Explore the benefits of joining a graduate scheme and see our tips for finding opportunities at home and abroad.

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Graduate schemes

Graduate schemes are structured training programmes that give you the chance to experience various aspects of an organisation and undertake an accredited qualification (if the role requires it). 

Schemes are mainly offered by large organisations and are highly competitive, accounting for under 10% of all graduate jobs. 

At Sussex, we offer Sussex Graduate Associates. This is where you work on campus with a professional services department and develop your employability skills. 

If you are an international student, the government’s Graduate visa route allows you to work in the UK after you graduate for two years, if you are an undergraduate or Masters student, or three years, if you are a PhD student.

Tips for finding graduate schemes

If you’re interested in joining a graduate scheme, it’s a good idea to start researching employers and their schemes.

You can:

Searching for schemes 

Graduate schemes are also well-promoted via major graduate job sites, including: 

How to apply 

To apply for a graduate scheme you usually have to:

Employers often visit campus to offer information and tips on their recruitment process. 

If you’re an international student and interested in joining a graduate scheme, you can find out more about working after your studies and see our tips for applying for a job.

When applying, some employers will ask for UCAS points and GCSE grades. It is possible to get a Statement of Comparability from UK Naric, although they cannot convert your grade scores to UCAS points. You may need to contact employer for further advice about individual grade equivalences, or use the note’ or additional information’ section to explain your qualifications.

Graduate schemes abroad 

Some graduate schemes give you the opportunity to live and work overseas as part of the programme. We have listed some below, by sector. You may be required to have the right to work in the country to which you are applying. Check the details carefully for each scheme.

Further help and advice

If you need careers advice you can book an appointment with one of our careers consultants via CareerHub. 

You can also:

  • visit the Student Centre Welcome desk, 8.30am-5pm, Monday-Friday
  • call 01273 075700, 9.30am-4.30pm, Monday-Friday.

See more from How to find a job after university