Finance Degree Apprenticeships

What do you do on a finance degree apprenticeship?

On a finance degree apprenticeship, you'll split your time between university classes and workplace training. You'll gain practical skills working on actual projects, from month-end reporting to vendor negotiations, all while progressing toward your university qualification. There are so many avenues you can take, too. Some types of finance degree apprenticeships are:

• Business analyst

• Data analyst

• Auditor 

• Financial services professional

• Investment operations specialist.

Most finance apprenticeships lead to professional qualifications like AAT, ACA (more on this later), or CIMA, depending on your specific programme, and you'll work alongside experienced finance professionals who'll mentor you through real projects.

Some of your tasks and responsibilities can include:

• Analysing financial data and preparing reports

• Supporting budget planning and forecasting

• Learning how to use accounting software (Fintech)

• Assisting with audits and financial compliance checks

• Keeping up to date with industry trends and best practices.

The best part? You'll graduate with years of valuable experience already on your CV and get paid a full-time salary while doing it. And NO tuition fees.

You can read more on the benefits of an apprenticeship below.

What are ACA apprenticeships?

ACA-accredited apprenticeships offer a powerful pathway into the world of finance and accounting, giving you a professional qualification alongside real workplace experience. 

With an ACA qualification - also known as the ICAEW Chartered Accountant qualification - you'll join a global community of professionals. That's a lot of potential mentors and connections for your future career!

You'll sit exams and carry out practical work experience as a part of your degree apprenticeship, enabling you to qualify as a chartered accountant by the end of your apprenticeship - years before your university-attending peers.

To be eligible, you'll have to choose a finance degree apprenticeship that's with an ICAEW-approved employer. Most will highlight this in their job descriptions.

Here's what one degree apprentice thought of their time with Forvis Mazars:

Wondering what apprenticeship life is really like? Hear directly from degree apprentices about their day-to-day experiences.

What are the entry requirements for a finance degree apprenticeship?

For a degree apprenticeship, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and have the following:

• Five GCSEs at grade 4-9 (A*-C), including maths and english

• Three A-Levels at specific grades and associated UCAS points 

• A Level 3-5 apprenticeship.

Remember, requirements will vary between employers and programmes, so always check the job description for the apprenticeships you're interested in.

Having the entry requirements is great, but skills are what will make your applications shine. Soft skills are everything, and you have lots of them. Here are some of the skills employers want to see in their candidates:

• Problem solving

• Attention to detail

• Critical thinking

• Collaboration

• Adaptability. 

Now that you know what it takes to get your foot in the door, you're probably wondering how much you could earn as a finance apprentice. Read on to find out.

How much do finance degree apprentices earn?

How much you earn will depend on your employer. However, as a degree finance apprentice, you could earn around £30,000 per year.

Once you’re fully qualified, your salary could increase to around £40,000 per year. And there’s room for even more growth the more experienced you become.

It’s important to remember that your role won’t just include your salary. You’ll have some really cool benefits that other employees will have. This will include your holiday pay (usually around 24-30 days a year) and profit-related bonuses. You could also receive perks such as:

• A gym membership

• Private healthcare

• Travel allowances

• Discounts at local stores.

Remember to always read the job description carefully, as some employers might pay less or more than the average. If you’re unsure, you can always ask!

Ready to apply for a finance degree apprenticeship? Grand! We’ll show you how next.

How to apply

Finance employers recruit throughout the year. Keep your eyes peeled all year round so amazing opportunities don't slip through your fingers.

You’ll need to begin by writing a CV and cover letter. If your CV and cover letter impress, you’ll be invited to an apprenticeship assessment centre where you’ll take part in group activities, numerical and psychometric tests and an interview.

TOP TIP: Always tailor your CV for each job you apply for; not all apprenticeships look for the same skills. An employer will know if you’ve recycled a CV.

If you’re worried about your experience, it’s okay. We’re here to let you know that employers aren’t looking for the most knowledgeable. They’re looking for candidates who have a genuine interest in the role.  Are you part of a maths club? Did you do a week of work experience at your local church counting donations? Let employers know!

Check out all our application advice, where you'll find everything from creating a standout CV to acing your assessment centre and interviews. Click below to get started.