Levels of Apprenticeship

There are a wide variety of different levels of apprenticeship, each offering different qualifications. Here at Estio, we offer different apprenticeship levels, from Level 3 to Level 7.

There’s power in upskilling

Different levels of apprenticeship

Level 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeship
Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeship
Level 4 – Higher Apprenticeship
Level 5 – Higher Apprenticeship
Level 6 and 7 – Degree Apprenticeships
Level 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeship

This is often referred to as an intermediate level apprenticeship. Level 2 is generally considered to be the equivalent of 5 GCSE passes. It’s the lowest level of apprenticeship available, and there isn’t usually any eligibility criteria – but, you will have to demonstrate that you can complete the course, and you need to be over 16 to apply.

Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeship

This is known as an advanced apprenticeship. This is the equivalent to be the same as two passes at A Level, and is the common next step for those who have completed a Level 2 apprenticeship. In terms of eligibility criteria, companies often look for someone who has completed a Level 2 apprenticeship or has 5 passes at GCSE.

Level 4 – Higher Apprenticeship

This is equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree, or a Higher National Certificate (HNC). The requirements are a bit tougher, requiring applicants to have completed a Level 3 apprenticeship, have a Level 3 NVQ/SVQ, have a BTEC or two passes at A Level.

Level 5 – Higher Apprenticeship

Also classified as higher apprenticeships, the Level 5 apprenticeship equivalent is a foundation degree. The requirements will be similar to that of a Level 4, but it’s not unusual to see more specific requirements from employers.

Level 6 and 7 – Degree Apprenticeships

These give candidates the opportunity to obtain a full Bachelor’s degree – with the Level 7 offering the opportunity to gain a Master’s in your chosen subject. As these are more demanding courses, you will likely find more strict requirements from employers.

Level 6 Apprenticeships
Level 7 Apprenticeships

Which apprenticeship level is right for you?

Deciding on the best levels of apprenticeship for you will depend entirely on your previous experience. If you already have qualifications and are looking for a career change, you may be eligible for a higher level apprenticeship off the bat. However, if you are a school-leaver starting from scratch, your options will be more limited.

View Jobs

How long does it take to complete each level of apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships will take a minimum of one year, but can range to as long as six years to complete, depending on the level. Some factors will influence how long an apprenticeship takes, like your previous career and experience, or the type of role you are seeking an apprenticeship for.

Why are there six different levels of apprenticeship, but only four categories?

You might have noticed that whilst there are different apprenticeship levels, ranging from Level 2 to Level 7, there are only four different categories. Both Higher apprenticeships and Degree apprenticeships have two separate level qualifications.

Apprenticeship levels FAQs

Can I progress from one apprenticeship level to the next?

Yes – each of the different levels of apprenticeship you complete will equip you with the correct qualifications to progress to the next.

What is the highest apprenticeship level?

The highest level of apprenticeship is Level 7, which is a degree apprenticeship that offers the ability to study towards a Master’s degree.

Why are there so many different apprenticeship levels?

Each apprenticeship level is representative to a level of further education, like A Levels, foundation degrees and so on. This offers the opportunity to study and achieve these qualifications without the need to go to college or university full-time, completing different levels of apprenticeships instead.

Can I do an apprenticeship level even if I have the qualifications?

Yes, as long as you have the qualifying criteria for the level of apprenticeship there isn’t any reason why you can’t embark upon it. For instance, you might already have a degree, and pursue a degree apprenticeship in a different topic.

Do different levels cost different fees?

They do – but all apprenticeship fees are covered by the Apprenticeship Levy – find out more about apprenticeship funding, here.

What our employers say

The frequent contact with the Estio Team has been very beneficial. I have recommended Estio to other organisations in my network and look forward to working together again in the future.

| Leeds and Yorkshire Housing Association

Estio were first class in their delivery and explanation of exploring apprenticeship options as a Cyber Security startup business. From the process to available funding, and most importantly ongoing support for our chosen candidates. We are 100% confident that when we look to expand, Estio will be our default partner of choice.

| Cyber Vigilance

What our learners say

I couldn’t recommend Estio Training enough for their delightfully helpful, hands-on team, who made my journey in finding my next career venture feel like such a completely stress-free and pleasant experience.

| New Apprentice, Google Review

Available Jobs

Popular Insights

Breaking into the marketing industry: Mya’s story

Having completed our Level 3 Digital Marketing apprenticeship in May 2023 with a Distinction whilst working at Kent based marketing agency, I Do Marketing Ltd, Mya Clarivette has gained valuable learning and work experiences that will stay with her throughout her marketing career. Influences on wanting a marketing career Mya first fell in love with […]

Read More

Help NGOs build digital solutions for a humanitarian crisis

Technology performs best when it’s built together and used together to better define its purpose and impact. 70% of employees said technology improved collaboration and 83% of employees rely on using technology for collaboration.[1] This means technology has the power to help individuals and organisations. For example, NGOs (non-profit organisations) need help from software development […]

Read More

How to transform your business with CRM developers and apprenticeships

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are digital systems that help businesses manage customer relationships and data. They are the sound way for businesses to acquire new customers and nurture existing ones. CRM developers help businesses face challenges Successful CRM systems enable businesses to have smooth interactions with customers. As a result, businesses can nurture customer […]

Read More

How do DevOps Engineers protect software

As businesses scale SaaS, they share software with more clients and people to use. It’s important that software is protected whilst it’s scaled, or it won’t be effective. Software security Software security means ensuring security at every stage of the software development lifecycle. Software security steps needed: Integrating security into every stage of the development […]

Read More
Close

I am a prospective learner

looking to become an apprentice.

Learner enquire

I am an employer

looking to upskill or enrol people to my team using apprenticeships.

Employer enquire

    Discuss your apprenticeship training needs

    Simply complete the form below and we'll contact you

    First Name

    Last Name

    Email Address

    Phone Number

    Company Name

    Job Title

    Company Size

    Please select the subject you are interested in:

    Please select a course:

    Your Information

    The information you provide will be processed in accordance with Estio's Privacy Policy which you can find at www.estio.co.uk.

      Discuss your apprenticeship training needs

      Simply complete the form below and we'll contact you

      First Name

      Last Name

      Email Address

      Phone Number

      Postcode

      Please select the subject you are interested in:

      If already employed, are you looking to do an apprenticeship with your current employer?

      If yes, please provide company name

      Please attach an up-to-date copy of your CV, along with a covering letter stating why you are interested in undertaking an apprenticeship.

      Your Information

      The information you provide will be processed in accordance with Estio's Privacy Policy which you can find at www.estio.co.uk.