How to find graduate jobs: Tips for students

Graduate Career Top tips

As a new graduate, you’re likely thinking about branching out and finding your first full-time job. It’s really fun searching for graduate jobs and finding your unique spot in the job market. 

Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to find postgraduate positions, how graduate schemes in the UK typically work, and how to get employed straight out of uni. 

Graduate schemes in the UK

A graduate job is exactly what the name suggests: a permanent job role for recent university graduates. Graduate jobs exist in nearly all employment sectors and are great for postgraduate students looking to gain experience in a specific industry or discipline. 

Many companies in the UK offer graduate schemes. A graduate scheme is an entry-level training programme you can apply for if you have a degree. Typically, a graduate scheme offers hands-on experience at a company, giving you a chance to grow your skills and train with professionals. 

How to find and apply for graduate jobs

Finding full-time graduate roles can be tough, and a lot of preparation is needed before you start applying. Let’s break down exactly how you can kickstart the process. A large part of this process is learning how to write a good CV.

Job searching websites

There are a number of websites you can use to find and apply for graduate jobs. Some websites, such as ProspectsGive a Grad a Go and GraduateJobs.com, are set up specifically for finding graduate roles. 

Besides websites that advertise postgraduate jobs, you can try searching for vacancies on your uni website or by contacting the careers office. You can also look at company websites and social media platforms, attend career fairs, or attend national recruitment exhibitions like the UK Careers Fair

The process of applying for graduate jobs

The process for applying to graduate jobs may be different depending on the company and its unique employment requirements. 

  1. Fill out an online application form: You’ll need to submit your CV and maybe a cover letter. 
  2. Attend a first-round interview: If your application is selected, you’ll be invited to an initial interview where the hiring manager will assess your eligibility for the role. 
  3. Complete a competency test or skill-specific task: Some companies require you to complete a task or test to ensure that your skills are right for the job.    
  4. Attend a final interview: If you pass the test and they like you, you might be invited to a final interview. At this interview, you will meet other company employees and ask any further questions before you are accepted or rejected. 

When to apply for graduate jobs

Graduate schemes in the UK usually recruit candidates to begin working in the Autumn (around September). They often open their deadlines a whole year in advance so new graduates can start immediately. 

This means graduates need to start applying in the Summer or Autumn before their final year. This ensures that the application process is completed and you’re ready to start working shortly after graduation. 

If you’re searching for jobs that aren’t part of a graduate programme then you need to give yourself a bit of time to prepare your CV and get cracking on job applications. We would recommend starting to look for such roles at least a month before you graduate. Or learn about how to find internships after/during university if this is what you are looking for.

Popular graduate jobs and companies with graduate programmes

Finance jobs

There are some world-renowned finance graduate jobs in the UK. If you’re interested in financial consulting, auditing or legal services, take a look at the graduate roles on offer at the Big 4 accounting firms: PwCDeloitteEY and KPMG

IT jobs

The tech industry is one of the fastest growing in the world, offering graduates amazing career opportunities - some of which you may not even know about yet. If you’re interested in graduate roles in FinTech, web development, computing or software development, try looking at graduate schemes at GoogleAccentureThales or BT.  

Energy industry jobs

The energy industry is massively diverse, so if you’re looking for a career in sustainability, engineering or project management then you’re sure to find something. Big companies like ShellNational GridE.ON and OVO Energy all have graduate schemes you can apply to. 

Healthcare jobs

If you have an interest in the Healthcare industry, there are some graduate schemes available that can help you take your first step into a specific discipline. Some careers have very strict academic requirements and clinical certifications, so make sure to look at the NHS website for more information. 

Marketing jobs

Marketing is an exciting industry to work in as it’s constantly changing. If you’ve just studied media, PR, journalism, advertising or digital marketing, explore the graduate opportunities at companies like Publicis GroupeThomson ReutersSaatchi & Saatchi and the BBC

FAQ’s about graduate jobs

How competitive are graduate jobs?

Graduate schemes in the UK are highly competitive. With over 2.9 million higher education students in the UK last year, you can only imagine how many of those will enter the job market in search of graduate roles. 

Don’t feel the pressure to join a graduate scheme straight after uni. If you don’t think a graduate role is the best option for you, we recommend taking some time to explore other options like internships. 

Are graduate jobs only for recent graduates?

The short answer is no. Don’t feel as if you’ve missed your chance if you don’t get a graduate role immediately after uni. Typically, graduate roles accept applicants based on their qualifications and not just their age or graduation date. 

What is the average salary for graduate jobs?

The average graduate salary is difficult to find as it really depends on the industry type and where you work. Generally, you can expect to earn between £18,000 to £32,500 p/a as a graduate. 

What qualifications do I need for a graduate job?

The entry requirements for a graduate job will differ between roles. According to the National Careers Service, you’ll need at least a 2:1 (upper second-class honours) to get a spot on a graduate scheme. Some employers allow a 2:2 (lower second-class honours). 

Do jobs for graduates require experience?

If you apply for a graduate scheme, employers will understand that you have no previous work experience but rather your degree-specific qualifications. 

Most graduate jobs are entry-level and require little to no previous work experience. However, you should start looking at the requirements well before you graduate in case you need to prepare for specific work experience. You are more expected to apply the knowledge gathered from your University placement, until now. 

 

Ready to pack up your room and start looking for a graduate job? If you have any questions about leaving your accommodation with iQ, don’t hesitate to reach out and talk with a team member

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Heather M

I'm looking after all things Content and Social here at iQ, helping residents make connections and share their best year yet. I studied Communications and Law in Canada. My best year yet?  Well, this one isn't looking too bad.