What Is a Graduate Job?

Getting a job after you graduate might seem like a lifetime away, but it’ll probably come round closer than you think. You've probably seen grad jobs and schemes advertised, but you might not know what these terms mean.  

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about graduate jobs so you’re as prepared as possible when the time comes. We’ll include: 

• What’s a graduate job?
• What’s a graduate scheme or programme?
• What’s an entry-level job?
• When to apply for graduate jobs
• How many graduate schemes or jobs should you apply to?

What’s a graduate job? 

A graduate job is a fairly broad term that refers to any job that requires you to have an undergraduate degree. They’re typically permanent roles, and they’re found in almost every industry and sector.  

At a grad job, you’ll have a clear job role and be expected to contribute as soon as you start. They might offer training and opportunities to build your career, but unlike a graduate scheme, this might not always be the case.  

What’s a graduate scheme or programme? 

This is slightly different from a grad job. A grad scheme typically lasts one to three years and is a structured training programme that includes both work and in-house training. Some will even include study for a professional or accredited qualification relevant to your industry.  

Although grad schemes are common in a range of industries, they’re most common in professions such as banking and accounting. Getting into a good graduate programme can be highly competitive, and there’ll often be an intense application process, including psychometric tests, interviews, and assessments. However, don’t let the thought of hard work put you off - many grad schemes offer high salaries and amazing career opportunities! 

What’s an entry-level job? 

You might have also come across the term ‘entry-level’ jobs. Grad jobs and schemes might be called entry-level jobs, but this broad term also applies to any job that requires no previous work experience. This could be a junior position in your field, an unrelated role or even a part-time job in a restaurant.  

Entry-level roles won’t offer the same training and career advancement opportunities as grad schemes. However, many positions will still offer some kind of professional development and a pathway to develop a career.  

When to apply for graduate jobs and schemes  

Employers will recruit for entry-level positions throughout the year, but many graduate jobs and schemes will have a set application deadline. If you're in your final year at uni, start applying for opportunities as soon as possible to give you the best chance of finding a job. 

Most graduate employers start recruiting in September, with a deadline of November or December and a start date in the following autumn. Some industries will open for applications even earlier. For example, investment banking grad schemes open in August and close as early as October. However, some graduate roles will be advertised throughout the year, so don’t panic if you’ve already missed this window.  

The graduate recruitment process can be lengthy and time-consuming, especially for competitive grad schemes at large companies, and will likely involve many stages. Some graduate positions will be advertised as ‘immediate start’. These are targeted towards recent graduates or those in their final months of studying and will have a much quicker application process.  

How many graduate schemes or jobs should you apply to? 

Ultimately, how many grad positions you can apply for will depend on how much time you have available. Getting a good grad job might seem incredibly important, but you shouldn’t put so much time and effort into your job applications that you neglect your university work.  

Although you can apply for as many roles and schemes as you like, it’s best to focus on a few positions. This will allow you to research each employer fully and put enough detail into each cover letter to give you the best shot at landing your dream grad job! 

How UniHomes can help 

Researching and applying for grad schemes isn’t always easy. Why not make your final year as easy as possible by choosing an all-inclusive student property? This way, you can spend less time thinking about your household bills and more time finding the perfect graduate opportunity.  

UniHomes has a comprehensive landlord and letting agent network with all-inclusive student properties in student cities across the UK. All the properties on our site include uncapped energy bills. With everything included in your monthly rent payment, there’s no need to worry about trying to split bills with your housemates or setting up utility accounts! 

Contact us today to learn more about how all-inclusive student accommodation works, or look at the properties for rent in your student city.