If you are considering applying for an Apprenticeship, it’s important to know what the different levels mean. You need to know that the Apprenticeship you wish to apply for is the next best step for your career. Understanding the levels also makes it easier to decide whether you meet the entry requirements.
What are the different levels of Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships range from Level 2 up to Level 6, with Level 2 being the starting point and 6 being the highest. These levels are also split up into categories: Intermediate, Higher, Advanced and Degree. It’s useful to know what these levels or categories are equivalent to and an idea of the experience you’ll need to apply for each level.
Level 1 and Level 2 – Beginner and Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Lowest levels of Apprenticeship available
- Level 1 equivalent to 5 GCSEs at Grade E/1+ and Level 2 equivalent of 5 GCSE passes at Grade C/4+
- Generally no eligibility criteria, but you’ll need to show that you have the ability to complete the course and be over the age of 16 to apply.
Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeship
- Level 3 would be the same as 2 passes at A-level
- Next step for people who have completed a Level 2 Apprenticeship
- Employers looking for someone who has either completed a Level 2 Apprenticeship or has 5 GCSE passes
- Where no qualification is required, you will usually need industry experience to be considered.
Level 4 – Higher Apprenticeship
- Equivalent to a Foundation Degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or the first year of an Undergraduate Degree
- Entry requirements usually include one of the following: completed an Advanced Apprenticeship; hold a Level 3 NVQ/SVQ qualification; have a BTEC national qualification; 2 A-Level passes
- Employers may also require 5 GCSE passes at Grade 9-4 (A-C), but this is dependent on the company.
Level 5 – Higher Apprenticeship
- Equivalent to a full Undergraduate Degree
- Requirements are similar to Level 4 Apprenticeship, however some employers may set more specific criteria, such as relevant industry qualifications.
Level 6 – Degree Apprenticeship
- New types of courses now offered by universities
- Level 6 gives candidates the opportunity to gain a full Bachelor’s Degree
- Often strict entry requirements from employers, including specific qualifications that are relevant to the Apprenticeship.
Find out more about our current vacancies here or email apprenticeships@stcg.ac.uk
