When to apply for apprenticeships: key dates and deadlines

An apprenticeship is a mix of hands-on work to practise skills, and a programme of learning that boosts career prospects. Although it shares similarities with T Levels, it isn’t structured to fit around the schedule of schools and colleges.

Find out more about application deadlines and start times with our guide.

When do apprenticeships start?

There is no set time of year or fixed date when apprenticeships start. Each apprenticeship has its own start date based on the recruitment process, availability of the successful candidate, and the employer’s capacity.

Apprenticeships don’t work to the schedule of schools and colleges so there is no academic year to consider. But because employers receive more financial support with costs when the apprentice is aged 16-18, recruitment drives for younger workers do tend to line up with the end of the typical academic year when the candidate has left full-time education, for starts in September.

Do apprentices have to be new employees?

Employers don’t have to hire brand new workers as apprentices. Current employees can take on an apprenticeship as a suitable route for career development. It may mean changes to their responsibilities and schedule so they can fit in their required learning time of at least 20% of normal working hours.

When do employers start hiring apprentices?

There isn’t a hard and fast rule on what time of year apprenticeships are offered. Employers who recognise the benefits of working to train apprentices and help to develop their skills towards a qualification might opt for one of these when recruiting:

Apprenticeship recruitment drives

Larger employers that are committed to hiring apprentices might run a recruitment process on an annual basis for multiple roles across their business. Candidates could apply for a place during their final year of academic study, and go through the application process alongside exams. Just like college or university, their place on the scheme might rely on their results.

Filling a job vacancy

When an employer recognises a skills gap within the business, whether due to retirement or potential growth in a new business area, an apprenticeship offers a solution as and when a job vacancy arises. An apprentice can join the company and help to define the offering by carrying on n existing capability or growing into a new one.

National Apprenticeship Week

Held each year in February, National Apprenticeship Week is when employers, apprentices, and training providers collaborate to share their experiences of an apprenticeship. This is a good time for employers to recruit as the positive message will be fresh in the minds of someone thinking about their next step.

The next National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 8 - 14 February 2027.

When do I apply for an apprenticeship?

Because apprenticeships aren’t restricted to one fixed duration or season, there’ll almost always be an opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship in whatever industry appeals. Always keep an eye out for these opportunities on job listings websites as well as the official UK Government apprenticeships website:

Find an apprenticeship - GOV.UK

Look out for more apprenticeship how-tos and guides from EAL on the Learner Hub.