Universities UK responds to level 7 funding announcement

Confirmation today that the vast majority of Level 7 apprenticeships will no longer receive public funding will be disappointing news for many universities and, more importantly, employers. Universities have grown Level 7 apprenticeship provision, encouraged by government and employer and student demand. These apprenticeships have become extremely valuable to many sectors and essential public services. In 2023/24 there were 2,040 Level 7 apprenticeship starts in Health, Public Services and Care apprenticeships - a figure which has significantly grown in the last 5 years. The reality is that the NHS will need to continue to fund this training, but it will now have to be taken from existing budgets. These cuts are also yet another financial blow to universities, on top of National Insurance hikes and the proposed levy on international students

The exemption for those aged 21 and under will leave so few students on these courses eligible for funding that many will become unviable at a time when Skills England’s forecasts show we need more high-level skills in the economy. We recognise the tough fiscal choices government faces but supporting early careers need not come at the expense of upskilling and retraining the existing workforce. 

The announcement that this decision will take effect from January 2026 will provide universities with the clarity they need to plan for the year ahead. We look forward to working with government on the continued success of Level 6 degree apprenticeships and the whole package of announcements to ensure access to the skills our economy and public services need.