Apprenticeship Levels 
Apprenticeships range from level 2 up to level 7. With level 2 being the lowest and 7 being the highest. These levels are also generally split into 4 categories. Intermediate, Advanced, Higher, and Degree. However, the important aspect we need to consider is what are these levels or categories equivalent to.

LEVEL 2 – INTERMEDIATE APPRENTICESHIP
A level 2 apprenticeship is often referred to as an intermediate level apprenticeship. Level 2 is normally agreed to be the equivalent or 5 GCSE passes.  

As this is the lowest level of apprenticeship available. There is generally no eligibility criteria for application. However, you will need to demonstrate you have the ability to complete the course. You will need to be over 16 years old to be able to apply.  Companies are also going to be looking for you to demonstrate a good attitude towards the course to make you an offer.


LEVEL 3 – ADVANCED APPRENTICESHIP
A level 3 apprenticeship is known as an advanced apprenticeship. A Level 3 would be considered to be the same as 2 passes at A-Level.

The level 3 is a common next step for those who have completed a level 2 apprenticeship. This is because to be considered for a level 3 apprenticeship. Companies will normally be looking for someone who has completed a level 2 apprenticeship, or has 5 passes at GCSE. There will be instances were no formal qualification will be needed to apply for a level 3 apprenticeship. However, in this instance you will generally need experience of working in the industry to be considered.

LEVEL 4 – HIGHER APPRENTICESHIP
A level 4 apprenticeship is equivalent to a foundation degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC), or the first year of an undergraduate degree. Higher apprenticeships start at level 4.

The requirements to be considered for a level 4 apprenticeship are normally a lot tougher than those at level 3. Requirements are generally:

• Completed an advanced apprenticeship.
• Hold a level 3 NVQ/SVQ qualification.
• Have a BTEC National qualification.
• 2 passes at A-Level.

Employers may also require 5 passes at GCSE at grade A – C (9-4 on the new scale). As with the other levels, requirements will be different depending on the company. Just because you don’t fit the criteria for the first level 4 you see doesn’t mean you should stop looking!
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LEVEL 5 – HIGHER APPRENTICESHIP
Level 5 apprenticeships are also classified as higher apprenticeships, but are the equivalent of the full degree.

The requirements for a level 5 apprenticeship will be similar to that of a level 4. However, as this is a more advanced course it is not unusual to see more specific requirements from employers. For example, for an IT Apprenticeship a company may ask for a minimum of grade C at A-Level in ICT alongside other requirements.


LEVEL 6 AND LEVEL 7 – DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP
Degree apprenticeships are new types of course offered by universities. The level 6 apprenticeship gives candidates the opportunity to obtain a full bachelor’s degree. The level 7 is an opportunity to gain a masters degree in your chosen subject.
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As these are demanding courses. It is common to see strict requirements from employers for these apprenticeships. You will almost certainly need prior qualifications. And these qualifications will need to be transferable to the apprenticeship in some way.
 

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Click here for help and guidance

Create an account
There are hundreds of different apprenticeships to choose from. To apply for one, you’ll need to create an account on the find an apprenticeship service. You can also save any apprenticeships you like and then apply for them later.

• Create an account here

On this webpage, you will be asked to do the following:

• submit your details (email address, date of birth, address and contact number)
• create a password
• choose your contact preferences
• agree to the terms and conditions and privacy statement  

If you are struggling to complete this information or would like some support to do so, please speak to your tutor in the first instance.
 
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Find an apprenticeship
'Find an apprenticeship' is an online government service which allows you to search, save and apply for apprenticeship opportunities.  The service is used by thousands of employers to advertise their current apprenticeship opportunities, making it easier for you to find the right apprenticeship for you.

• Find an apprenticeship - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you’ve seen an apprenticeship you like on an employer’s website, you can also apply for it directly.  It's a good idea to apply for a few apprenticeships at a time. This increases your chances and means you’re not waiting for a response from one employer.

It's normal to feel nervous when you're applying for an apprenticeship or waiting to hear back from an employer. Try to find out the closing date of the application as this may give you a clue about when you’ll hear back.  It usually takes a few applications to find the right apprenticeship. So if you don’t hear back or get an interview, don’t take it personally - it’s normal and happens to everyone.

Complete the online process of searching and applying. Top tip- consider how far from your home you are able to travel and discuss this first with your family to ensure you are able to get to the apprenticeship location. Also, make sure the “level” is appropriate (see above for details). If you are struggling to complete this information or would like some support to do so please speak to your tutor in the first instance.