Major Funding Change for Level 7 Apprenticeships: What It Means for Learners and Employers

A significant government funding change is set to reshape the landscape of higher-level apprenticeships and it could have far-reaching implications for both learners and employers.

From January 2026, under currently proposed changes, government funding for Level 7 apprenticeships (equivalent to a Master’s degree) will no longer be available to most learners aged 22 and above. Those already enrolled will continue to be funded until they complete their training, but new starts after this date will be subject to the new rules.

The change is part of a government strategy to redirect investment towards younger people, with the aim of improving early career prospects and tackling youth unemployment.

Why is this change happening?

Level 7 apprenticeships have grown rapidly in recent years, offering a debt-free alternative to traditional postgraduate routes. However, government data shows that a large proportion of learners on these programmes are over 25, particularly in high-cost areas such as law, healthcare, and leadership.

By refocusing funding on younger learners, the government hopes to widen access to early career training. But for employers and professionals who rely on Level 7 apprenticeships to upskill, reskill, or progress into leadership roles, the implications could be serious.

Who will be most affected?

The impact will be felt most strongly in sectors where Level 7 apprenticeships are used for career progression rather than entry routes — including:

• Leadership and management (Senior Leader, Operations Manager)

• Digital and technology (AI Data Specialist, Digital Product Manager)

• Professional services (Chartered Town Planner, Senior People Professional)

• Law and healthcare (Solicitor, Advanced Clinical Practitioner)

Public sector organisations such as the NHS and local councils, which rely heavily on Level 7 apprenticeships to develop senior staff and specialist expertise, may face additional pressure to fill critical roles without access to funded training routes.

What this means for social mobility

Level 7 apprenticeships have provided a vital, tuition-free pathway to high-level qualifications, particularly for those from non-traditional backgrounds. According to government data, 85% of Level 7 accountancy and tax apprentices come from state schools. Removing funding for adults risks reversing progress on social mobility and diversity in leadership — areas apprenticeships have been helping to address.

Without access to funding, many aspiring professionals may struggle to afford postgraduate-level training, and employers could find it harder to develop the talent pipelines they need for future growth.

What can learners and employers do now?

If you’re considering a Level 7 apprenticeship — or planning to offer one — act soon. Programs that start before January 2026 will still be eligible for funding under current rules, so it’s worth starting conversations early.

Learners and employers should also explore alternative development pathways, such as:

• Level 6 apprenticeships

• Professional qualifications or Chartered Institute routes

• In-house learning and development programmes

• Funded Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities

Our view at Everything Apprenticeships

At Everything Apprenticeships, we believe in lifelong learning and accessible progression routes - not just for school leavers, but for professionals at every stage of their career.

While this policy aims to support younger learners, it also highlights the need for more flexible funding models that recognise the realities of modern career journeys - especially for those returning to education later in life or changing professions.

We’ll continue to keep employers and apprentices informed as more details emerge, and we’ll be working with our partners to identify the best ways to maintain access to high-quality training and professional development for all.

👣 Next Steps

If a Level 7 apprenticeship is part of your career or workforce plan:

1. Speak to us about options to start before January 2026.

2. Explore alternatives — we can help you identify funded routes that align with your goals.

3. Stay informed — sign up for updates on government policy changes affecting apprenticeships.

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