Engineering covers a broad range of disciplines — civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, chemical, software, and aerospace among others. Entry routes include both university degrees and degree apprenticeships. This page maps the landscape and what to prepare at each stage.
University vs degree apprenticeship
A traditional engineering degree typically takes four years (MEng) or three years (BEng). A degree apprenticeship combines a full engineering degree with employment from day one — you earn a salary and graduate with the same qualification. Major employers offering engineering degree apprenticeships include Rolls-Royce, Network Rail, BAE Systems, Arup, and the Environment Agency.
Admissions tests
If applying to Cambridge or Imperial for engineering, you will likely need the ESAT. Some other selective engineering courses require TMUA or subject-specific tests. Check requirements per institution. For employer applications, numerical reasoning and technical tests are common.
Work experience
Engineering employers value hands-on project experience. School-level STEM competitions, such as the Engineering Education Scheme or Arkwright Scholarship, provide structured engineering project experience. University placements and industrial year-in-industry programmes are well-regarded. STEM outreach through organisations like the Smallpeice Trust is accessible from school age.
Building a strong application
Focus on demonstrating genuine problem-solving interest and specific project experience. Know your target engineering discipline and be able to explain why it interests you with reference to specific projects, problems, or technologies. Engineering interviews often include technical questions alongside competency questions.
Checklist
- Check admissions test requirements for target universities
- Research degree apprenticeship options alongside university routes
- Participate in STEM competitions or engineering project schemes
- Build a record of relevant projects to discuss in applications
- Practise for technical interview questions in your discipline
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not researching degree apprenticeships as a serious alternative
- Applying to engineering without any evidence of practical interest
- Not preparing for ESAT or TMUA if required