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How to apply for an apprenticeship

AuthorDarcy Nathan, editor
Posted on

Ready to gain real-world experience and earn while you learn? Our guide takes you through applying for an apprenticeship, from initial research to the final interview

How do I choose what apprenticeships to apply for?

Before applying for an apprenticeship, it's crucial to understand what employers in your chosen field expect and what each apprenticeship entails. Typically, apprenticeships involve:

  • practical work experience under the guidance of a skilled professional
  • classroom-based learning to complement hands-on training
  • a structured programme that leads to a certification or qualification.

Ensure that any apprenticeship you apply for aligns with your interests and career goals. Consider the following questions:

  • What subjects do you excel in?
  • What are your passions?
  • What work environment do you envision yourself in?

Apprenticeships are available at different levels, and choosing the right one depends on your existing qualifications and career goals. If you're unsure which level is right for you, check out our essential guide to apprenticeships.

What does the apprenticeship application process involve?

While each employer's recruitment process will differ, most apprenticeship applications follow a similar structure. Understanding the stages can help you prepare and manage your time effectively.

A typical apprenticeship application process may include:

The process can take several weeks or months, so be sure to keep track of deadlines and respond promptly to requests from employers.

Your application will often include competency-based questions designed to assess your skills, motivation and suitability for the role.

When answering application questions:

  • read each question carefully and follow any word limits
  • use real examples from school, college, part-time work or extra-curricular activities
  • structure your answers clearly using the STAR method (situation, task, action, result)
  • tailor your responses to the employer and the apprenticeship role.

Avoid copying and pasting the same answers into multiple applications, as employers can easily identify generic responses.

What are the entry requirements for an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are available to people of all ages and career stages. You can apply if you are:

Some apprenticeships have specific entry requirements, such as GCSEs or A-levels, while others focus more on attitude and potential. To apply for a degree apprenticeship, you'll usually need at least two A-levels and some relevant experience.

You must have the right to work in the UK and meet residency requirements.

To discover opportunities, you can search for vacancies at:

Some organisations don't widely advertise their opportunities. Consider making speculative applications to companies you'd like to work for or networking with industry professionals to explore potential opportunities.

What do employers look for in an apprentice?

Employers understand that many apprenticeship applicants have limited work experience. Instead, they look for potential and a willingness to learn.

Key qualities employers value include:

  • a genuine interest in the industry
  • a positive attitude and motivation
  • reliability and punctuality
  • strong communication and teamwork skills
  • the ability to learn and take feedback.

Demonstrating these qualities in your application and during the interview can be just as important as having relevant qualifications. See what skills do employers want? for more guidance.

Ensure your online presence reflects a professional image. Review your social media profiles and remove any content that could be considered inappropriate or unprofessional.

Discover how employers see you online.

When should I apply for apprenticeships?

Apprenticeship application deadlines vary significantly. Always check the specific advertisement for the exact deadline, as this will differ depending on the programme and the provider.

To increase your chances of securing a place, it's best to apply early.

For higher, degree, and accounting apprenticeships, applications typically open around September and close between late October and early May. However, some employers may close applications as early as February or March, while others may accept applications until the summer.

How do I tailor my CV to an apprenticeship?

A strong CV is the foundation of any application. It should be professional, clear, and concisely demonstrate your suitability for the position. Ensure your CV is easy to read and error-free.

Use a simple font, clearly divide sections, and use bullet points for easy reading. Your CV will need to include:

  • Profile: An opening paragraph showcasing your most relevant qualities, skills, and experience for the role you're applying for. Learn more about writing a personal statement for your CV.
  • Education: Many apprenticeship applicants have limited work experience. If the apprenticeship you're applying for will be your first position outside of full-time education, highlight your academic achievements. Emphasise transferable skills developed through group work, coursework, and end-of-year exams, such as excellent organisation and time management.
  • Work experience: List all previous paid employment and any relevant non-paid experience, such as voluntary work or work placements, in reverse chronological order. Even if you think your experience isn't directly relevant, it can still highlight transferable skills. For instance, if you're applying for an engineering apprenticeship, past customer service experience demonstrates excellent communication and the ability to think on your feet - valuable qualities for any future engineer.
  • Interests/hobbies: Only include interests and hobbies if they're relevant to the position or demonstrate a particularly impressive achievement. For example, if you're applying for a computer programming role and build websites in your spare time, it's worth mentioning.

Discover more tips on how to write a CV.

Should I write a cover letter for an apprenticeship application?

Your cover letter is a vital component of your apprenticeship application. It provides an opportunity to expand on the achievements and skills highlighted in your CV, showcasing why you are an ideal candidate for the apprenticeship. Remember to keep it concise and impactful, as employers may have many applications to review.

While it might be tempting to reuse cover letters, especially when applying for apprenticeships with similar requirements, it's crucial to invest time in researching each company and tailoring your application accordingly. This approach allows you to demonstrate your genuine interest to potential employers and identify companies that align perfectly with your:

  • career aspirations
  • needs
  • strengths.

Be realistic about how many applications you can research, write, and submit while maintaining a good quality of work.

Explore how to craft the perfect cover letter or find inspiration by reviewing our example apprenticeship cover letter.

What is an apprenticeship assessment centre?

Some employers use assessment centres to evaluate candidates further, particularly for higher or degree apprenticeships. These may be held in person or online.

Assessment centres may include:

  • group exercises to assess teamwork and communication
  • presentations or written tasks
  • problem solving or work-related simulations
  • one-to-one interviews.

Employers are not expecting perfection. They want to see how well you approach tasks, communicate with others and respond to feedback.

How do I prepare for an apprenticeship interview?

Before you attend your interview, research the company thoroughly. You can also follow them on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram to get a feel for their brand and culture.

Arrive at the interview with questions to ask your interviewer, and think about preparing some answers to questions you might be asked.

Common apprenticeship interview questions include:

  • Why are you interested in this apprenticeship?
  • What are your career goals, and how does this apprenticeship align with them?
  • What are your top three strengths, and how would you apply them to this apprenticeship?
  • Describe a situation where you had to learn a new skill quickly. How did you approach it?

Explore general interview questions employers may ask.

Be prepared to discuss your strengths, areas for improvement, and career ambitions confidently.

If you're feeling nervous, ask a friend, teacher, or parent to help you think of what to include. If available, read about the experiences of previous apprentices to get a better idea of what to expect.

Can I apply for university and for apprenticeships?

Yes, you can apply for both. This approach keeps your options open, allowing you to choose the path that best aligns with your goals, interests, and circumstances after receiving offers.

Applying for both can be time-consuming, so ensure you have sufficient time and resources to dedicate to both applications.

How do I accept an apprenticeship offer?

If you receive an apprenticeship offer, take time to review the details before accepting.

Consider:

  • progression opportunities after completion
  • salary, working hours and location
  • training provider and qualification
  • the job role and responsibilities.

Once accepted, you'll usually complete pre-employment checks and be formally enrolled with your training provider before starting.

What should I do if I get rejected from an apprenticeship?

If your application is unsuccessful, try to view it as a learning opportunity. Rejection is common, and many successful apprentices secure a place after multiple applications.

You can:

  • ask the employer for feedback
  • review your CV and application answers
  • practise interview techniques
  • continue applying for other opportunities.

Don't be deterred - continue applying for apprenticeships and other job opportunities. Persistence is key to finding the right fit.

Get more interview tips.

Find out more