What are the different apprenticeship levels? Levels 2–7 explained

Apprenticeship levels show how advanced an apprenticeship is. In England, they run from Level 2, which is broadly equivalent to GCSE level, through to Level 7, which is equivalent to master's degree level. 

Levels 6 and 7 can also be degree apprenticeships, allowing you to work towards a bachelor's or master's degree while earning a salary and gaining experience.

These equivalents are there to help you understand the academic level. An apprenticeship is still different from taking the equivalent qualification through full-time study because you are employed and completing training alongside your job.

Level 2 apprenticeships: a first step into work

A Level 2 apprenticeship is an entry-level route broadly equivalent to GCSE standard.

It can suit someone who wants to start working and developing practical skills relatively early rather than remaining in classroom-based education.

You will be an employee, not simply a student on work experience. That means doing a real job, earning a wage and receiving protected time for training connected with your role.

Level 2 can also provide a route towards a Level 3 apprenticeship as your experience grows.

Level 3 apprenticeships: advanced apprenticeships

Level 3 apprenticeships are known as advanced apprenticeships and are broadly equivalent to A level standard.

They can be a natural option after GCSEs, although individual employers set their own entry requirements.

You will find Level 3 opportunities across a wide range of industries. For some careers, Level 3 may be the qualification you need to enter the profession. In others, it can become a stepping stone towards one of the higher apprenticeships at Levels 4 or 5.

Levels 4 and 5: higher apprenticeships

A Level 4 apprenticeship is broadly comparable with the first year of an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Certificate (HNC), while Level 5 is comparable with a foundation degree or Higher National Diploma (HND).

Higher apprenticeships work well if you want advanced professional training but do not necessarily need a full bachelor’s degree.

You are still employed throughout the apprenticeship. You build your academic or technical knowledge through structured study and then apply that learning in your workplace.

At the University of East London, for example, current apprenticeship provision includes Level 4 routes alongside degree apprenticeships at higher levels. You can browse UEL's apprenticeship courses to see the level attached to each programme.

Level 6: bachelor's degree apprenticeships

A Level 6 apprenticeship is at bachelor's degree level. A Level 6 degree apprenticeship allows you to work towards a full bachelor's degree while holding a real job.

You still spend most of your time with your employer and then complete structured university learning alongside your work. The precise delivery model varies between programmes.

You normally secure an apprenticeship job with an employer first, and the employer works with a university or another training provider to deliver your apprenticeship.

At UEL, this is also how applications work: future apprentices first find and secure an apprenticeship position with an employer and then study with UEL as part of that role. Training fees are normally met by the employer and government rather than the apprentice.

If this route interests you, explore higher and degree apprenticeships at UEL

Level 7: master's-level apprenticeships

Level 7 is the highest of the standard apprenticeship levels in England and is academically equivalent to master's level.

These apprenticeships are often aimed at people developing advanced specialist or professional skills. Depending on the apprenticeship, a Level 7 programme may include a master's degree, although being Level 7 does not automatically mean every apprenticeship awards one.

UEL currently offers Level 7 apprenticeship programmes alongside its Level 4 and Level 6 provision.

This distinction is worth remembering when comparing degree apprenticeship levels: Level 6 corresponds to bachelor's level, while Level 7 corresponds to master's level.

Can you go to university through an apprenticeship?

Yes! Choosing an apprenticeship does not necessarily mean choosing work instead of university.

A degree apprenticeship can mean doing both.

At Level 6 or 7, you may study with a university while working for an employer, gaining professional experience and earning a salary at the same time. UCAS describes degree apprenticeships as a route to an undergraduate or master's degree while you work.

UEL offers higher and degree apprenticeships across areas including business, digital technology, engineering, health and other professional fields. Check the current UEL apprenticeship course list, as available programmes and levels can change.

Ready to explore apprenticeships?

Understanding apprenticeship levels makes the search much easier, but the level is only one part of the decision.

Look at the job you will actually be doing, the qualification you will work towards, the employer, entry requirements and where the apprenticeship could take you afterwards.

If you are interested in studying at UEL through an apprenticeship, start by exploring how apprenticeships work and UEL's apprenticeship courses. Remember that you normally need to secure an apprenticeship job with an employer before enrolling on the university programme.

Frequently asked questions

What are the apprenticeship levels in England?

Apprenticeships in England run from Level 2 to Level 7. Level 2 is broadly equivalent to GCSE level, Level 3 to A level, Levels 4 and 5 to higher education below bachelor's level, Level 6 to bachelor's degree level and Level 7 to master's degree level.

What level is a degree apprenticeship?

Degree apprenticeship levels are normally Level 6 and Level 7. Level 6 corresponds to bachelor's degree level and Level 7 corresponds to master's degree level. Not every apprenticeship at those levels necessarily includes a degree, so always check the individual programme.

What is the difference between a higher and degree apprenticeship?

Higher apprenticeships can run from Levels 4 to 7. Degree apprenticeships sit at Levels 6 and 7 and include undergraduate or master's-level study. In other words, degree apprenticeships are higher-level apprenticeships, but not every higher apprenticeship is a degree apprenticeship.

What apprenticeship levels does UEL offer?

UEL currently offers higher and degree apprenticeships at Levels 4, 6 and 7, depending on the programme. Check the individual UEL apprenticeship course for its level and entry requirements.