Everything you need to know about applying for graduate schemes in the 2026/27 cycle.
So you're finishing uni and wondering whether a graduate scheme is the right move? It's a big call, and it's completely normal to feel a bit stuck on it. If you want the lowdown on the best graduate schemes in the UK and how to actually land one, you've come to the right place. We're breaking it all down, from what a graduate scheme even is to how to bag yourself a spot.
Choosing between a graduate scheme and a graduate job takes a fair bit of forward planning, so the earlier you get your head around your options, the better. Whether you're sure a scheme's for you or you haven't got a clue what happens after graduation, here's everything you need to know for the 2026/27 cycle.
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What is a graduate scheme?
At its simplest, a graduate scheme is an entry-level job with a structured training programme built in. It gives you the chance to explore different parts of a company, build up your experience and work across a range of projects, all of which helps you figure out what kind of role you'd actually like to do long-term.
It's a brilliant way to try loads of different job functions, work out what you're into and, just as usefully, what you'd rather steer clear of.
Graduate schemes typically last between one and two years and are aimed at recent graduates, with lots of them kicking off pretty soon after uni wraps up. Once your scheme comes to an end, you'll often be offered a permanent contract, or you can take the skills you've picked up and apply them elsewhere.
What's the average salary of a graduate scheme?
Graduate schemes pay a full-time salary and often start higher than your average entry-level job. Every company and scheme is different, but the best graduate schemes tend to offer really competitive pay.
According to salaries submitted to Glassdoor, the average UK graduate programme pays around £33,000 a year in 2026, with most sitting somewhere between £28,000 and £40,000. That's just an average, though, and it varies massively depending on the company and industry.
Some schemes pay a lot more, especially in finance. Goldman Sachs' New Analyst Programme in London, for example, is widely reported to start at around £55,000 a year, and you don't need previous experience in the field to apply. (Goldman Sachs doesn't publish an official figure, so treat this as an estimate based on recruitment sites rather than a confirmed number.)
What's the difference between a graduate scheme and a graduate job?
Good question, because they're easy to mix up. There are actually loads of differences between the two.
Graduate schemes:
A structured training programme that runs for one to two years and might end in a permanent contract
They focus on a specialism such as HR, finance or marketing, which is great if you know your sector but aren't sure which specific role suits you
You work across multiple projects and job functions to build a wide range of skills
They can be competitive and often involve assessment centres, where you'll be up against other candidates for a place
Places are limited, so you'll need to prove you're the right fit
You'll usually need a 2:1 or above, though some schemes are open to a 2:2
Schemes are often at big-name companies, so you could land a role at a major employer straight out of uni with no experience
Graduate jobs:
An entry-level job you can apply for at any point after uni
Often advertised specifically for graduates, so they're not expecting loads of experience
You can apply for as many as you like
The process isn't as competitive as a graduate scheme
You've got freedom over what you apply for and can search job sites for roles you'd be good at
You'll have a set role and team, whereas a scheme moves you around different roles
Entry-level jobs are sometimes paid a bit less than schemes, but it depends on the industry
Entry requirements are more flexible, and your degree classification might not matter as much
You'll most likely be on a permanent contract with room to grow and move up
What about graduate schemes if I have a 2:2?
Got a 2:2? Don't panic, it's really not the end of the world. Loads of schemes ask for a 2:1 or higher, but plenty give candidates with lower grades a chance too. Just bear in mind that schemes are competitive with limited places, so you could be up against people who landed a first.
It's always worth checking whether the scheme you're eyeing up is open to a 2:2. If it isn't, or you find you're not getting far in the process, don't sweat it — it's often much easier to land a graduate job with a 2:2 than a scheme.
Tonnes of graduates with a 2:2 go on to land jobs they love. Once you've got a foot on the career ladder and some real-world experience behind you, no one's going to care about your degree classification if you can show you're brilliant at what you do.
What are the benefits of a graduate scheme?
You learn on the job and get to try out different roles
You're given plenty of training and responsibility from day one
Solid starting salaries
It looks great on your CV and helps with future applications
The chance to work for a big or prestigious company straight out of uni
A high chance of landing a permanent role once the scheme ends
What are the drawbacks?
There's a lot of competition for a place
The assessment centres and applications can be long and pretty daunting
You might end up on projects or in roles you don't love
You may need to travel a lot, or work late or at weekends
There's no guarantee of a permanent job at the end
Leaving a scheme early doesn't always look great to future employers (though if you're genuinely not happy, you've got to do what's right for you)
When do graduate schemes open for 2027?
If you're aiming for a 2027 start, timing really matters. Most graduate schemes for 2027 graduates open in autumn 2026 and run their assessments through the winter, with offers going out in early spring. Some sectors move a lot earlier, though — banking, finance and consulting schemes often open in the summer and fill up fast, so keep an eye on those.
Start by researching the companies you'd love to work for and noting their deadlines. Places are limited, so if you miss a deadline you'll usually have to wait for the next intake. In short, don't leave it too late.
It pays to start looking as early as you can. If you're a penultimate-year student, you can even line things up before your final year to get ahead of the game. For a full rundown of what's closing when, take a look at our guide to graduate scheme deadlines.
Best graduate schemes and employers in the UK
Every year The Times publishes its Top 100 Graduate Employers list, ranking the companies hiring the most graduates in the UK. In the 2025-2026 edition, the Civil Service took the top spot, with PwC close behind in second. If you're on the hunt for the best graduate schemes, these big names are a great place to start:
How many graduate schemes should I apply for?
There's no magic number here — it's totally up to you. That said, applications can be long and time-consuming, so you don't want to burn yourself out.
Every scheme has its own process, but you'll usually be invited to an assessment centre for each one you get through on, where you might tackle a range of tasks as part of the interview stage.
It doesn't hurt to apply for as many as you're genuinely interested in, and casting a slightly wider net can boost your chances. Just don't feel you have to apply for every single scheme you spot.
Tips for applying for a graduate scheme
So how do you stand out from the crowd? Here are a few things to polish up your application:
Do your research — make sure you really know what the scheme involves and that it's something you'd actually want to do.
Apply for smaller programmes — schemes at big companies are seriously competitive, and missing out often isn't a reflection of you, just the sheer number of applicants. Smaller schemes tend to have fewer applicants, so they can be easier to land.
Highlight your skills on your CV — the good thing about schemes is that everyone's fresh out of uni with little work experience, so you can stand out by showcasing the skills and achievements you picked up while studying.
Be prepared for interviews — they can feel scary, but a bit of research goes a long way. Have a read of our guide to the most common graduate interview questions with answers so nothing catches you off guard.
Put time aside for applications — you want yours to shine, so give yourself enough time to fill it out properly and explain exactly why you'd be a great fit.
Alternatives to graduate schemes
If a graduate scheme isn't for you, that's completely fine. Just because your mates are applying doesn't mean you have to, or that you won't land a well-paid job after uni.
If a scheme's not your thing, you could try:
Entry-level jobs — not everything is advertised as a graduate role, but loads of companies are always hiring entry-level positions open to people with little experience who want to learn. Having a degree is often enough, so research a few industries and see what's out there.
Freelancing — if the traditional nine-to-five isn't calling your name, working for yourself is a great shout, especially for creative roles or if you've already got a skill or side hustle you're smashing.
Temporary part-time work — if you're not sure what you want yet but need the money, a temporary part-time job is no bad thing. Retail or hospitality can be a great way to earn some cash while you figure out your next move. There's no set timeline for deciding your career, so take your time and think it through.
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