Graduate Development Programme: candidate guide 2026
Guidance for candidates applying to the 2026 Scottish Government Graduate Development Programme.
The application process
The Graduate Development Programme features a 5-stage application process:
- stage 1: initial application (including personal statement)
- stage 2: online assessment
- stage 3: statement review
- stage 4: virtual assessment centre
- stage 5: offers and pre-employment checks
Stage 1: initial application
To apply, you must complete the online application form available on our careers website.
The application window opens on 22 September 2025 and closes at 23:55pm on 5 October 2025. We are unable to accept applications after the closing date.
To complete the online application, you need to provide personal details and information about your qualifications (achieved or expected), you will be required to complete a Personal Statement (up to 350 words) answering a specific question which is included in the job advert.
All candidates are required to submit a personal statement with their application, but we will only review statements for candidates who pass the second stage (online assessment).
Personal statements will be assessed at stage 3 of the assessment process, so it is recommended that you spend some time in advance of your application planning what you want to include in this.
We recommend preparing your Personal Statement in a separate document before applying. This will allow you to save a copy for future reference, and also avoid losing any work if your connection drops.
Please note: you’ll be asked to provide diversity information as part of the application process. This information is for monitoring purposes only and does not affect the progress of your application.
Stage 2: online assessment
Our graduate programme receives a high volume of interest and applications. To ensure a fair and consistent selection process, we use an online assessment which is focused on testing the key criteria listed in the advert.
This approach is standard practice and frequently used across graduate and high-volume recruitment in both the wider public and private sectors.
We have partnered with SHL, a global leader in graduate assessments, to deliver a research-backed online test that reliably measures behaviours linked to workplace success.
All applicants who complete an application will be invited to undertake the online assessment. Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive an email with a link to access the assessment platform.
The assessment platform includes:
- information about the graduate programme
- information about the assessment
- information on how to request adjustments
- the online assessment for completion
The assessment is made up of two parts, each designed to explore key strengths relevant to the role. You will need to complete both parts (ideally in one sitting). Please note: the assessment can only be taken once.
We strongly encourage you to read the Getting ready for assessment section of this guide before starting. It includes important instructions on completing each part of the assessment, as well as details on system requirements, accessibility options, and how to prepare effectively.
If you are planning to use a screen-reader to complete the assessment, please contact us in advance to advise of this - we will provide an optimised version of the assessment for you to complete.
You’ll be able to complete the assessment up to 1 week after the application window closes.
Stage 3: statement review
Candidates who have passed the initial online assessment will progress to the next stage of assessment which involves a review of the statement provided at application.
Candidates are not required to provide any further information at this stage. When all statements have been reviewed the results will be communicated by e-mail.
Stage 4: virtual assessment centre
Candidates who have passed the online assessment and statement review stages will be invited to participate in a virtual assessment centre.
The assessment centre will include a series of activities, and an interview designed to allow candidates to evidence the core-skills required for the role.
Further information will be added to this guide and sent to candidates in advance of assessment centres, which are expected to take place in January/February 2026.
Stage 5: offers and pre-employment checks
If you have been successful, you will receive an e-mail to congratulate you on your success with a provisional offer of a place and details of the next steps.
Before you begin your employment with the Scottish Government you will need to complete a series of pre-employment checks, and you will be required to provide some documentation at this stage. Pre-employment checks confirm identity, right to live and work in the UK, qualifications, work history and criminal convictions.
Find out more about the different types of pre-employment checks.
It is anticipated that successful graduates will commence their employment and start the programme in early September 2026.
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