Apprenticeship v university
University is the right path for some people because it offers the chance to study an interesting subject in detail and gain a valuable degree that opens career options. University can also be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, filled with opportunities for getting involved in new activities and meeting life-long friends. On the other hand, an apprenticeship offers a more direct path to those same career options, without the costs of going to university. Apprenticeships are also perfect for people who aren’t keen on full-time study after finishing their A levels and want to kickstart their careers. It’s important to remember that in the legal profession, you can have the same career whether you choose university or an
apprenticeship, which means that your choice isn’t so much about where you end up, but how you get there – some apprenticeships even involve gaining a university degree. Law apprenticeships can lead to several possible legal careers, including paralegal, solicitor and CILEX Lawyer. Some may also progress into specialist roles, such as licensed conveyancer. The careers listed are also available if you choose to go to university. Find out more about what being a paralegal, solicitor or CILEX Lawyer involves on pages 4 and 5 in ‘Career paths’. Meanwhile, this table explains some of the key differences between an apprenticeship and going to university.
Qualifications Apprenticeship
University
Professional qualifications to become a paralegal, solicitor or CILEX Lawyer.
A university degree in one of hundreds of subjects that’s widely recognised. For law, a degree in any subject makes you eligible for the postgraduate professional courses and assessments you must complete to become a paralegal, solicitor, barrister or CILEX Lawyer.
Completing the solicitor apprenticeship also involves gaining a law degree. Apprentices must complete the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) to qualify as a solicitor.
Cost
Apprenticeship
University
None to the apprentice – the costs of apprenticeships are covered by the
With tuition fees standing at almost £10,000 a year and living costs on top of that, many students leave university in tens of thousands of pounds’ worth of debt.
government and employers, while apprentices themselves are paid at least the apprentices’ National Minimum Wage. However, as of January 2026, government funding for level 7 apprenticeships is available only to those aged 16 to 21, or up to 25 in certain circumstances.
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