Degree Apprenticeship Salaries Explained

One of the biggest draws of a degree apprenticeship is that you get paid to learn. But how much can you actually expect to earn, and what affects your salary? Here's what you need to know.

You earn a real salary

Unlike university students, degree apprentices are employees. That means you receive a regular salary, holiday pay, and workplace benefits — while your tuition is fully funded. You graduate with no student debt.

What affects your pay?

Salaries vary widely depending on:

• Industry — technology, finance, and law tend to pay the most.
• Location — roles in London usually pay more to reflect living costs.
• Employer size — large corporations often offer higher starting salaries.
• Level — Level 6 (bachelor's) and Level 7 (master's) apprenticeships differ.

The minimum you'll earn

There is a legal apprentice minimum wage, but the vast majority of degree apprenticeships pay well above it. Many programmes start between £18,000 and £24,000, with the most competitive technology and finance roles paying considerably more.

Pay progression

Your salary typically rises each year as you gain skills and take on more responsibility. By the time you finish, many apprentices are earning close to — or the same as — graduate hires, but with years of experience already behind them.

Compare real roles

Every listing on DAPS shows the advertised salary where the employer discloses it. Search apprenticeships and sort by salary to see what's on offer across the market.