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Degree apprenticeships

A degree apprenticeship combines a paid job with study for a university degree. Your employer and the government pay for the training, so you do not pay tuition fees.

Checked against official sources on 24 September 2026.

How they work

You are employed, earn a wage and spend part of your time studying with a university, often on day release or in blocks. They usually take three to six years, depending on the level and the job.

How to apply

You apply to the employer, not through a normal UCAS application. Vacancies are advertised by employers, on GOV.UK's Find an apprenticeship service in England, and on the UCAS website. Many open in the autumn and winter for a September start, but dates vary by employer.

Across the UK

• England: degree apprenticeships at bachelor's and master's level.
• Scotland: graduate apprenticeships.
• Wales: degree apprenticeships in selected areas, such as digital and engineering.
• Northern Ireland: higher level apprenticeships.

Things to weigh up

• You earn while you learn and leave without tuition fee debt.
• Places are competitive and limited to the subjects employers offer.
• You will not usually be eligible for a Maintenance Loan, because you are paid a wage.
• You balance work and study, so it can be demanding.

Sources

• GOV.UK: Find an apprenticeship
• UCAS: apprenticeships