The figures released today by the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) also found that apprenticeship vacancies have grown significantly.
Nearly 25,400 vacancies were advertised online in the three months - an increase of 26.6% on the previous year.
The report also revealed that London has the biggest competition for each online vacancy, recording the highest number of applications per advertised vacancy. This is followed by the West Midlands and the North East.
Employers in London advertised the most vacancies during the period (3,970). This was followed by the West Midlands (3040), Greater Manchester (2810) and Yorkshire & The Humber (2170).
David Way, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) said: "As today's figures suggest, more consumers and employers are recognising the benefits of apprenticeships and the value of the high quality training available.
"It is great to see such significant growth in both Apprenticeship applications and vacancies submitted and advertised online in just one year.
"Apprenticeships are a great way for young people and adult learners to earn while they learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification; and setting them on the road to success in their chosen career."
Way added: "For employers, hiring apprentices is a way of attracting new talent and developing a motivated, skilled and diverse workforce."
