The new Apprenticeship Funding Rules for August 2026 to July 2027 have been released and they introduce guidance for transferring apprentices to newer versions of standards, where the apprenticeship assessment plan (AAP) has been revised.
This means existing apprentices may transfer to the latest version of the same standard. This can occur at any point during their apprenticeship, provided they meet the relevant assessment requirements.
Key Requirements for Moving Apprentices to Updated Standards
Before any transfer takes place, the apprentice, employer and training provider must agree to this. Providers have a responsibility to explain the differences between the existing version and the revised version. This is to ensure both the apprentice and employer understand any changes to the standard, training requirements or assessment arrangements.
Providers should be aware that the format and timings of apprenticeship assessment vary, and we strongly recommend our customers consult with us before suggesting any changes to their employers or apprentices.
Decisions to move to a newer version must be formally reflected in both the apprenticeship agreement and the training plan.
Providers must also ensure that the apprentice receives any additional training or assessment required to achieve full occupational competence against the new version of the standard and to successfully complete the apprenticeship assessment.
However, once an apprentice transfers to a newer version of a standard, they cannot move back to the previous version. The only exception relates to apprentices returning from a break in learning. In this case, they will be able to return to the version they were originally following.
The Role of the Assessment Organisation
Where an apprentice is already registered with an Assessment Organisation (AO), the provider must take several steps before the transfer.
This includes confirming that the AO is approved and ready to deliver the assessment for the revised version when needed.
Providers must also notify the AO when a transfer takes place. This includes reviewing any changes to assessment responsibilities or contractual arrangements that may arise as a result of the revised assessment plan.
In some cases, changes to the new version may reduce or alter the role of the AO. Providers must review and update any contractual agreements where necessary.
Duration and Funding Remain Unchanged
Although an apprentice may move to a revised version of a standard, the overall apprenticeship duration requirements do not reset. Providers must ensure that the combined time spent on both versions continues to meet the minimum requirements that applied when the apprentice first started.
Similarly, funding arrangements remain consistent. The funding band that applied at the apprentice’s original start date remains in place when they transfer to a newer version of the standard.
Providers should note that the fee and invoice points for apprenticeship assessment may differ to those for EPA, and they should discuss this with their AO.
For providers and employers, these new rules create greater flexibility to move apprentices onto updated standards. It also ensures apprentices continue to receive the training, support and assessment needed to complete their apprenticeship successfully.
For further information, please visit:
Apprenticeship funding rules 2026 to 2027
Changes to apprenticeship assessment, 2025 to 2026 – GOV.UK
Track the release of new Apprenticeship Assessment Plans:
