If you are currently thinking about a higher or degree apprenticeship as your next career step, November/December is the time to start applying for vacancies (for September 2024) 

Apply for several opportunities as the competition is going to be  intense. Most of the organisations  you are applying to will have a section on their website on how the recruitment process works. It is really important to read this information,  as it will help you to be more prepared, understand their culture and how you will be a good fit within their organisation – this will help you to achieve success.

The application process is more complex than applying to  university and is a much more in-depth process than most general job vacancies or lower-level apprenticeships. It usually involves several steps including online assessments, a telephone interview, and an assessment day which includes an individual interview.

The reason organisations are stringent with the recruitment process is that they are investing substantial funding (no tuition fees for you!), time and energy into developing you to become the future of their organisation and they need to identify early talent in young professionals, specialists and technicians.

You will  also need to be open-minded about location. Often these apprenticeships will be away from home  and you will need to find accommodation locally. Often the company will be able to support you with this and will link you with other apprentices. You will also earn a salary which hopefully will cover your living costs, unlike university where you will most likely need a maintenance loan to cover these costs.

If however the application process hasn’t started yet, make sure that  you register your interest  with companies you want to work for. They may also have a  Facebook page for apprenticeships. Ensure that you also set up email alerts on all the other websites which have new opportunities coming up regularly.