Graduate schemes

Many graduates look to enter work through a graduate scheme.

A graduate scheme is a post-university/college career opportunity, offered by many major companies that want to ensure they employ the brightest talent.

There are graduate schemes in most areas of work. They usually last for a year, although some may last longer. If a graduate makes a good impression while on a graduate scheme, they could be offered permanent employment with the organisation.

Graduates are able to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience, while also earning a salary. Because of the work and training opportunities associated with this type of employment, graduate schemes are often very popular; it is not uncommon for a top graduate scheme to receive hundreds of applications.

Some graduate schemes specify which degree subject is needed for entry, while other schemes are not degree-specific. Employers often favour additional skills, such as the ability to speak a foreign language. Because of the high number of applications, you’ll often need a 2:1 or higher.

You’ll usually need to complete an online application. You’ll answer questions about your skills and work experience, and why you’d like to work for the organisation. If your application is successful, it’s likely that you’ll need to go to an assessment centre and/or an interview.

Employers invest a lot of time and money in graduate schemes. In return for this investment, successful applicants are expected to be hard-working and dedicated, often working long hours. Many graduate schemes involve each graduate working in a number of different roles. For example, during a graduate scheme, the graduate might spend one month in marketing, one in finance and one in HR.

By providing opportunities to experience different roles, the company is allowing the graduate to gain valuable experience of how different functions within the organisation operate, discover how functions work together and contribute to the organisation’s objectives, and find out which role best suits their skills.

While working on a graduate scheme, many graduates are assigned a mentor, often a more senior colleague within the organisation who oversees their work and offers advice and guidance when needed.

Some of the major graduate scheme providers include Microsoft, HSBC, Tesco, Esso, Nationwide, Rolls Royce and the NHS. Some smaller organisations also offer graduate training schemes.