Maximise Your Apprenticeship Levy
Who pays what, verified against gov.uk → · one page, kept current, for co-investment, expiry and age bands.
Your levy funds now expire in 12 months, not 24. Co-investment has risen to 25%. Here's how to get the most from every pound.
Key Changes in 2026
12-Month Expiry
Levy funds expire 12 months after entering your account. Plan your training pipeline now to avoid wasting available funds.
25% Co-Investment
When levy runs out, you pay 25% for apprentices aged 25 and over (up from 5%); 16 to 24s stay fully funded. Front-load your biggest programmes while funds are available.
No More Top-Up
From August 2026, the government stops adding 10% to new funds. Budget accordingly and plan long-term programmes early.
Your Levy Maximisation Strategy
1. Audit Your Balance
Check your DAS account now. Identify funds expiring in the next 12 months. Use our funding calculator to model different scenarios and prioritise which programmes to start first.
2. Prioritise High-Value Programmes
Enrol on Level 5–7 programmes first - they cost more and deliver the most ROI. Start with AI, advanced leadership, or coaching qualifications that transform your leadership pipeline.
3. Use Modular Options
From April 2026, the Growth & Skills Levy funds shorter modular courses in AI, digital, and engineering. Upskill more people with less budget through flexible, modular pathways.
Popular Programmes for Levy Payers
AI for Senior Leaders
AI strategy for senior executives, with a CMI Level 7 qualification. Vision, board readiness and enterprise-scale decisions on AI. Funded at any age, unlike Level 7.
Learn More →AI & Machine Learning Fellowship
Advanced AI and ML skills for technical specialists. Build enterprise-grade AI capability, lead AI transformation, and deliver measurable business value.
Learn More →AI for Coaching Professionals
Build a coaching culture that is ready for AI. Develop CMI-qualified coaches, improve team performance and embed coaching at every level of leadership.
Learn More →AI for Operations Leaders
Operational excellence for department heads and operations managers, with AI and automation built in. Streamline processes, drive efficiency and lead cross-functional teams.
Learn More →