2026/27 APPRENTICESHIP GUIDES5 min read

BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeships Guide 2026/27

Want a full honours degree without paying tuition fees? BAE Systems planned to take on over 1,100 apprentices in 2026, and around 94% stay on with the company.

Here’s what you’ll uncover in this guide:

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Here’s what the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship involves.

1. What are the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeships?

The BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeships are a Level 6 route lasting 4 to 5 years. You’ll combine university study with hands-on work on real projects and finish with a full honours degree, with your tuition fees paid. Roles span the following:

Engineering:

Aerospace (a five-year scheme), systems, electrical, mechanical, nuclear and manufacturing engineering, plus naval architecture.

Technology:

Cyber, software engineering, data analyst and IT consultant roles. Cyber apprentices work on technically challenging submarine projects.

Business services:

Project management, supply chain, cost estimating, project control and legal, where you’ll study towards a Level 7 solicitor qualification.

In England and Wales, you’ll need 5 GCSEs at grade 9 to 4 (A* to C), including Maths and English, plus at least 96 UCAS points. In Scotland, you’ll need 5 National 5s and 3 to 4 Highers at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Some roles also ask for a science or technical subject.

Interested in graduate or placement roles at BAE Systems? Read our full BAE Systems recruitment process guide.

2. BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship Online Application

Apply through the BAE Systems search and apply portal, choosing the role and business area that best match your interests and skills. Keep your answers clear and concise, so your strengths stand out.

BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeships open in January 2027. BAE Systems advises applying early, as roles can close once enough applications are received.

Good to Know: BAE Systems doesn’t ask for a CV for its apprenticeships. Instead, give full details of your exam grades, any work experience and relevant interests outside school or college, then check your spelling and complete every section.

After completing the online application, you will move on to the next stages of the process.

The BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship hiring process typically includes the following stages after online application:

  1. BAE Systems Virtual Assessment: gamified challenges and video questions
  2. BAE Systems Interview

Let’s check out the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship virtual assessment below.

3. BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship Online Tests

If your application is successful, BAE Systems will invite you to a virtual assessment, which includes:

Gamified assessment challenges:

These game-based assessments use short, game-like tasks to measure abilities such as memory, reasoning and attention.

Video questions:

You’ll record answers to set questions on camera, like a video interview instead of speaking to a live interviewer.

Want to try game-based assessments before the real thing? Practice with us!

BAE Systems Apprenticeships game assessment practice
BAE Systems Apprenticeships game assessment mobile practice

Read on for top tips on how to pass the online tests for the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship.

7 Top Tips to Pass the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship Online Tests

  1. Practice game-based assessments: Try similar games before your virtual assessment, so the formats feel familiar. You’ll feel calmer on the day and can focus on playing well rather than working out the rules.
  2. Rehearse video answers: Record yourself answering practice questions and watch them back. Check that you speak clearly, keep to the point and look at the camera rather than the screen.
  3. Read each game’s instructions: Every game works differently, so take a moment to understand what it asks before you begin. Rushing in can cost you marks you would otherwise have earned.
  4. Set up properly: Choose a quiet space with a reliable internet connection, and test your camera and microphone first. Interruptions and dropped connections make both the games and the video questions harder.
  5. Show your enthusiasm: BAE Systems wants people who are keen to learn and says it will train you. In your video answers, focus on your interest, passion and commitment rather than expert knowledge.
  6. Learn the BAE Systems values: Read up on the BAE Systems values (trusted, innovative and bold) and think about how they apply to your chosen role. You’ll draw on them again at interview.
  7. Apply early: BAE Systems recommends applying as soon as possible, as roles can close once enough applications arrive. Applying early also gives you more time to prepare for each stage.

If your virtual assessment goes well, you’ll be invited to an interview.

4. BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship Interview

The final stage is either a virtual or face-to-face interview. BAE Systems looks for interest, passion and commitment to what you want to do, so be ready to explain why you’ve chosen this degree apprenticeship.

Good to Know: Revisit the BAE Systems values before your interview and prepare examples that show them, such as times you’ve been trusted with responsibility or tried a new idea.

5. BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship FAQs

1 How much do BAE Systems degree apprentices earn?

Depending on your age and role, you could earn up to £26,000. BAE Systems also pays your tuition fees and offers generous time off, a share scheme, a workplace pension and flexible benefits.

2When do BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship applications open?

Applications for 2027 open in January 2027. BAE Systems advises applying early, as roles can close once enough applications are received.

3Is a degree apprenticeship better than university?

It depends on how you like to learn. You’ll still earn a full honours degree, but with a salary, real project experience and no tuition fees.

4How long does the BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship process take?

BAE Systems says reviewing your application may take a few weeks. Offers are usually conditional on achieving the minimum academic requirements for the role.

5Do I need security clearance for a BAE Systems apprenticeship?

Yes. You’ll need to meet at least the Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require National Security Vetting, which typically needs 5 to 10 years of continuous UK residency.

Prepare for your BAE Systems Degree Apprenticeship application with our expert-made tests, used by over 150 UK universities and their students, and also across Asia and continental Europe.

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This article was last updated on 26 October 2026. All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at publication, based on publicly available sources. For the latest details, please verify directly with BAE Systems.

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