Putting together a job application might seem like a big task – especially if this is the first time you are doing it. But there really is only one secret ingredient to remember when you decide to apply for a degree apprenticeship – or any role for that matter. Stay organised.
With the potential of your future career riding on the outcome (no pressure!) it’s well worth making sure you take the time and do some research on degree apprenticeships so you can put together a truly winning application.
We’ve put together this short guide to help you on your way. Ready? Let’s go!
What you’ll need to include
When you apply for a degree apprenticeship, it is important to highlight the passion, skills, experience, and qualifications that make you the best candidate for the role.
Different programs will ask for different things, but you are generally expected to provide the following:
- A professional CV
- A cover letter outlining why you’re the ideal candidate
- Potentially 1-2 pages addressing any relevant selection criteria
- Relevant academic transcripts or qualification certificates
- At least two references
Our employer partners including Capgemini, Jaguar Land Rover, Atkins and Kier Group offer early careers sections, providing information about what to expect from the application process too, so make sure you take a look! Alternatively, you could make things easier and find out all the relevant entry requirements via the Springpod network — easy-peasy.
What happens after you apply for a degree apprenticeship?
If your initial application is successful, there will likely be one or two next steps before the employer and/or university/training provider make a decision. This does vary but it could include one or more of the following:
- A face-to-face or video interview with relevant employer
- Attending a group assessment day with other candidates
- A work trial to see how you fit with the team
- Delivering a presentation
- Online assessments, such as Psychometric tests to see how you respond to different scenarios
It’s a good idea to research what each of these might involve and don’t wait until you’re officially invited for an interview before you start practicing! The more practice you do the better.
If you’re successful at getting to the next stage, you’ll be provided with full details of what to expect and anything you need to prepare. Make sure you read these instructions carefully and reach out to the early careers team if you have any questions.
How to stand out from the competition
Degree apprenticeships are still a new area, which does mean there are fewer available and competition can be tough. If you’ve decided this is the right path for you, then that determination will definitely come in handy but a few other things that will help include:
- Completing some relevant work experience
- Finding an industry mentor
- Focusing on your studies to get the grades
- Building your skills through extracurricular hobbies
- Attending university and employer open days to find out more
And our biggest tip?
It’s one thing to say you’re really passionate but if you don’t really know or understand the industry, how passionate can you be?
Our friends at Google sum it up pretty well:
“We look for passion in the area they are applying for as well as a true understanding of the opportunity, as doing an apprenticeship is not the easiest option and the person has to do their research and make sure it’s what suits their learning style best.”
Maya Tudor
Global Apprenticeships Specialist, Google
So our biggest tip? Don’t just say it, show some Passion!
If you’re still not convinced or need more information before applying, why not take a look at our exclusive degree apprenticeships guide. It may just be the resource you need right now.