Higher apprenticeship UK
Level 4 and Level 5 programmes at the Civil Service, NHS, BT, PwC and more. A stepping stone to a degree apprenticeship — earn while you learn.
Level 4–5
Qualification level
Equivalent to HNC (Level 4) or foundation degree (Level 5) — above A-levels
1–2 years
Typical duration
Shorter than a degree apprenticeship; some programmes offer progression to Level 6
Stepping stone to DA
Common pathway
Many higher apprentices progress to a degree apprenticeship at Level 6
What is a higher apprenticeship?
A higher apprenticeship is a Level 4 or Level 5 programme — above A-level standard but below a full honours degree. Level 4 is equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC); Level 5 is equivalent to a foundation degree or Higher National Diploma (HND). They typically last 1–2 years and are available in a wide range of sectors including business, technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Higher apprenticeships are an excellent option if you want to enter the workforce sooner than a degree apprenticeship allows, or if your qualifications sit just below the threshold for Level 6 programmes. Many employers offer a structured progression route from Level 4/5 into a full degree apprenticeship (Level 6).
Top employers offering higher apprenticeships
| Employer | Programme | Salary | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Service | Higher Apprenticeship (various) | £19k–£24k | Level 4 / 5 |
| NHS | Healthcare Science / Admin HA | £18k–£23k | Level 4 / 5 |
| BT Group | Technology HA | £18k–£24k | Level 4 / 5 |
| PwC | Business HA | £20k–£25k | Level 4 / 5 |
| BAE Systems | Engineering HA | £19k–£24k | Level 4 / 5 |
Estimated salary ranges for 2026. Verify with each employer's careers page before applying.
Entry requirements
2 A-levels at grade CC or above (or equivalent)
BTEC Level 3 Merit or above widely accepted; check individual employers
GCSE Maths at grade 4 (C) or above
Required by most employers; grade 5+ preferred by some
GCSE English at grade 4 (C) or above
Required for written communication and academic study
Right to work in the UK
Required for all apprenticeship positions
Age 16 or over at programme start
No upper age limit — career changers and mature applicants welcome
Live higher apprenticeship roles
Updated daily from UK employers.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What is a higher apprenticeship?▾
A higher apprenticeship is a Level 4 or Level 5 programme — equivalent to an HNC (Level 4) or foundation degree (Level 5). It sits above A-level standard but below a full honours degree. Most last 1–2 years and combine paid employment with part-time academic study.
What is the difference between a higher apprenticeship and a degree apprenticeship?▾
A degree apprenticeship is Level 6 (full honours degree, 3–4 years). A higher apprenticeship is Level 4 or 5 (HNC or foundation degree, 1–2 years). Many higher apprentices progress directly into a degree apprenticeship after completing Level 4 or 5.
Can a higher apprenticeship lead to a degree apprenticeship?▾
Yes — this is a common and well-regarded pathway. Employers such as the Civil Service, BAE Systems, and NHS offer structured progression from Level 4/5 into Level 6. Your work experience and Level 4/5 qualification often strengthen your application for degree apprenticeships.
What grades do I need for a higher apprenticeship?▾
Most programmes require 2 A-levels at grade CC or above, or a BTEC Level 3 Merit or above. GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above are almost always required. Some employers are flexible for mature applicants with relevant work experience — always check individual listings.
How much do higher apprentices earn?▾
Higher apprentices typically earn £18,000–£25,000 per year, above the minimum apprenticeship wage. PwC and Capgemini tend to be at the higher end; NHS and Civil Service are mid-range. Salaries increase year on year and rise further if you progress to a degree apprenticeship.
