Can you get an apprenticeship with no qualifications?

Yes, many apprenticeships don't ask for any qualifications. Among the employers we've researched, Aldi, Tesco, Balfour Beatty, the British Army and others say some or all of their programmes need none. If you're 16 to 18 in England, you'll usually work towards English and maths during the apprenticeship instead.

Apprenticeships that need no qualifications: 7 employers we've researched
Employer Programme What the employer says
Aldi UK Retail and logistics Career Starter store and warehouse apprenticeships No qualifications needed. The Store Management route asks for GCSE maths and English at grade 4.
Tesco Retail and logistics Stronger Starts Retail Apprenticeship No GCSEs or experience needed. Starts on £23,662 (pro rata).
Balfour Beatty Construction and infrastructure Intermediate apprenticeships No formal qualifications required, though some trade roles may need an aptitude test.
British Army Public services Most Army apprenticeships No entry requirements for most roles, but you must reach Level 2 English and maths by the end.
London Fire Brigade Public services Level 3 Operational Firefighter apprenticeship No specific qualifications required. You need to be 17 and a half and have a full driving licence.
SSE Energy and utilities Entry-level apprenticeships SSE says most entry-level roles don't need any qualifications, because it assesses your strengths.
Barratt Redrow Construction and infrastructure Bricklaying and site carpentry trade apprenticeship GCSE maths and English at grade 4 are ideal, but not essential.

This list only includes employers that say on their own pages that qualifications aren't needed. Requirements can differ between programmes and change each year, so always check the employer's page before you apply.

See also: Apprenticeships without GCSEs · What to do if you didn't get the grades