Apprentice Minimum Wage 2025: Rates, Eligibility and What You Need to Know

Apprentice Minimum Wage 2025: What You Need to Know

If you are starting an apprenticeship in 2025, it is important to understand the apprentice minimum wage 2025 rate and how it applies to you. The statutory minimum for apprentices is £7.55 per hour, effective from 1 April 2025. This rate is set by the government following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission and applies to all eligible apprentices across the UK.

Who Gets the Apprentice Rate?

The apprentice minimum wage is not for everyone. You are entitled to the £7.55 rate if you are:

• Under 19 years old, regardless of how long you have been an apprentice, or
• Aged 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship.

Once you turn 19 and have completed your first year, your employer must pay you at least the National Minimum Wage for your age. For 18 to 20 year olds that is £10.00 per hour, and for those aged 21 and over it is the National Living Wage of £12.21 per hour.

How Does It Compare to Other Minimum Wage Rates?

The apprentice rate is the same as the rate for workers under 18 (£7.55). However, it is lower than the rates for older workers. The government sets these bands to reflect the training element of apprenticeships. Many employers choose to pay more than the minimum, especially in industries where skilled labour is in demand. You can find more details on all the current rates in our pay guides.

What the Data Shows

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in April 2025 the median hourly pay for all employees was £17.96. Low pay (below two-thirds of the median) was defined as less than £11.97 per hour. The proportion of jobs paid below the minimum wage was estimated at 1.5% of employee jobs, though this is not a direct measure of non-compliance. The ONS also notes that a large number of jobs are clustered around the National Living Wage rate of £12.21.

What If You Are Paid Less?

If you think your employer is not paying you the correct minimum wage, you should first check your contract and payslips. You can use the government’s minimum wage calculator to see if you are being paid correctly. If you are still being underpaid, you can speak to your employer or contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) for advice. HMRC can also investigate and take enforcement action.

Take-Home Pay and Deductions

Remember that the minimum wage is calculated on your gross hourly pay before tax and National Insurance. Some deductions, such as for accommodation (up to £10.66 per day in 2025), are allowed and can reduce your effective hourly rate. Always check that your pay after any permitted deductions still meets the legal minimum.

Planning Your Apprenticeship

Knowing your rights around pay is an important part of starting an apprenticeship. For more information on how wages are set and what to expect, visit our UK Minimum Wage page or explore pay data for industry-specific insights.

Summary

The apprentice minimum wage 2025 is £7.55 per hour for eligible apprentices. This rate applies to those under 19 or in their first year. After the first year, older apprentices move to the higher age-based rates. Always check your contract and the current statutory rates, as these change every April. If you are unsure, speak to your employer or seek advice from a trusted organisation.