Your guide to finding and applying for graduate schemes in the UK

Congratulations, Huddersfield students! As you approach the end of your academic journey, the prospect of entering the professional world looms large. Graduate schemes are excellent opportunities to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing structured training and a pathway to a rewarding career. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of finding and applying for graduate schemes in the UK.

1. Start Early

Begin your search early; many companies open their graduate scheme applications as early as September. Research different industries and companies that align with your interests and skills. Make a list of prospective employers and their application deadlines to stay organized.

2. Utilise Online Resources

Many online platforms specialise in showcasing graduate schemes across various sectors. Websites such as Prospects, TARGETjobs, and Gradcracker can help you discover available opportunities. Additionally, follow company profiles on professional networking sites like LinkedIn, where many organisations post updates about their graduate schemes.

3. Attend Careers Fairs

Careers fairs are invaluable opportunities to meet recruiters face-to-face. Come along to our Online Careers Fair on November 9th to meet with employers, share your CV, ask insightful questions, and make a memorable impression to increase your chances of being remembered during the application process.

4. Leverage Your University's Resources

You can seek advice and guidance from the University Careers Service. We provide 1-1 appointments for CV and application support, interview preparation, career planning and guidance. We also deliver workshops such as our ‘How to…' event series which can support you in navigating the graduate scheme recruitment process.

5. Tailor Your Applications

One size does not fit all when it comes to graduate scheme applications. Tailor your CV and cover letter for each position you apply for. Emphasize and evidence specific skills, experiences, and achievements that match the requirements outlined in the job description. Show genuine enthusiasm for the company and its values.

6. Prepare for Assessment Centres and Psychometric Tests

Many graduate schemes involve assessment centres, and psychometric tests which assess your skills and abilities in various scenarios. Practice psychometric tests, and research and revise the assessment centre process to best prepare and gain confidence. Graduates First has a range of practice Psychometric Tests to help you prepare.

7. Seek Feedback

If you're unsuccessful in your applications, don't be discouraged. Instead, seek feedback whenever possible. Some organisations provide feedback to candidates, which can be immensely valuable for your future applications. Learn from each application and use the feedback to improve your approach.

8. Stay Persistent and Positive

The graduate scheme application process can be competitive, but persistence pays off. Don't get disheartened by rejections; consider them as opportunities to learn and grow. Stay positive, keep refining your applications, and believe in your abilities. Your determination will set you apart.

Employer Spotlight: PwC

PwC provide various services including audit, tax, and consulting services to businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations. PwC is known for its expertise in assurance (including auditing), tax planning and compliance, and consulting services. They are a large recruiter of university graduates, offering a variety of graduate schemes in various business areas. They’re currently advertising several grad roles on JobShop (go to ‘Find opportunity’ and type in ‘PwC’ in the quick search function to find these). PwC have also released their employability hub to help support you in developing your employability skills while also advising on how to navigate current recruitment methods. If you would like to find out more about PwC and what they have to offer, they will be attending our online careers fair on November 9th. They also have a Leeds in-office event taking place on 2nd November and an event in Manchester on 7th November, plus other online events.