How to apply for graduate schemes (and actually get in)
Graduate schemes are competitive, but the process is predictable. Once you understand the stages and what each one is testing, you can prepare deliberately instead of guessing. Here is the full path, from when to apply to how to convert the final assessment centre.
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A graduate scheme is a structured training programme that fast-tracks you into a career, often with rotations, formal development, and a clear path to a permanent role. They attract huge numbers of applicants, but most people apply badly: late, generically, and underprepared for the specific stages. Get those three things right and your odds change dramatically.
When to apply
Timing is the mistake that costs the most. Most large UK schemes open in September or October for roles starting the following autumn, and many recruit on a rolling basis, reviewing applications as they arrive and closing early once places are filled. That means the official deadline is often irrelevant: by then the scheme may already be full.
Apply within the first few weeks of a scheme opening, not the last. If you are in your penultimate year, the same logic applies to internships and placements, which are themselves a major route onto graduate schemes.
The full process, stage by stage
Employers vary, but most graduate schemes follow the same sequence. Each stage filters the pool, so treat every one as decisive.
1. Online application & CV
Personal details, education, and often a few short competency questions. Your CV is screened (frequently by software) for keywords and formatting.
2. Online aptitude tests
Numerical, verbal, logical, and situational judgement tests. Usually automated and timed, with a pass threshold.
3. Video / recorded interview
Pre-set questions you answer to camera within a time limit. Tests communication, motivation, and competency examples.
4. Assessment centre
The final stage: a group exercise, a case study or presentation, and one or more interviews, scored by trained assessors against a competency framework.
The application and CV
Most applications are lost here, before a human even reads them. Large employers screen with applicant tracking software, so a clean, keyword-matched CV is essential. Tailor it to each scheme by mirroring the competencies in the job description. Our guide to writing a student CV and, where one is requested, our cover letter guide cover exactly what to include.
Online tests
Aptitude tests are highly learnable. They follow consistent formats, so practising under timed conditions improves both speed and accuracy fast. Treat them like an exam you can revise for.
Do timed practice tests for each type before the real thing; free sets are widely available online.
For numerical tests, brush up on percentages, ratios, and reading data from tables and charts.
For situational judgement tests, answer in line with the employer's stated values, not what you'd personally do.
Sit the real test in a quiet room with no interruptions, a calculator, and scrap paper ready.
Don't get stuck: these are often negatively marked on time, so keep moving and come back if allowed.
Interviews and the assessment centre
Video interviews and assessment centres test the same core competencies: communication, teamwork, commercial awareness, problem-solving, and resilience. Prepare 5 to 6 strong examples from your experience and structure each answer with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
The assessment centre is the final hurdle and the one candidates most often misread, especially the group exercise. Our assessment centre guide breaks down what assessors actually score and how to prepare for each part.
Common mistakes
Applying too late
Rolling recruitment means strong candidates miss out simply because the scheme filled before their application. Apply early.
Spraying generic applications
Untailored applications are filtered fast. A handful of researched, tailored applications beats dozens of copy-pasted ones.
Skipping test practice
Aptitude tests are learnable, yet many candidates sit them cold and fail a stage they could easily have passed.
Running out of examples
Using the same weak story for every competency question is a common failure point. Prepare several strong, specific examples in advance.
Treating the group exercise as a competition
You're scored individually on behaviour, not ranked against the room. Collaborating well raises your score.
Frequently asked questions
When should you apply for graduate schemes in the UK?
Most large UK graduate schemes open in September or October for roles starting the following year, and many recruit on a rolling basis, closing once full. Apply as early as you can in your final year. Waiting for the official deadline often means the places are gone.
What are the stages of a graduate scheme application?
A typical process is: online application and CV, online aptitude tests (numerical, verbal, situational judgement), a video interview, and an assessment centre with a group exercise, case study or presentation, and an interview. Some add a strengths-based or final partner interview.
How many graduate schemes should you apply to?
Quality beats quantity. Around 5 to 10 well-researched, tailored applications usually outperform 30 rushed ones. Tailoring takes time, and generic applications are filtered out early, so focus on roles you genuinely want.
Do you need a 2:1 to get on a graduate scheme?
Many schemes ask for a 2:1, but a growing number have dropped or relaxed degree requirements in favour of skills and aptitude tests. With a 2:2, target employers who don't filter on grades, lead with strong test scores and experience, and explain any mitigating circumstances.
How do you pass graduate aptitude tests?
Practise. The tests follow consistent formats, so timed practice improves speed and accuracy quickly. Free practice sets are widely available. For situational judgement tests, answer in line with the employer's stated values.
Free Student Guide (28 pages)
Includes a breakdown of the top graduate employer processes, psychometric tests, and assessment centres, plus year-by-year action plans to get application-ready early.
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