Eligibility
Check your eligibility for a funded AI apprenticeship
The Level 4 AI & Automation Practitioner apprenticeship is open to more people than most expect. There’s no degree requirement, no coding background needed, and no upper age limit. Here’s exactly who qualifies, and how to confirm it in a quick call.
Who is eligible
To do this apprenticeship, you need to meet a small set of standard requirements. Most people in employment already do.
- ✓You’re employed in the UK
You need to be in a job with a UK employer. The apprenticeship is a way to build new skills within your existing role, so employment is the main requirement.
- ✓Your employer supports it
Because the funding is arranged through your employer, you need their agreement and some dedicated learning time in your week. If they’re not signed up yet, we help you approach them.
- ✓You’ll spend enough time in the role
The apprenticeship runs for around 14 months, so you should expect to stay in a relevant role for the duration.
- ✓You have the right to work and have lived in the UK/EEA
Standard residency and right-to-work rules apply, in line with government apprenticeship funding requirements. An advisor confirms this with you.
Not sure whether you tick every box? That’s exactly what the callback is for. The quickest way to know for certain is to send your details below, and an advisor will confirm your eligibility and answer any questions. There’s no obligation.
What you do not need
A lot of people rule themselves out before they need to. To be clear, this apprenticeship does not require any of the following:
- ✕A degree or university background
Level 4 is equivalent to the first year of university, and you earn it through the apprenticeship itself. No prior degree is needed.
- ✕Coding or technical experience
This is a practical, business-focused programme. It suits people from administration, operations, HR, customer service, marketing and similar backgrounds. No programming skills required.
- ✕To be under a certain age
There is no upper age limit on apprenticeships. Whether you’re 24 or 54, if you’re employed and meet the criteria, you can apply.
- ✕To pay any tuition fees
Course fees are fully funded for eligible learners through the apprenticeship funding system. You pay nothing and keep your salary. See our funding guide for how that works.
“I’m too senior for an apprenticeship”
Apprenticeships are widely used to upskill experienced staff, not just new starters. The qualification is about new skills in AI and automation, at any career stage.
“My employer would never go for it”
Most employers find the training is largely or fully funded and delivers value during the programme. We help you make exactly that case.
Eligibility FAQs
Is there an age limit?
No. There is no upper age limit for apprenticeships in England. As long as you are employed and meet the other criteria, your age does not affect your eligibility.
Can I do it if I already have a degree?
Yes, in most cases. Apprenticeships can be used to gain substantial new skills even if you hold existing qualifications, provided the apprenticeship teaches you something materially new. An advisor can confirm your specific situation.
What if I’m not employed right now?
Apprenticeship funding is arranged through an employer, so you do need to be employed to start. If you’re between roles, it’s worth applying once you’re in a suitable job, and we can talk through your options.
Does my employer have to pay?
Most or all of the training cost is covered by government apprenticeship funding. Depending on your employer’s size, they may contribute a share, but for the learner there are no tuition fees. Our funding guide explains the detail.
How quickly will I know if I qualify?
Send your details and an advisor will usually call within one working day to confirm your eligibility on the spot and answer any questions.