What to consider when applying for your graduate scheme

With over 800,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students leaving university every year in the UK alone, it's easy to see why the market for graduate schemes is a competitive one. 

With how competitive graduate schemes are in mind, this makes it crucial to really focus on and refine any applications you're sending out to potential employers so you stand out. 

At AtkinsRéalis, we know and appreciate that applying for graduate schemes can be stressful. That's why we've made our selection process easy to follow, designed to help you show us your best. 

We pride ourselves on an application process that levels the playing field providing applicants with materials and tools that support them in doing their best

Below, we've put together some advice to consider when it comes to graduate scheme applications. 

Successfully preparing for your application

Whether researching the industry and company, refining your CV, or focusing on skills development and networking, you'll have plenty of opportunities to make sure your application stands out.

When to apply for graduate schemes

It all depends on the company and industry. Many graduate schemes begin in September with some companies advertising roles from as early as one year before the job starts. 

Some graduate schemes are open for application all year round, while others open in autumn. It's best to research the route you're taking and see what is common for that sector. Many graduate schemes start in September and others start at different points throughout the year.

At AtkinsRéalis our graduate schemes typically open for application in September. Many remain open for much of the year. However, the popular schemes will close when enough applications are received, many will close in the Autumn so it's always best to get your application in early.

While you can apply for graduate schemes after you've already graduated, if you're looking to get started straight after your degree ends, it's advised to start research in your second year, or even your first year, and start applying in the autumn of your final year. 

How many grad schemes should I apply for?

This can vary depending on your degree workload, your extra commitments, and the industry you are applying in. 

It goes without saying, that with over 800,000 graduates each year, it's competitive, and the more you apply, the more chance you have at getting a place right? Well, not necessarily.

You'll want to focus on application quality, your availability, and the time it takes for applications, assessments, events, and interviews associated with any given scheme. 

If you're applying for everything relating to your degree or interests, you might be spreading yourself too thinly with the standard of your applications. 

We recommend assessing your time and then choosing to apply for between 5 and 10 schemes at any given moment. Start planning early and allocate specific time weekly for your applications to reduce last-minute stress.

Diversify your applications by including a mix of your dream companies, SMEs, and globally renowned companies. 

If AtkinsRéalis is of interest to you, it's worth mentioning that we welcome students from around 80 different degree backgrounds. That means you don't necessarily have to have studied an engineering-related degree for the chance to work with us, look at our Graduate FAQs for more information.

Do graduate schemes need references?

As well as the entry requirements, your graduate scheme application form might ask you for some references. It's good to keep this in mind when applying so you can request permission and contact details from your chosen references.

Many employers looking to hire new graduates will ask for an academic and a professional reference. 

An academic reference could be from a university tutor, teacher, or academic mentor. A professional reference can be a past employer, a mentor from somewhere you did placement, or any previous supervisors from part-time or seasonal jobs. 

Just make sure the referee knows you well enough to highlight your skills and qualities and ask in advance for their permission to be contacted.

How long after uni can you apply for grad schemes?

If you graduated over a few years ago, you'll be pleased to know that many employers don't specify a time frame for the graduates they hire.

Many top graduate companies have a rolling annual recruitment process, so don't worry if you're unsuccessful when applying for your dream opportunity the first time. You can apply the following year when you've worked on your industry experience a bit more too. 

When applying for our graduate roles at AtkinsRéalis, if you have two years of relevant work experience since graduating we recommend looking for other opportunities as the graduate route may not be appropriate due to the experience you will have already gained. 

Alternatively, if you graduate and then end up in a completely different job and then decide to apply for a graduate scheme then you can apply whenever - there isn't a strict time limit so you have flexibility when pursuing this opportunity. 

Start your graduate career journey with AtkinsRéalis

Now that you know some things to think about when you enter your graduate scheme application process, it's time to start researching your potential future employer and seeing what programmes they offer.

Our Graduate Development Programme sets you up for a successful early career by focusing on developing your industry skills, knowledge and experience. 

You'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals in a supportive environment from day one.

Many of our graduates care about making a difference in what they do, which is what we stand for at AtkinsRéalis. Our purpose is to engineer a better future for our planet and its people by creating sustainable solutions to bring the most complex projects to life across the globe.

Sign up to our Talent Community today or check out our current graduate opportunities.