Apprenticeship levels
There are 4 different types of apprenticeships. Find out what the levels are and what the apprenticeship levels mean.
Foundation apprenticeship
On a Foundation apprenticeship (sometimes called an intermediate apprenticeship) you would usually gain a level 2 qualification that is relevant to the job. A level 2 Foundation apprenticeship is equivalent to GCSE between A*-C grades.
Apprenticeship
On an Apprenticeship (sometimes called an advanced apprenticeship) you would work towards a level 3 qualification that is relevant to the job. A level 3 apprenticeship is equivalent to A levels.
If you are thinking of applying to university with your apprenticeship qualification, be aware that UCAS has not awarded specific UCAS tariff points to level 3 apprenticeship qualifications. You will need to contact individual universities to find out if they will accept your apprenticeship qualification for the course you are applying to.
In the future, UCAS is planning to award UCAS tariff points to level 3 apprenticeship qualifications. The proposal is to award points based on the duration of the level 3 apprenticeship. For example, Apprenticeships that last 3 years will be awarded more points than those lasting 2 years. Please visit UCAS Tariff points for up to date information on when this will start.
Higher level apprenticeship
Higher level apprenticeships usually offer higher level qualifications from level 4 and above. This can include HNCs, HNDs, and Foundation degrees. Some higher level apprenticeships offer full Bachelor's degrees at level 6 and Master's degrees at level 7.
Explore employers who offer higher level apprenticeships.
Degree apprenticeship
Degree apprenticeships combine studying part time at a university or college alongside employment. At the end of a degree apprenticeship you will usually expect to gain a Bachelor's degree at level 6. You may also be able to achieve a Master's degree at level 7 on some apprenticeships.
Degree apprenticeships in Wales work differently than in the rest of the UK. To find out more check out the opportunities in Wales on our degree apprenticeships web page.
Apprenticeship levels quick guide
View the table below for a quick guide to apprenticeship levels.
| Apprenticeship level | Education level |
|---|---|
| Foundation apprenticeship | Level 2 - 5 GCSE's / NVQ level 2 |
| Apprenticeship | Level 3 - 2 A Levels / NVQ level 3 |
| Higher apprenticeship | Level 4/5 - HNC / HND / Foundation degree (Can also be level 6, Bachelor's degree) |
| Degree apprenticeship | Level 6 - Bachelor's degree (Can also be level 7, Master's degree) |
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An apprenticeship is a job where you gain recognised qualifications while you work. Find out about eligibility, wage, training information and the range of apprenticeships on offer.
Find out where to look for apprenticeship vacancies, and how to make your application the best it can be.
Find apprenticeships in Wales