Apprenticeship Levels – Quick Guide
Understand the different apprenticeship levels, what they are broadly equivalent to, typical entry requirements and how to choose the right engineering apprenticeship for you.
Finding the Right Level Is About More Than Your Age
Apprenticeships in England are available from Level 2 through to Level 7, with each level corresponding broadly to an equivalent level of education.
Your existing qualifications, knowledge, skills and relevant work experience can all be considered when deciding which apprenticeship level is suitable.
You can also have previous qualifications — including a degree — and still undertake an apprenticeship, provided the programme gives you the opportunity to develop substantial new skills and knowledge relevant to your occupation.
Speak to our team. We can talk through your qualifications, experience and the engineering apprenticeship options that may be suitable.
Choosing the Right Apprenticeship Is About More Than the Level
The employer, role, industry and working environment matter just as much as the number attached to the apprenticeship.
Choose the Right Employer
You do not need to find your dream company immediately, but you should look for somewhere you can see yourself working, learning and developing.
- What does the company do?
- What products or services does it provide?
- What type of engineering does it specialise in?
- What would you actually do as an apprentice?
- Does the working environment appeal to you?
Choose Something That Interests You
Engineering covers a huge range of occupations and industries. Look beyond the job title and understand what the employer actually designs, manufactures or supports.
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Motorsport
- Advanced manufacturing
- Electronics
- Defence and energy
How Do You Find Employers Offering Apprenticeships?
Some employers recruit apprentices every year, while others only advertise when they have a particular skills requirement. That means it is worth checking regularly rather than searching once and assuming there are no opportunities available.
Use the government's Find an Apprenticeship service to search by job, employer and location.
Check the careers pages of engineering companies that interest you.
Follow apprenticeship providers and check their latest employer vacancies.
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
Engineering Trust Training primarily works with apprentices at Levels 2, 3 and 4, although apprenticeships can continue through to postgraduate level.
Level 2 Apprenticeship
Often a strong starting point for people entering an occupation and developing their initial workplace knowledge and practical skills.
Entry Requirements
There is no universal set of entry requirements. Employers may set their own requirements and some apprenticeships may specify particular English and maths criteria.
Example Areas
- Manufacturing
- Engineering operations
- Assembly
- Production
- Entry-level technical roles
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Level 3 apprenticeships are common across engineering and manufacturing and can provide a direct route into skilled technical occupations.
Entry Requirements
Requirements vary. An employer may ask for GCSEs at Grade 4 or above in Maths and English, and some may request Science or other relevant subjects.
Example Areas
- Mechanical engineering
- Machining and CNC
- Maintenance
- Electrical and electronic engineering
- Fabrication and welding
- Engineering design
Level 4 Apprenticeship
Level 4 apprenticeships develop more advanced technical and professional skills and can provide progression from Level 3 learning.
Entry Requirements
Employers may look for relevant Level 3 learning, experience or qualifications such as a BTEC, T Level or Level 3 engineering apprenticeship.
Example Areas
- Technical engineering
- Advanced manufacturing
- Engineering operations
- Management-related occupations
Apprenticeships Can Continue to Level 7
Apprenticeships are not limited to entry-level training. They can continue through higher education and postgraduate study.
Broadly equivalent to HND or foundation-degree level.
Broadly equivalent to bachelor's degree level.
Broadly equivalent to master's degree level.
Can You Start at a Higher Apprenticeship Level?
Yes — you do not automatically have to begin at Level 2 and work through every level.
Your starting level depends on the occupation, the employer's requirements and your existing qualifications, knowledge and skills.
Someone leaving school may apply directly for a Level 3 engineering apprenticeship.
Someone with relevant Level 3 qualifications may apply directly for a Level 4 opportunity.
Someone who already has a degree may still undertake an apprenticeship if it provides appropriate new learning.
Top Tips for Finding an Apprenticeship
Keep Checking Vacancies
Apprenticeship opportunities appear throughout the year. Check employer, training-provider and government vacancy pages regularly.
Research Employers
If there is a company you would like to work for, explore its careers page and find out whether it recruits apprentices.
Make Your Application Stand Out
Explain why engineering interests you, why you want that particular role and what makes the employer appealing.
Prepare for Your Interview
Understand the company, the apprenticeship and the role. Prepare examples and questions of your own.
Explore Engineering Apprenticeships
Whether you are leaving school, progressing from another qualification or developing your engineering career, our team can help you understand the available options.