What is a Graduate Scheme?

How does a graduate scheme work?

A graduate scheme (also known as a graduate programme) is a structured programme where you rotate between different areas of the business, with a mentor or buddy helping you find your feet - think of it as a super-detailed crash course in working life.

The exact length of your scheme depends on your employer and industry. Most run for around two years; some last three, and in certain specialisms (like actuarial), some run for four.

You’re not alone either; employers often take on a cohort of graduates starting at the same time, with events and networks to help you settle in beyond your team.

You won’t just be observing, either. You’ll get stuck into real work from day one, with structured training that’ll give you a professional qualification at the end; some schemes will even offer you a permanent job.

Meet Max, a graduate surveyor. Here’s what his day looks like:

Want to find out what a graduate role could look like in your chosen industry?

What is the difference between a graduate scheme and a graduate job?

Graduate schemes and graduate jobs are both great ways to kick-start your career, build valuable skills and earn a salary fresh out of university. However, there are some differences. Let’s break it down:

Is a graduate scheme worth it?

It absolutely is. I really liked walking into something that had structure, which gave me the chance to learn, work on meaningful projects and transition between university and work.

And I’m not the only one who feels that way. Here’s what this graduate said about their time as a Graduate Civil Engineer at JN Bentley:

I am really enjoying my time at JN Bentley. The people are supportive, I've had the chance to work on a variety of interesting projects, and I've been trusted with meaningful responsibilities from an early stage. I've also appreciated the support for professional development and chartership, which makes it feel like a place where I can build a long-term career. Graduate Civil Engineer, JN Bentley

When I was deciding, reading what other graduates had to say about their schemes helped me picture what mine could look like. There are loads of them, too - click below to explore.

Do graduate schemes pay you?

Yes. Graduate schemes are paid, full-time positions with the same benefits as any other employee, including holiday pay, sick pay and more.

According to our student job reviews, the average graduate salary is £33,500 a year, though it depends heavily on your employer, industry and location. 

Graduate pathways in Law are a great example of just how much they can vary. First-year trainees can earn anywhere between £47,000 and £56,000 a year, while salaries outside the capital can be lower. Not always, though; some regional firms pay close to London rates.

It’s always worth looking at a few employers before you apply, but it’s worth remembering that not everyone publishes their salaries upfront and you’ll usually know more well into the application process.

What are students saying?

Unsure what it’s actually like to work for an employer? Here’s what these students said about their schemes:

Looking for a graduate scheme can feel like a struggle bus, but we’re here to make the job hunt so much easier. Deadlines for graduate schemes can creep up quickly (and the most popular schemes fill up fast), so we’ve put together this timeline to help you keep on top of all the key months and what to expect during the application process.

How do you apply for a graduate scheme?

If a graduate scheme’s for you, you’ll need to start with a strong grad CV and cover letter. Tailor your application for every role you apply for - employers will know when you’ve sent them a generic application.

Before you apply, list out your skills and qualifications so far. Never worked before? Don’t panic, honestly, transferable skills are real, and you probably have lots of them. Have you ever volunteered, worked on a project or been part of a society? They’re great ways of showing your soft skills.

We’ve got loads of application advice to help you level up your graduate applications. Click below to read.

How can I be successful when applying?

The graduate market is hard right now, and graduate schemes are competitive (with around 140 applications per scheme). That doesn’t mean that you won’t get one. Here are my three top tips for standing out.

On work experience right now and want to secure a graduate role after university? Here’s how I did it.

What happens when I finish a graduate scheme?

You’re probably wondering if a graduate scheme actually ends in a job. And it often does; it just depends on the employer. 

All graduate schemes are different; some graduate schemes are structured so the role is permanent from day one. It’s always worth reading the vacancies or the employer website to find out. There’s nothing wrong with asking what happens at the end of a scheme during the application process, either. Here are some possible outcomes:

• Permanent position. Many employers design their schemes to eventually offer permanent positions. So if you do well, they’ll keep you on.

• Competitive placement. Some employers only have a limited number of permanent roles, so graduates compete for available roles at the end.

• Reapply for a role. Some schemes will ask you to reapply for a permanent position at the end of the scheme.

If you’re not kept on, don’t be discouraged. It doesn’t mean that you’re not great at your job. You’ve already gained valuable skills and experience that other employers are just waiting to take on. 

There are so many employers with some pretty awesome roles looking for talented graduates to join them.

Ready to apply? We have hundreds of graduate roles available across an exciting range of industries. Click below to get started.