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Publication - Advice and guidance

Graduate Development Programme: candidate guide 2026

Last updated
13 February 2026 - see all updates
Directorate
People Directorate
Topic
Work and skills

Guidance for candidates applying to the 2026 Scottish Government Graduate Development Programme.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools

Artificial intelligence (AI) software such as ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot and Gemini are powerful tools which can help to enhance your application and prepare for the recruitment process, but it is essential you use them appropriately. 

We have published useful guidance for candidates on using AI tools, which includes acceptable and unacceptable uses at each stage of the recruitment process.

Read our guidance for candidates about using AI Tools.

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

 

First published
28 March 2023
Last updated
13 February 2026 - show all updates

  1. Key updates made to assessment timings in the assessment centre guidance.

  2. Updated to Key dates and minor punctuation edits.

  3. Addition of new section of guidance for candidates invited to Assessment Centre.

  4. Updates made to technical support section of 'Getting ready for assessment' section.

  5. This guide has been refreshed for the latest graduate programme recruitment round, with updated details on programme structure, nationality eligibility, the role of AI in applications, guaranteed interview schemes, and revised application and assessment processes.

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