If you are currently enrolled in any kind of graduate degree at the moment, chances are you’ve heard the term graduate scheme thrown around a lot. However, many people are still confused about what ‘graduate schemes’ are and all that it contains.

We’re here to clear up this confusion and answer the question, ‘What exactly are graduate schemes? And how do you make sure you get in the best scheme for you? Let’s find out!

Training Program

A graduate scheme is a structured training program offered mainly by large companies and organizations. It is mainly an entry-level training program that you can apply for if you have a degree. They are usually full-time and permanent.

Fixed Term Contract

These schemes are especially designed for recent university graduates to help ease their transition into the professional world. They are not a permanent employment opportunity; most companies only offer a fixed-term contract for 1 to 3 years. However, there is always the chance of being offered a permanent position if you do well in the graduate schemes.

Key features of a Graduate Schemes

A graduate scheme has a few key features that help set it apart. To start with, a graduate scheme lasts from about 1 to 3 years. They are exclusively for recent graduates and can be highly competitive.

Another key point is that a graduate scheme will have a structured training program for you to follow.

In our opinion, one of the most important features of these schemes is that they are designed in a specific way to make sure you get hands-on experience in many different areas of the organization, in this way, you can broaden your horizons and decide which department is the best one for you.

Another key feature is the mentorship. Graduates are usually paired with mentors. Whose responsibility it is to provide support, advice, and feedback.

Entry Requirements and Deadlines

Deadlines vary from organisation to organisation. The recruitment cycle starts every year from summer onwards. Particularly September to November are very busy months, with the majority of graduate schemes being advertised around that time.

However, there are some companies that will recruit all year round. Similarly, Smaller employers will often recruit when a position becomes available.

Entry requirements also differ according to the company and the position advertised. But at the very least you’ll need a a 2:1 (upper second-class honours) to get a place on graduate schemes.

In some situations, a 2:2 (lower second-class honours) is acceptable if you show potential and have a good CV.

Some companies only recruit recent graduates. Others will consider anyone with a degree.

Difference between a Graduate Schemes and a Graduate Job

Graduate jobs are typically full-time, permanent roles that you get after completing your studies. So, how is this different from a graduate scheme?

Well, unlike grad schemes, grad jobs don’t have a defined end date. As in it’s not a fixed contract position focused solely on training. So, with a grad job, your contract only ends when either you or the company decides. This is different from grad schemes, which have a defined end date before they even start.

Another difference is that Grad jobs also usually involve less training than schemes. This means that you will be learning on the go and will have much fewer opportunities to receive structured support and training.

Challenges of Graduate Schemes

Competitiveness: One of the main challenges is that grad schemes are often highly competitive. There are many applicants trying to get a spot, thus, securing a spot can be difficult.

Preparation: To overcome this problem, make sure you do your research into the company you’re applying to and tailor your CV and Cover letter so that it highlights all the skills the company might be looking for in a grad student.

Workload: Another challenging aspect of the scheme is the workload. Grad schemes can be demanding, with training, assessments, feedback, etc. But don’t let this scare you; it’s nothing that can’t be handled with the help of a little hard work. Just remember to do your best.

No Guarantee of a Permanent Role: It’s very important to keep in mind that not every graduate who secures a spot in a grad scheme will be offered a permanent position after the program ends.

Don’t let these challenges scare you. A grad scheme is one of the best ways for graduate students to transition into the workplace and learn with the help of first-hand experience. Even if you are not offered a position by the end of it, it’s still an amazing opportunity that will no doubt look great on your CV.

Benefits of Graduate Schemes

Rotational Experience: Grad schemes often rotate the graduates around different projects, so, you get a complete view of the company and the daily tasks of every department. This is very helpful in deciding what truly interests you and where you would like to see yourself in the future.

Networking and Connections: Another benefit of grad schemes is that they allow you to connect with senior stakeholders, which is great for networking in the future.

Shaping Experience: Grad schemes help you build skills quickly as you’re given real responsibilities while receiving training. It helps you shape your experience.

Leadership Skills: You’re also likely to receive training on management and leadership skills.

Professional development: Graduate schemes provide structured training to enhance your professional growth.

Networking opportunities: They help you build valuable connections with colleagues and senior stakeholders.

Building your skillset quickly: You gain hands-on experience and develop essential skills in a short time.

Conclusion

In the end, the biggest benefit of grad schemes is that your career progress will be faster and more focused than if you weren’t on a grad scheme. So, even though graduate schemes can be challenging to score a spot in, they are worth a try.

There are many different ways to find a graduate scheme that is right for you. So get an early start and contact Enrollmate now!