When do degree apprenticeships open?
Full UK application timeline by employer — from September openers like Google and KPMG to rolling NHS vacancies. Plan early to beat the competition.
Sep–Nov
Earliest openers
Google, GCHQ, Big Four — the most competitive programmes; apply the day applications open
Jan–Mar
Second wave
BT, Capgemini, IBM, Siemens — slightly less compressed, but still competitive
Rolling
Year-round roles
NHS Trusts and Civil Service departments — apply as vacancies arise
Application windows by employer (2026)
| Period | Key employers | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| September – November | Google, GCHQ, KPMG, PwC, EY, Deloitte BrightStart, Clifford Chance, Linklaters | Most competitive — apply immediately when applications open; some fill within weeks |
| October – December | Barclays, HSBC, BAE Systems, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Dyson | Engineering and banking programmes; apply in November for best chance |
| January – March | BT Group, Capgemini, Accenture, IBM, Siemens, Network Rail | Tech and engineering employers; application rounds often less compressed |
| February – May | Civil Service Fast Stream, NHS Digital, Experian, Capital One | Some programmes have multiple cohorts throughout the year |
| Rolling (year-round) | NHS Trusts (nursing, healthcare science), Civil Service (various departments) | Apply as vacancies arise; set job alerts to be notified immediately |
Dates are indicative based on typical patterns. Always verify directly with each employer — windows can shift by a few weeks year on year.
What to do and when — a Year 12 to 13 timeline
Research and open days
Research target employers and their specific programmes. Attend employer open days and virtual events — many are held October–January. Sign up for employer newsletters and graduate scheme updates.
Work experience and preparation
Gain relevant work experience if possible. Practice psychometric and aptitude tests (numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, situational judgement). Draft your CV and personal statement early.
Apply early to September openers
Apply to Google, GCHQ, Big Four, and other September-opening programmes immediately. These programmes fill quickly. Have all application materials ready before September.
Complete remaining applications
Apply to engineering, banking, and other October–December openers. Attend online assessments and video interviews as they are scheduled. Prepare for assessment centres.
Mop-up round and rolling applications
Apply to January–March openers (BT, Capgemini, IBM). Monitor rolling NHS and Civil Service vacancies. A-level predicted grades may be requested at this stage.
Confirm offers
Confirm conditional offers once A-level results are published. Contact employers if your results differ from predictions — many are flexible with strong candidates.
Set up job alerts — be first to apply
Degree apprenticeship roles fill quickly. Sign up to Apprentice Wizard and get notified the moment new listings go live.
Browse current openingsRelated guides
Frequently asked questions
When do degree apprenticeship applications open?▾
Most large employers open in September–November. Google, GCHQ, KPMG, PwC, EY, and Deloitte typically open in September or October. Engineering and technology employers (BT, Capgemini, Siemens) open January–March. NHS and Civil Service roles are often rolling throughout the year.
How early should I start preparing?▾
Start preparing at least 6–12 months before the application window opens — ideally in Year 12 or equivalent. Research employers, attend open days, practise aptitude tests, and prepare your personal statement well in advance. The most competitive programmes fill within weeks of opening.
Do applications close before A level results?▾
Yes — most employers accept applications before A level results are known and make conditional offers. Results are confirmed after results day in August. Some rolling programmes continue accepting applications through spring and summer.
Which programmes open first?▾
September openers are typically the largest and most competitive employers: Google, GCHQ, the Big Four (PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY), and major City law firms. Apply as soon as applications open for these — some programmes fill within 2–4 weeks.
What if I miss a deadline?▾
Look for employers with rolling applications (NHS, Civil Service) and set up job alerts on Apprentice Wizard. If you miss all windows for the current year, use the time to strengthen your application — gain work experience, improve aptitude test scores, and apply early the following year.
