Top 3 Apprenticeships for Students in the USA (2025 Edition)

Apprenticeships are a great way for students in the USA to learn real job skills, get paid, and start a career early. While many people think college is the only way to success, apprenticeships prove there are other great options. In fact, many students can earn money, gain experience, and even avoid student debt by choosing to learn through working.

In this guide, you'll learn what apprenticeships are, how they help students, and the top 3 apprenticeships for students in the USA. Whether you're in high school, recently graduated, or thinking about your future, this blog will help you make the right choice.

 

What Is an Apprenticeship Program for Students?

An apprenticeship is a job where you learn and earn at the same time. You work part of the time and take classes or training the rest of the time. This helps you build skills and experience while also getting paid. It usually lasts from 1 to 5 years, depending on the program.

Apprenticeship vs. Internship vs. Entry-Level Job

• Apprenticeship: Paid, long-term, includes training and certification
• Internship: Often unpaid, short-term, usually no official certificate
• Entry-level job: Paid, full work hours, less training provided

Who Can Apply?

Most student apprenticeships in the USA are open to:

• High school seniors or graduates
• College students or recent grads
• Young adults looking for career training

Benefits of Apprenticeships

• Get paid while you learn
• No student loans or tuition fees
• Hands-on job experience
• Certifications and job offers
• A clear career path after high school

Many apprenticeships are supported by the U.S. Department of Labor, making them safe and reliable choices.

 

Why Students in the USA Should Consider Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships help young people build careers faster and smarter. Here’s why they are a smart move:

• Avoid college debt: Most apprenticeships are free or low cost
• Earn money: You get paid while you train
• Get hired faster: Many programs offer full-time jobs after you finish
• Start early: Some programs are open to high school students
• High demand: Skilled workers like electricians, coders, and pharmacy techs are needed across the U.S.

According to DOL statistics, 93% of apprentices who complete their programs keep their jobs. That’s a strong success rate!

 

How to Find the Best Apprenticeships in the USA?

There are lots of places to look for student apprenticeships. Start here:

Websites to Use:

• Apprenticeship.gov – Official U.S. database
• CareerOneStop – Government job tools
• Indeed.com – Search for apprenticeships by location
• Handshake – Great for college students

Tips to Spot Good Programs:

• Check if it’s registered with the Department of Labor
• Read reviews and success stories
• Avoid programs that charge high fees
• Talk to a school counselor or career advisor

 

Top 3 Apprenticeships for Students in the USA

Below are three of the best student apprenticeships in the USA for 2025. These programs are well-known, trusted, and offer great careers.

 

1. IBM New Collar Apprenticeship Program

IBM offers one of the best tech apprenticeships for students who want to work in computers or software.

Program Highlights:

• Fields: Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Development
• Duration: 12–24 months
• Pay: $20–$30 per hour (depending on location)
• Location: Nationwide
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED

Why It’s Great:

• No college degree needed
• Learn in-demand tech skills
• Get real job experience in a Fortune 500 company

How to Apply:

Visit: IBM Apprenticeship Careers

 

2. IBEW Electrical Apprenticeship (NECA)

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) offers great training for future electricians.

Program Highlights:

• Fields: Electrical construction and maintenance
• Duration: 3–5 years
• Pay: $15–$28 per hour (increases yearly)
• Location: Local union chapters across the U.S.
• Requirements: Math skills, high school diploma or GED

Why It’s Great:

• Paid training with raises each year
• Free classes and certifications
• Union support and job placement

How to Apply:

Visit: IBEW Apprenticeship Finder

 

3. CVS Health Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship

This program helps students start a career in healthcare as a pharmacy tech.

Program Highlights:

• Field: Pharmacy and customer service
• Duration: 12 months
• Pay: $14–$20 per hour
• Location: Over 9,000 CVS stores in the U.S.
• Requirements: Age 18+, high school diploma, good communication skills

Why It’s Great:

• Start working in healthcare without a degree
• Learn pharmacy and patient care skills
• Path to becoming a licensed Pharmacy Technician

How to Apply:

Visit: CVS Apprenticeships

 

Honorable Mentions: Other Great Apprenticeships for Students in the USA

• Amazon Mechatronics Apprenticeship – Robotics and machines
• Toyota AMT Program – Auto manufacturing and tech
• Microsoft LEAP Program – For tech students with some coding skills
• Plumbing and HVAC Unions – Trades that pay well without college

These programs may not be in the top 3, but they are still excellent for students who want to work in growing industries.

 

How Much Do Apprenticeships Pay in the USA?

Here’s a look at average pay for student apprentices in different industries:

Industry	Average Hourly Pay
1. Technology	$20–$30
2. Electrical Trades	$15–$28
3. Pharmacy	$14–$20
4. Manufacturing	$16–$25
5. Construction	$15–$27

Note: Pay often increases as you gain more experience in the program.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Student Apprenticeships

1. Do you need experience?

No. Most student apprenticeships are made for beginners. They teach you from the start.

2. Can international students apply?

Some programs may require U.S. citizenship or a work permit. Always check the rules first.

3. Are there online apprenticeships?

Yes, especially in tech and marketing. But hands-on fields like electrical or healthcare must be done in person.

4. Can high school students apply?

Yes! Some apprenticeships allow students to apply in their senior year or right after graduation.

5. Do you get a certificate?

Yes. Most apprenticeships offer a certificate or license when you finish. This helps you get jobs in the future.

6. Will they hire me after?

Many companies hire their apprentices full-time after they finish the program.

 

How to Apply for a Student Apprenticeship?

1. Pick a field – Choose an area you enjoy like tech, healthcare, or construction.
2. Search for programs – Use Apprenticeship.gov or talk to your school.
3. Update your resume – Add school info, projects, or part-time jobs.
4. Write a simple cover letter – Say why you want to join and what you hope to learn.
5. Prepare for interviews – Practice talking about your goals and skills.
6. Apply to a few programs – Don’t apply to just one. Try at least 3–5 programs.

 

College is not the only path to success. Apprenticeships are a smart, hands-on way to build your future without student loans. The Top 3 Apprenticeships for Students in the USA—IBM, IBEW, and CVS—offer strong career paths, solid pay, and real-world experience.

If you're a student wondering what to do after school, these programs can change your life.

 

Quick Comparison Table

Program	Industry	Pay Range	Duration	Best For
1. IBM New Collar	Tech	$20–$30/hr	12–24 months	Students who love coding
2. IBEW Electrical Apprenticeship	Trades	$15–$28/hr	3–5 years	Hands-on learners
3. CVS Pharmacy Apprenticeship	Healthcare	$14–$20/hr	12 months	Caring, helpful students

 

More Resources

• U.S. Apprenticeship Programs
• Youth Apprenticeship Toolkit
• CareerOneStop Apprenticeships