Myth-buster #5: Apprentices earn more than university graduates
Posted on: 8th May 2025
Apprenticeships 
Apprenticeships have long been stereotyped as serving only specific industries, providing low rates of pay and qualifications which carry less weight than university degrees.
All these assumptions could not be further from the reality of modern-day vocational training. In fact, when it comes to personal income, apprenticeships help learners to be on the front foot financially.
Apprentices in their 20s are likely to earn more than university graduates
That’s according to the London School of Economics, which found young people who study an apprenticeship can earn between £1,000 to £7,000 more a year – without the additional weight of student debt.
It’s a statistic businesses can use to their advantage when looking to invest in young apprentices who might not be aware of the true power of vocational training.
We explore the topic in our fifth myth-busting blog below.
Debunking the myth
Research from the London School of Economics’ Centre of Vocational Education Research found those aged 26 with a Level 4 qualification had higher earnings than degree holders.
- Women aged 26 with a Level 4 qualification can expect to earn £21,300 per year.
- Women aged 26 that have graduated from university average £20,500.
The findings clearly demonstrate apprenticeships delivered in their modern format provide a proven career pathway to help young people accelerate their careers by acquiring skills, knowledge and behaviours attached to their role.
You can find out more about the findings here.
Career progression
In our most recent myth-busting blog, we learnt 69 per cent of businesses said by employing apprentices and investing in the future of their workforce they have boosted staff retention.
A positive work-life balance, fair pay and career development opportunities are all valued by employees.
So, showcase how apprenticeships today are helping people to accelerate their careers! This applies to young people beginning their careers, and senior colleagues considering a career change.
“Fantastic value”
Above everything, apprenticeships must primarily work for the employer and deliver value to a business and its operation.
Government research has found apprenticeships are proven to create a more motivated workforce, boost retention and improve quality of service.
Justin Merritt, CEO of Ignite Training, said: “Apprenticeships deliver fantastic value to both the employee and employer.
“They equip colleagues with skills and experiences relevant to their roles, all while fast-tracking career development and enhancing job satisfaction.
“Post-pandemic research from the London School of Economics demonstrates that apprenticeships are no longer the poor relation for school leavers seeking their next step in education.
“Times have changed and apprenticeships provide so many excellent opportunities for people of all ages to develop fulfilling careers and build on existing skillsets.”
Catch-up!
Did you miss any of our previous myth-busting articles? If so, you can view them below!
Myth-buster #1: Apprenticeships are open to ALL staff, new and existing!
Myth-buster #2: Training is funded and comes at no cost to the employer!
Myth-buster #3: Average age of an apprentice revealed!
Myth-buster #4: Apprenticeships help to boost staff retention
For further information about our apprenticeship standards at Ignite Training, click here.
