What is an Apprenticeship equivalent to?
Apprenticeship levels work slightly differently to typical academic levels, which is why people often want to know what an apprenticeship level is equivalent to.
Apprenticeship levels are ranked in terms of ‘intermediate’, ‘advanced’, ‘higher’ and ‘degree’ levels, each with a corresponding level number or numbers:
| Name | Level | Equivalent Educational Level |
| Intermediate | 2 | GCSE |
| Advanced | 3 | A Level |
| Higher | 4,5, 6 and 7 | Foundation degree and above |
| Degree | 6 and 7 | Bachelor's or master's degree |
Intermediate Apprenticeships
Intermediate apprenticeships are the same as five GCSE passes. Once you have achieved your immediate apprenticeship qualification you are able to progress onto an advanced apprenticeship.
Advanced Apprenticeships
Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A-Levels, specifically two A-Level passes. In order to apply for an advanced apprenticeship, you either need to have completed your intermediate level apprenticeships or you need to have 5 GCSE’s at a grade C or above.
Higher Apprenticeships
Higher Apprenticeships are equivalent to an NVQ Level 4 or a foundation degree and they allow you to progress into a degree apprenticeships.
Degree Apprenticeships
Degree Apprenticeships are equivalent to a bachelor’s or, at Level 7, a master’s degree.
Apprenticeships are different to traditional academic qualifications because they combine practice and theory with a mixture of on-the-job and off-the-job training. Furthermore, unlike A-Levels or degrees, you get paid while you train.
Who can apply for an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are not just for school leavers, they can be undertaken by anyone, at any point in your career, and you can do an apprenticeship even if you already have a degree or another form of further education qualification. All apprentices earn whilst they learn, regardless of your level, however some apprenticeships may require additional funding.
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