If you’re a student in your final year and you haven’t yet secured a graduate role, you might be worried that you’ve missed this year’s round of vacancies. Maybe you applied for graduate schemes but haven’t had a job offer or perhaps you haven’t applied for any vacancies yet – either way there are still opportunities open – read on and we’ll explain how to find them.
Graduate schemes and graduate jobs
Most advertised graduate employment opportunities will either be a graduate scheme or a graduate job. Although they are similar, there are some key differences to the way the roles are structured and how and when employers recruit for them.
Graduate schemes are usually advertised by large employers who recruit several graduates every year. You typically go through a structured period of training which lasts between 18 months and 2 years.
Applications open around a year ahead and many students apply at the start of semester 1 in their final year, for a scheme that would start after graduation. The application process usually involves several stages, including an online application, recruitment tests, video interview, assessment centre and final interview. For more information about graduate schemes see the Graduate Jobs section of the Careers Service website.
At this time of year, many employers will have closed their vacancies for graduate schemes and have completed their recruitment. However, although there will be fewer schemes being advertised, there are still some open to applicants so you could look for vacancies using the websites on our Finding Opportunities page.
Graduate jobs are advertised year-round and employers are usually looking for someone who can start the post within a few weeks. You will usually receive training, but it may be less structured and over a shorter period. Employers of all sizes offer graduate jobs, but it is more likely that smaller to medium sized companies will recruit for graduate jobs than graduate schemes.
At this time of year, you should find a good choice of graduate jobs being advertised across a range of sectors. You can find vacancies on graduate jobs websites, but it’s also a good idea to use sector specific websites such as the ones on our Exploring Occupations pages. You can also research companies and then check for vacancies on their website, or contact them directly to make a speculative application.
Exploring other options
Graduate jobs and schemes aren’t the only option after graduation. Our website also has information about further study or working for yourself.
We’re here to help
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If you need any support with searching or applying for graduate roles, or planning your next steps you can email us or book an appointment through MyCareer.
