Apprenticeships aren't just for school leavers: how they work for adults in England, the pay rules, how long they last, the costs, how to find one, and whether one is right for you.
Apprenticeships combine paid work with training towards a recognised qualification. There is no upper age limit in England, and adults can start an apprenticeship to change career or progress in their current job. Levels range from 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) up to 7 (master's degree level).
How an apprenticeship works?
- You are employed, with a contract of employment and the same rights as other employees, including holiday.
- Part of your working time is spent on off-the-job training, with a college, university or training provider.
- At the end, you complete an assessment to show you are competent.
- You don't pay tuition fees. The cost of training is met by your employer and the government.
Pay
From 1 April 2026, the apprentice rate of the National Minimum Wage is £8.00 an hour. It applies to apprentices aged under 19, and to those aged 19 or over in the first year of their apprenticeship. After the first year, apprentices aged 19 or over must get at least the minimum wage for their age. Many employers pay more, especially for adult and higher-level apprenticeships.
How long it lasts?
Apprenticeships usually last from one to several years, depending on the level. The minimum duration has been reduced to 8 months for programmes starting from August 2026. Your previous experience may shorten the training.
Degree apprenticeships
Level 6 and 7 apprenticeships lead to a bachelor's or master's degree, with no tuition fees and a salary. They are competitive and available in fields such as engineering, digital, nursing, management and law.
Apprenticeships with your current employer
Existing employees can often start an apprenticeship to gain new skills. Ask your manager or HR. Your employer must agree and support your training time.
English and maths
The rules on English and maths requirements for adult apprentices have been relaxed. Check the current requirements for your apprenticeship with the training provider.
How do you find one?
- Search the official Find an apprenticeship service on GOV.UK.
- Check employers' own career pages.
- Talk to the National Careers Service for free advice.
- Ask local colleges and training providers about employers they work with.
Is an apprenticeship right for you?
Consider:
- Income: can you manage on the wage offered, especially if it's lower than your current pay?
- Time: combining work and study is demanding.
- Career: does the apprenticeship lead to the job you want?
- Benefits: if you receive benefits, check how apprenticeship pay affects them.
Your rights as an apprentice
- A written apprenticeship agreement and training plan, setting out what you'll learn and how.
- Paid time for training, which counts as working hours.
- At least the statutory minimum holiday, and the usual workplace protections.
- Support from your training provider; if problems arise, talk to them and your employer first.
Examples of adult apprenticeships
Popular options for adults include accounting and finance, project management, digital and IT roles, data analysis, healthcare and nursing support, teaching assistants, engineering and the building trades. Many are available at levels 3 to 7, allowing progression over time.
Applying
- Tailor your application to the employer, showing interest in the role and transferable skills.
- Highlight your experience: adults often have strengths from previous work.
- Prepare for interviews and assessment tasks.
Outside England
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland run their own apprenticeship programmes with different rules: Apprenticeships.scot, Apprenticeships Wales and nidirect.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do an apprenticeship if I already have a degree?
Yes, in many cases, if the apprenticeship teaches you substantial new skills.
Can I do one part-time?
Apprenticeships are usually at least 30 hours a week; part-time options exist with a longer duration.
Am I too old?
No. There's no upper age limit.
Sources and further reading
- GOV.UK: Become an apprentice
- GOV.UK: Find an apprenticeship
- GOV.UK: National Minimum Wage rates
- National Careers Service
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.