This is our own independent research from public sources. The employer hasn't reviewed, paid for or approved it.
Key figures
- Apprenticeship schemes, across engineering, logistics, medical and more
- 39+
- Source: British Army (opens in a new tab)
Overview
The British Army is one of the UK’s biggest apprenticeship providers. When you join as a soldier, your apprenticeship is built into your Initial Trade Training, so you learn job-ready skills from day one while earning a full soldier’s salary.
The levels
| Level | Equivalent to | Typical length |
|---|---|---|
| 2 (intermediate) | Five good GCSEs or National 5s | 12–18 months |
| 3 (advanced) | Two A levels, Highers or a T Level | 18–36 months |
| 4 (higher) | A foundation degree | Varies |
| 6–7 | Degree or master’s degree | Later in your career |
There are more than 39 schemes across engineering, logistics, medical, intelligence and more, and over 13,000 apprentices are enrolled.
English and maths
You don’t need GCSEs to start. If you haven’t got GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above, the Army helps you gain Level 1 literacy and numeracy as part of a Level 2 apprenticeship. For Level 3 and 4 you need to reach Level 2 English and maths by the end.
Think it through
You’re joining the Army, not just starting an apprenticeship, so make sure military life suits you. The apprenticeship you do depends on your Army role.
What they do
The British Army defends the UK and its interests. Its apprenticeships are built into soldiers' Initial Trade Training, in areas from engineering and logistics to medical and intelligence roles.
Apprenticeships they offer
-
Intermediate apprenticeships
The starting point for most soldiers
Equivalent to five good GCSEs. If you don't have GCSE English and maths, the Army helps you gain Level 1 literacy and numeracy as part of it.
-
Advanced apprenticeships
More technical trades
No entry requirements, but you must reach Level 2 English and maths by the end.
-
Higher apprenticeships
Some trades on joining, others later in service
Level 4, like a foundation degree. Level 6 and 7 apprenticeships, such as leadership and management, are available later in your career.
Career areas
Entry requirements
- Level 3 and 4
- No entry requirements, but you must achieve Level 2 English and maths (GCSE 9–4 or National 5 A–C equivalent) by the end. From the Army's apprenticeships page.
Who can apply
- You join the Army as a soldier first: the apprenticeship is part of your training and role.
Our tips for British Army
- You're paid a full soldier's salary, not an apprentice wage, so compare the Army's pay with other apprenticeships.
- The apprenticeship you do depends on your Army role, so research roles first.
- Remember you're joining the Army, not just doing an apprenticeship: think carefully about whether military life suits you.
Summary
- Over 13,000 soldiers are doing an apprenticeship, and 90% of soldiers start one.
- There are more than 39 schemes from Level 2 to Level 4, with Level 6 and 7 later in your career.
- You're paid a full soldier's salary, not an apprentice wage.
- You don't need GCSEs to start: the Army helps you gain English and maths qualifications.
Questions about British Army apprenticeships
Do you get an apprenticeship in the Army?
Most soldiers do: the Army says 90% start an apprenticeship, built into their training. Over 13,000 are currently enrolled across more than 39 schemes.
How much do Army apprentices get paid?
You're paid a full soldier's salary, not an apprentice wage, which the Army says is far more than most apprenticeship schemes offer.
Do you need GCSEs for an Army apprenticeship?
No. If you don't have GCSE English and maths, the Army helps you gain Level 1 literacy and numeracy as part of a Level 2 apprenticeship. Read our guide to apprenticeships without GCSEs.
Can you get a degree in the Army?
Yes, later in your career. The Army offers Level 6 and 7 apprenticeships, such as leadership and management, as you progress.
Sources and review
Last reviewed . Details can change after this date, so check the official source before you rely on them.