Graduate Development Programme: candidate guide 2026
Guidance for candidates applying to the 2026 Scottish Government Graduate Development Programme.
Introduction
This guide provides information for candidates who are considering applying for the Scottish Government Graduate Development Programme 2026.
With up to 20 places available and strong competition expected, this guide will:
- help you understand the structure of the programme
- prepare you for the recruitment process
- maximise your chances of submitting a successful application
For more info about the programme, visit the dedicated page on our careers website.
You can keep up to date with notifications about our graduate programme by following us on social media:
Facebook: ScotGovJobs
X (Twitter): @scotgovjobs
Intake for the Scottish Government Graduate Development Programme is currently every two years. The next planned intake after 2026 will be in September 2028.
Contact
To learn more about careers at the Scottish Government, visit our careers website.
You can also keep up to date with notifications about the Graduate Development Programme by following our social media channels.
Facebook: ScotGovJobs
X (Twitter): @scotgovjobs
If you have a specific question relating to recruitment you can e-mail us at: ScottishGovernmentrecruitment@gov.scot