The UK government has recently announced significant changes to the funding of Level 7 apprenticeships. These changes are part of a broader effort to rebalance apprenticeship funding towards younger workers and address the nation's skills gaps. As Level 7 apprenticeships are typically accessed by older or already well qualified employees, under the new policy employers will be required to fund more of their Level 7 apprenticeships outside of the levy, which has traditionally supported these programs.
In this blog post, we will explain these changes, the implications for employers and apprentices, and how you can adapt to the new funding landscape.
What is happening to Level 7 apprenticeship funding?
The UK Government is introducing age-based restrictions on funding for Level 7 Apprenticeships. Only learners aged under 22 will be eligible for funded Level 7 Apprenticeships, while learners aged 22 and over will need to self-fund or seek employer sponsorship.
When will Level 7 apprenticeships changes happen?
The funding changes take effect on 1st January 2026.
What is the current funding for Level 7 apprenticeships?
The current funding for Level 7 apprenticeships is £21,000.
What will the impact of apprenticeship changes be on current Level 7 apprentices?
We do not anticipate any change for apprentices who have enrolled and started their Level 7 apprenticeship prior to 31st December 2025. Their apprenticeship will continue to be funded as per the current arrangements.
What are my options to fund a Level 7 qualification if I’m aged under 22 after 31st December 2025?
The good news is, if you're still aged under 22 after 31st December, you'll still have the option to have a Level 7 apprenticeship funded via the levy as well as several others.
1. Government-funded Level 7 apprenticeship
How is this funded? This course is funded via the apprenticeship levy.
How long does it take? This course takes 3-3.5 years, subject to available exam sittings.
2. Combination route of government-funded Level 4 apprenticeship followed by government-funded Level 7 apprenticeship
How is this funded? Provided you are still under 22 when progressing to Level 7, both apprenticeships can be funded via the apprenticeship levy.
How long does it take? The Level 4 apprenticeship will take 15-18 months, subject to start point and End Point Assessment dates. The Level 7 apprenticeship will take an additional 18-21 months, subject to start point and available exam sittings.
3. Combination route of government-funded Level 4 apprenticeship followed by employer-funded or self-funded remaining units to complete Level 7 standards
How is this funded? The Level 4 apprenticeship portion (either AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting, ACCA Applied Knowledge Level or ICAEW Certificate Level) is funded via the apprenticeship levy. The remaining units needed to complete Level 7 standards are funded by the employer or the learner.
How long does it take? The Level 4 apprenticeship will take 15-18 months, subject to start point and End Point Assessment dates. The remaining units will take an additional 18-21 months, subject to start point and available exam sittings.
4. Fully employer-funded or self-funded Level 7 qualification (non-apprenticeship)
How is this funded? Employer or learner pays in full for the full Level 7 course.
How long does it take? This course takes 3-3.5 years, subject to available exam sittings.
5. School Leaver Package (18+ only)
How is this funded? Government-funded for all levels, depending on age at time of progression
How long does it take? This pathway takes 3-3.5 years, subject to available exam sittings.
What are my options to fund a Level 7 qualification if I’m aged 22 or over after 31st December 2025?
There are two options available for a Level 7 qualification after government funding for the apprenticeship route for those aged 22 or over is withdrawn.
1. Combination route of government-funded Level 4 apprenticeship followed by employer-funded or self-funded remaining units to complete Level 7 standards
How is this funded? The Level 4 apprenticeship portion (either AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting, ACCA Applied Knowledge Level or ICAEW Certificate Level) is funded via the apprenticeship levy. The remaining units needed to complete Level 7 standards are funded by the employer or the learner.
How long does it take? The Level 4 apprenticeship will take 15-18 months, subject to start point and End Point Assessment dates. The remaining units will take an additional 18-21 months, subject to start point and available exam sittings.
2. Fully employer-funded or self-funded Level 7 qualification (non-apprenticeship)
How is this funded? Employer or learner pays in full for the full Level 7 course.
How long does it take? This course takes 3-3.5 years, subject to available exam sittings.