You need to be 16 with 5 Junior Cycle passes, but over-18s with 3 years' relevant experience can get in through an interview instead. Apprentices with children may also qualify for Working Family Payment.
Quick facts
- Length
- 2 to 4 years
- Fees
- Generally none
- Upper age
- None
- Entry
- 16+, 5 Junior Cycle passes (or alternatives)
- Bursaries
- Up to €3,000 for some groups
- Employer grant
- €2,000 a year per apprentice
How it works
"An apprenticeship can last 2 to 4 years, during which time you will spend some time in off-the-job training." Craft trades like plumbing and electrical usually take 4 years. Newer apprenticeships lead to Level 5 to 10 awards. "There is no upper age limit."
On older craft apprenticeships, the ETB pays an allowance equal to your wage while you're in college. On newer ones your employer pays you throughout.
Fees and money
"Generally, an apprentice does not pay fees." You may pay a part student contribution for time in a technological university. "Apprentices are not eligible for the student grant ."
Bursaries help under-represented groups, Travellers and care leavers: "The bursaries can provide up to €3,000." "If you are an apprentice and you have at least one child you may qualify for WFP, if you meet the conditions for WFP."
Getting in
"To be eligible for an apprenticeship, you must be at least 16 years of age and have a minimum of grade D in 5 subjects in the Junior Cycle or equivalent exam." Without that, do an approved preparatory course, or, if you "Are over 18 years of age and have at least 3 years of relevant work experience, in which case you will also be asked to do an assessment interview."
Find jobs on apprenticeship.ie and apply to the employer, who must be SOLAS-approved. "You can get advice on apprenticeships: Freephone 1800 794 487 from 11am to 5pm, Monday to Friday."
For employers
"Certain employers who provide apprenticeships can get an apprenticeship employers grant of €2,000 per year for each registered apprentice." There's also a gender-based bursary, and small firms can get support through One More Job.
Common questions
Is there an age limit for apprenticeships in Ireland?
No. There is no upper age limit.
Do apprentices pay fees in Ireland?
Generally no, though some pay a pro-rata registration fee for time in a technological university.
Can apprentices get a SUSI grant?
No. Apprentices are not eligible for the student grant.
What do I need to start an apprenticeship?
Be at least 16 with grade D or higher in 5 Junior Cycle subjects, or do a preparatory course, or be over 18 with 3 years' relevant experience.
Is there a grant for employers who take on apprentices?
Certain employers can get €2,000 a year for each registered apprentice.