Graduate scheme applications: every stage, explained

Graduate schemes are some of the most competitive roles in the UK, and most of them follow a similar multi-stage process. Knowing what's coming at each step makes it far less daunting, and helps you plan your time when you're applying to several at once.

When to apply

Many large employers open applications in the autumn, often September or October, for schemes starting the following summer or autumn. Closing dates vary widely, from late autumn to the following spring, and a lot of schemes recruit on a rolling basis, closing early once they have enough strong candidates. If you're interested in a scheme, applying early is usually the safest move.

Note the closing date of every scheme you're interested in as soon as you find it, and set a reminder for a week before. Rolling deadlines can arrive with little warning.

Stage 1: the application form

Usually your details, education, work experience and a few written questions. These are typically competency questions ("tell us about a time you...") and motivation questions ("why do you want to join this programme?"), often with a word limit.

• Use the STAR method for competency questions.
• Make your motivation answer specific to that employer; see our guide.
• Many schemes ask similar questions, so a strong answer can be adapted for the next form.

Stage 2: online tests

Many schemes use psychometric tests, either straight after the form or once it's been screened. Common types include:

• Numerical reasoning: interpreting charts and tables under time pressure.
• Verbal reasoning: reading passages and judging whether statements are true, false or can't be said.
• Situational judgement: choosing the best response to realistic workplace scenarios, often based on the company's values.
• Logical or inductive reasoning: spotting patterns in shapes or sequences.
• Game-based assessments: short games that measure things like attention, memory and decision-making.

Practice tests help a lot, mainly because they make the format and timing familiar. Your university careers service often gives free access to practice tests.

Stage 3: video interview

Often a recorded interview: questions appear on screen and you record your answers, with a set time to think and to respond. Some are live with an interviewer instead. Expect competency and motivation questions, much like the form.

• Practise speaking your answers aloud to a camera; it feels very different from writing them.
• Have your examples written down nearby, but don't read them word for word.
• Check your lighting, sound and internet connection beforehand.

Stage 4: assessment centre

Usually a half or full day, in person or online, with several exercises. These might include:

• Group exercise: working with other candidates on a task. Assessors watch how you contribute, listen and help the group, not whether you "win".
• Presentation: often prepared on the day from a case study.
• Case study or in-tray exercise: analysing information and making recommendations.
• Interviews: competency, strengths or technical questions.

You're usually assessed against fixed criteria rather than against the other candidates, so it's possible for everyone in a group to pass. Be supportive.

Stage 5: final interview

Some schemes end with a final interview with a senior manager or partner. Expect deeper questions about your motivation, commercial awareness and examples. Reread what you wrote on your application form, because they often pick up on it.

Keeping track of several schemes

Most graduates apply to several schemes at once, each at a different stage with different deadlines. A simple board with a column for each stage (applied, tests, video interview, assessment centre, final, offer) makes it obvious what needs your attention this week.