunteer role.
If you’ve been asking “what is an apprenticeship wage?”, here’s the simplest answer:
It’s the amount you earn while you learn.
It rises as you gain experience.
It gives you a financially supported entry into your chosen career.
Apprenticeship wage
Every April, the UK government updates both the national apprenticeship wage and the National Minimum Wage.
If you’re searching for the apprenticeship wage, keep in mind:
New rates apply to all employers
Your wage cannot fall below the updated legal minimum
Most apprentices see annual increases
This ensures your earning power keeps growing as you continue your training.
Apprenticeship minimum wage (legal requirements)
The apprenticeship minimum wage is the lowest amount an employer can legally pay an apprentice.
You are entitled to this wage if you are:
Aged 16–18, or
Aged 19+ and in the first year of your apprenticeship
After your first year, your wage must increase to at least the National Minimum Wage for your age group. This means your pay rises automatically with time and experience.
How much do apprentices get paid?
Apprentice pay varies, but one thing is guaranteed:
Apprentices are paid employees, and every employer must pay at least the government-set minimum.
Actual salaries depend on:
Age
Apprenticeship level
Location
Industry
Employer pay structures
But many apprentices earn above the legal minimum, especially in competitive or technical fields.
If you’re wondering how much do apprentices get paid, the honest answer is:
Enough to support you while you build the career you want.
How much do apprentices get paid a month?
To estimate monthly pay, multiply your hourly wage by your contracted weekly hours, then by 52, and divide by 12.
A common set-up is:
37.5–40 hour work week
Paid hourly
Paid monthly
Monthly earnings vary, but this rough guide helps:
Monthly pay = hourly rate × weekly hours × 52 ÷ 12
If you’ve searched how much do apprentices get paid a month, this formula gives you clarity and realistic expectations.
Apprenticeship hourly rate
Apprenticeship wages are typically calculated as an hourly rate, similar to most entry-level jobs.
Your hourly rate:
Will never be below the legal minimum
May increase based on performance
Often rises faster in technical sectors
If you’re comparing different opportunities, the apprenticeship hourly rate is one of the best indicators of employer competitiveness.
Wage progression after the first year
Here’s the part many people don’t realise:
After your first 12 months, if you’re 19 or older, your wage must increase — by law — to match the National Minimum Wage for your age.
And many employers choose to pay more as your skills grow.
This means your salary improves while you’re still training, not just after you qualify.
Factors that affect apprenticeship salary
Your apprenticeship salary depends on:
Industry demand
Role responsibilities
Company size
Location
Your existing skills
Technical apprenticeships (IT, software, cyber, engineering) often pay significantly above the minimum due to high employer demand.
National apprenticeship wage vs real pay
The national apprenticeship wage is the legal baseline.
Real pay — what many employers actually offer — is usually higher because:
Employers want strong candidates
Apprentices contribute real value
Technical sectors are competitive
Employers invest in long-term skill development
So if you’ve wondered how much an apprenticeship wage is, remember: The legal minimum is the floor, not the average.
Apprenticeship wage calculator: what to expect
While a true apprenticeship wage calculator would depend on your region and employer, here’s a quick estimation method:
Check the current apprenticeship minimum wage
Compare it to the typical pay for your industry and region
Include wage increases after the first year
Estimate monthly pay using contracted hours
This gives you a realistic, personalised salary expectation.
Your wage rights as an apprentice
As an apprentice, you’re protected by employment law.
You are entitled to:
A written employment contract
Paid holiday
At least the apprenticeship minimum wage
Minimum wage increases after year one (if 19+)
A safe working environment
Fair treatment, like any other employee
You’re not “cheap labour”. You’re a developing professional, and the law backs you.
How to maximise your earning potential
Your wage can grow faster if you:
Show reliability and initiative
Take on new responsibilities
Develop skills quickly
Ask for feedback and act on it
Demonstrate professionalism from day one
Performance drives progress, and employers value apprentices who push for more.