How to apply for a degree apprenticeship
Tips and advice to help you get the degree apprenticeship you want.
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Degree apprenticeships are paid for by employers. So the first step is to get a job with an employer offering an apprenticeship. Once you have the job, you can apply for the programme.
If you’re looking for an apprenticeship
Register for updates
If you register with us, we’ll keep you updated about the latest events and vacancies.
We will invite you to open evenings, where employers, lecturers, the apprenticeship team and current apprentices will give talks, answer your questions and discuss vacancies.
You can also find degree apprenticeship vacancies on:
- the National Apprenticeship Service website – it has more apprenticeship vacancies than any other site
- employer websites – if you know the business you want to work for, be sure to check out their jobs pages
You can apply to traditional undergraduate courses through UCAS without affecting your chances of getting a degree apprenticeship. In fact, it’s a good idea - it gives you options to choose from.
Apply for the apprenticeship
Most degree apprenticeship vacancies are advertised between January and August.
If you find a vacancy you are interested in and have the right qualifications, you should apply for it.
There is no set process for applications. Employers usually have their own process. Most will involve sending your CV and covering letter. You might have to attend an assessment centre, where you complete a task on your own or in teams. And the final stage is usually an interview.
Check out the tips below to get started.
If you’re already employed
If you’re already employed, you’ll need to discuss with your employer whether they will support you in doing a degree apprenticeship.
Our programmes can help fill skills gaps in your organisation as well as give your career a boost - so there’s a strong case to make.
Employers can get financial support from the government to cover your tuition fees. For many employers this means that at least 95% of fees will be paid. For others, 100% of tuition costs will be covered. Our guide to apprenticeship funding explains all.
Once you have your employer’s support, you can ask them to contact us.
We’ll guide them and you through the process, including your application to join the programme.
View our apprenticeship programmes
Undergraduate degree apprenticeship programme brochure
Degree Apprenticeship ProgrammesTop tips for getting your apprenticeship
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Writing a CV and cover letter
- Check the employer’s application process. If they ask for something, make sure you provide it.
- Your CV should be clear and well formatted, with sections for your contact information, skills, work experience and education. Introduce yourself briefly – who you are, what you enjoy and why you want the job.
- Tailor your CV to each job you apply for. Your skills should reflect the job description. When you describe your work experience, say what you did and what you achieved. You can include school work experience and volunteering if it is relevant.
- Your cover letter lets you expand on your CV. Relate your skills to the job. Give examples of how you have used your skills. And say why you want the job.
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Answering competency questions
Some employers don’t want CVs and cover letters.
Instead you might be asked to show your competencies – giving examples of how you have used your skills and knowledge to solve a problem.
If you are asked a competency question, you can use the STAR format in your answers:
- Situation – briefly give the context of your example. What was happening at the time?
- Task – say what you had to do and what you were expected to achieve. Who were you working with? What was your role?
- Action – this should be the most detailed part of your answer. Say what you did and why. Explain how you did it. Show how you used your skills and knowledge
- Result – what did you achieve? What did you learn?
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Preparing for interviews
Interviews tend to be one of the final stages. If you have made it this far, well done.
Give yourself the best shot at being successful:
- research the company fully
- understand the format and length of the interview. Will it involve a task? The more you know, the better you can prepare
- think about how to answer common questions. Why do you want the job? What relevant experience do you have? What are your strengths – and weaknesses? Where do you see yourself in five years?
On the day, make sure you get there in plenty of time. Dress smartly. Tell the truth. Don’t rush your answers. Ask questions about the role and company.
The people interviewing you want you to do well. This is your opportunity to shine.
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Preparing for assessment centres
Some companies run assessment centres to test applicants’ suitability for a role. These can involve individual or group exercises, presentations and psychometric tests.
Here’s what to expect:
- If there is a group exercise, it will normally involve solving a problem. Employers are usually looking to see how you work together. Get involved, don’t take over. Help others to contribute.
- If you are asked to do a presentation, the key is to practice. Try to be clear on what you have to say, and do a run through. Expect to introduce yourself and present back after group exercises.
- Psychometric tests are used to understand your abilities and personality traits. There are plenty of mock tests online, so you can practice and get a feel for what to expect.
- Employers are likely to be observing you throughout the day, including on breaks. Talking to other members of the group and not spending too much time on your phone are both good signals to send.