Apprenticeship Wages: How Much Do Apprentices Get Paid?

How much do apprentices really get paid — and how can employers make the most of apprenticeship wages?

From April 2026, the National Minimum Wage apprentice rate in the UK is £8.00 per hour. However, this rate can change depending on an apprentice’s age and how long they’ve been in their apprenticeship.

Whether you're thinking about starting an apprenticeship or you're an employer looking to bring an apprentice on board, understanding pay rates is essential.

In this guide, we break down 2026 apprenticeship wages, including the legal minimums, when higher pay applies, and how earnings can grow over time. We’ll also share tips for employers on how competitive pay can attract and retain motivated apprentices.

Do apprentices only get a minimum wage?  

Employers must pay apprentices at least the legal minimum apprenticeship wage.

However, many employers choose to pay more than the minimum rate. Offering higher wages can:

• Improve recruitment
• Increase loyalty and retention
• Support apprentices’ financial wellbeing during training

Research from the Low Pay Commission has also shown that higher wages can help employers attract stronger candidates and improve completion rates.

Apprentices minimum wage in 2026

From April 2026, the minimum apprentice wage is:

• £8.00 per hour

This rate applies if the apprentice is:

• Under 19, or
• 19 or older and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Example

A 21-year-old apprentice in the first year of their apprenticeship can legally be paid the apprentice minimum rate of £8.00 per hour.

Once an apprentice turns 19 and completes the first year of their apprenticeship, they must receive the minimum wage for their age group.

The 2026 National Minimum Wage rates are:

Learn more: Do Employers Get Paid for Having an Apprentice? 

How can an apprentice earn more money?  

Some companies opt to pay their apprentices the national living wage for their age bracket (or more) in order to attract top-tier talent. This allows workers to maintain a comfortable lifestyle during their training and increases the likelihood that they'll stay with the company once their apprenticeship is complete.  

Some employers offer higher wages to older or more experienced apprentices, especially if they are bringing valuable skills or previous work experience to the role. Apprentices might also earn more in industries that are in high demand or where competition for talent is strong. 
It’s okay to try negotiating your salary - particularly if you’re taking on extra responsibility or consistently performing well. Just make sure you’ve proven your value first. 

That said, remember: your apprenticeship is a stepping stone. It’s your foot in the door to the industry you want to build a career in. Most apprenticeships last around a year, so even if the pay isn’t high right now, you're gaining skills, qualifications, and contacts that can set you up for much better pay in the future. 

Do higher-paying apprenticeships exist?   

Yes, higher-paying apprenticeships are available. Some apprenticeship programmes offer higher starting salaries, particularly in professional services and technical sectors.

For example, large employers in finance and consulting offer professional services apprenticeships that combine paid employment with industry-recognised qualifications.

Some examples of some larger top institutions that work with apprentices are:

• PwC
• EY
• KPMG
• Deloitte

Their apprenticeship programmes often provide:

• competitive salaries
• funded professional qualifications
• clear progression pathways

Overall, there are a number of factors that influence an apprentice's wage. Whether you're just starting out in the workforce or looking to change careers, it's important to do your research and explore all your options when it comes to apprenticeship wages. With the right training and work ethic, you can build a successful career and earn an impressive salary in your field.  

Apprenticeship conditions and rights 

All apprentices must:

• Be working towards an approved apprenticeship standard
• Be employed in a genuine job role
• Complete a programme that lasts at least 12 months

These rules are set by the Department for Education and form part of the apprenticeship funding rules for England.

Do I get paid during apprenticeship training?  

Yes. Apprentices must be paid for all time spent training as part of their apprenticeship.

Training can take place:

• at the workplace
• at a college or training provider
•  online

Following apprenticeship reforms introduced from August 2025, each apprenticeship standard specifies the minimum number of training hours required, replacing the previous universal 20% rule in many cases.

Are my employee rights different as an apprentice?  

Apprentices have the same employment rights as other employees.

This includes:

• paid holiday
• statutory sick pay
• rest breaks and working time protections
• workplace benefits where offered
• access to mentoring or support programmes

These rights are protected under the Employment Rights Act 1996 and the Working Time Regulations 1998.

Final thoughts on apprenticeship wages

Apprenticeship wages can vary depending on several factors, including:

• the type of apprenticeship
• the industry
• the employer
• the apprentice’s age and experience

While the minimum apprentice wage in 2026 is £8.00 per hour, many apprentices earn more than this and may receive pay increases as they progress.

Apprenticeships offer a valuable pathway into skilled careers — combining paid work, recognised qualifications, and real industry experience.

Choose Total People as your apprenticeship provider 

Looking to start your career? 

At Total People, we offer apprenticeships in a wide range of industries — including construction, engineering, business, healthcare, and digital.

Whether you're leaving school or changing careers, we’ll help you find the right apprenticeship and support you every step of the way.

Hiring or developing talent? 

For employers, apprenticeships are a powerful way to build a skilled workforce.

We work with businesses across the UK to:

• recruit motivated apprentices
• deliver tailored apprenticeship training programmes
• support workforce development

Whether you're hiring new talent or upskilling your existing staff, Total People can help.

Get in touch today to see how we can support your apprenticeship journey.