How Hard Is It? - The Application Process
- Nicholas Bright
- Feb 4
- 2 min read

1. The Application
Apprenticeships:
The application process for apprenticeships can be akin to navigating a labyrinth. Unlike traditional university applications with fixed deadlines, apprenticeship opportunities arise throughout the year. Aspiring apprentices must stay vigilant and continuously search and applying from autumn onwards to avoid missing out on suitable openings!
The lack of a standardized application time or method can be perplexing and catches a multitude of people out.
Degree Apprenticeships:
Degree apprenticeships, which combine work and study, follow a more structured yet multifaceted recruitment process. Here’s what applicants might encounter:
Application Submission: Applicants submit their applications online, often through company portals. This initial step involves crafting a compelling CV and cover letter.
Online Tests: Many employers administer online assessments to evaluate candidates’ skills, aptitude, and compatibility with the role.
Telephone Interviews: Shortlisted applicants may face telephone interviews to assess their communication skills, motivation, and suitability for the apprenticeship.
Assessment Days or Face-to-Face Interviews: The final stage often involves attending an assessment day or face-to-face interview. Here, candidates showcase their abilities, interact with potential colleagues, and demonstrate their commitment to the apprenticeship.
2. The Scary Statistics
While there’s no shortage of apprenticeship opportunities, the competition remains fierce. According to recent data, the number of apprenticeship starts in the UK has been steadily increasing, with over 300,000 new apprenticeships in the last year alone.
However, this surge in demand means that securing a spot can be challenging. With the number of applicants on the rise, the odds of landing your dream apprenticeship become slimmer. Most of the top companies only offer a handful of positions, and thousands of people compete to get those positions with some degree apprenticeships having a meagre acceptance rate of 1%> which is a scary stat!
3. What Can We Do To Help
Why Bright Apprenticeships?
Bright Apprenticeships serves as a beacon for aspiring apprentices. Here’s how it can benefit applicants:
Comprehensive Information: The platform not only offers 3 in depth courses about CVs, cover letters and interview skills, but the free blog gives aspiring apprentices an insight into various apprenticeship opportunities at any level. Applicants can explore different paths in different fields and find the right fit.
Guidance on Application Preparation: Bright Apprenticeships provides advice, hints, and tips to prepare for the application and interview process. Whether it’s creating a standout CV or acing an interview, applicants can access valuable resources.
Applying for apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships requires diligence, adaptability, and reliable guidance. Bright Apprenticeships offers a wealth of information and support, empowering applicants to navigate the complexities of the process and embark on a rewarding journey toward their chosen career path.
Remember, whether you’re aiming for an early years apprenticeship or a degree apprenticeship, the right guidance can make all the difference.
What should you do next?
If you are interested in applying to apprenticeships, we would suggest you signing up to some of our courses available on our website to prepare you best for your application to any apprenticeship.
You can press the button below to go view what we offer!
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