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Applying for Jobs in the UK

Applying for jobs in the Uk often involves multiple stages. These can include: 

  • Completing an online application 
  • A pre-screen or phone interview 
  • One or more formal interviews – in person or online 
  • Assessment tasks: tests, presentations, case studies 

 These pages will help you tailor your applications, so you present yourself effectively to UK employers. 

  • What do UK employers want?

    Discover what skills employers want from graduate applications 

    Discover jobs in demand in the future 

    Prefer an interactive e-learning course?

    Click on the image below to set up a Targetjobs account and access this and other Pathway courses.

    Help for international students to understand what UK employers want, Targetjobs Pathway mini course

  • CVs, letters and applications for UK jobs

    CV, An image of a keyboard and a printed CV

    Resumes in the UK are called CVs and are typically 1-2 pages long. You will also need to also include a cover letter. If English isn’t your first language, ask a friend to proofread your CV/application. 

     Here are some resources to help you get started: 

    How to write a CV 

    Learn how to write a successful job application  

    There are more information resources in the CVs, Applications and Interviews area for each Subject. To access these, click here. 

    Additional help 

    Careers are here to help. You can submit your draft CV/application/letter to us for feedback. Click here to find out more. 

  • Explaining your international qualifications to UK employers

    You will need to explain your international qualifications to UK employers, so they understand how they compare. Here are some steps to help you do this: 

    Become familiar with the UK Qualification Framework (NQF) 

    Contact UK ENIC for a Statement of Comparability – there may be a fee for this 

    Read the UCAS guide to International Qualifications: 2015-international-qualifications.pdf 

  • Promoting your skills as an international applicant

    As an international student, you are likely to have many skills which you could promote to a prospective employer. For example: 

    Adaptability and resilience 

    Moving to a new country and adapting to a different environment requires a great deal of resilience and a high degree of adaptability. It shows you can handle difficult situations and that you are resourceful 

    Cultural awareness 

    Your experience of different cultures will have broadened your perspectives enabling you to work successfully with people from diverse backgrounds. 

    Language skills 

    If you speak multiple languages, this is a highly valued skill which employers value. 

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