Competition for degree apprenticeships quadruples in three years

The competition for degree apprenticeships in England has surged dramatically over the last three years, increasing fourfold according to data obtained by the BBC. Degree apprenticeships, which combine a paid university degree with a salary, have become increasingly appealing as students and families grapple with the rising costs associated with traditional university education. Despite this heightened interest, the availability of these apprenticeships has declined sharply, intensifying the struggle for applicants.

Recent figures reveal that applications submitted through the government’s official Find An Apprenticeship platform have nearly tripled, jumping from 8,100 to 21,800. Meanwhile, the number of apprenticeship places offered fell from 7,300 to just 3,700 in the same period. This growing disparity means that many hopeful candidates are applying to university as a backup option, citing fierce competition and reduced hiring by employers who face economic uncertainties and rising employment costs. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has responded by affirming its support for employers engaging young apprentices through incentives and funding measures.

The data also shows that the ratio of applications to available Level 6 (degree-level) apprenticeship positions has escalated from 2.8 applicants per vacancy in 2023-24 to 11.3 in the current academic year. Similar upward trends exist for Level 4 and 5 apprenticeships, equivalent to the early years of an undergraduate degree, with applications per place climbing from 3.6 to 10.6. However, the statistics only reflect apprenticeships advertised on the government’s platform in England, as many employers recruit via other channels. Oliver Sidwell, director of the alternative apprenticeship platform HigherIn, noted an 80% rise in searches for degree apprenticeships this year, and although employer postings increased, demand continues to outpace supply.

Applicants’ experiences highlight the challenges faced in securing these coveted roles. Kieran McRae, who did not secure a degree apprenticeship, opted to study computer science at the University of Birmingham alongside successful apprenticeship candidates. He described a mixture of envy and appreciation, recognizing the value of earning a free degree with a salary but ultimately grateful for similar industry experience offered within his course. Meanwhile, Anna Helder, having applied for 35 different apprenticeships before securing a project management role, described the application process as “overwhelming” due to its drawn-out and unpredictable nature. Daniel Edwards, who applied for 11 degree apprenticeships prior to success, contrasted the complexity of the apprenticeship application—requiring tailored cover letters

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