Do you have to pay for an Apprenticeship? Funding Explained
In the UK, apprentices do not pay for their training or end-point assessments—costs are covered by government funding and employer contributions.
Thinking of starting an apprenticeship and wondering about the costs? Good news: as an apprentice in the UK, you don’t pay anything for your apprenticeship training or final assessment. Here’s how apprenticeship funding works and what this means for you and your employer.
Do apprentices pay for apprenticeship courses or end-point assessments?
No - If you are aged under 22 (or 21 and in your first year of the apprenticeship) , your apprenticeship training and assessment fees are fully funded by the government. For apprentices aged 22 or older (age 22+ when you start the apprenticeship), funding still covers most of your training (95% government funded) and employers pay a 5% contribution, meaning apprentices never have to pay out of their own pocket.
Who pays for apprenticeship training?
Apprenticeship funding is shared between the government and employers. For businesses with a wage bill over £3 million, the business will pay into the Apprenticeship Levy which can then be used to pay for apprenticeship training through their Digital Apprenticeship Account (DAS). Small and Medium Enterprise employers (SME's) typically pay just 5% of the total training cost, with the government covering the remaining 95%, for apprentices aged 22+.
What’s included in the funding?
Funding covers your tuition, off-the-job training, workplace learning, and the end-point assessment costs needed to complete your apprenticeship. Apprentices are also paid a salary by their employer, for the length of their apprenticeship, which is not covered by the apprenticeship funding.
Are there any hidden fees or costs for apprentices?
No—apprentices should never pay for their apprenticeship training, materials, registration, or exams. If extra costs arise (for example, specialist equipment or travel), your training provider or employer will explain any support available.
In the UK, students and employees never pay apprenticeship fees—funding is provided by the government and employers. Apprenticeship funding covers all training, assessment, and qualification costs, making apprenticeships a worry-free way to earn and learn.
Interested in starting an apprenticeship or need more guidance on funding? Contact South Hampshire College Group for free, friendly advice about apprenticeship costs and support.
01329 815200