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Overview

The application form is often your first contact with a recruiter and plays a key role in deciding whether you progress to the next stage of the selection process.

Many graduate roles require you to submit an online application form, while some may ask for a CV and covering letter. You may be asked to submit all three. It’s essential to recognise the differences between application methods and to follow the instructions provided. Preparation is key to submitting a high-quality application.

Before you start: Prepare

Preparation is one of the most important, and often overlooked, stages of completing an application.

Most employers use online application portals that you’ll need to create an account for.

Key points:

• Keep a record of login details
• Use a professional email address
• Familiarise yourself with the application’s sections and, where possible, read them all before completing the form
• Check whether the system allows saving progress
• Prepare answers in Word if needed
• Submit early to avoid technical issues
• Always keep a backup copy

Before writing anything:

• Review the job description and person specification (note the experience, skills and qualifications it asks for)
• Research the organisation
• Refer to any application guidance. Do they provide a view on use of generative AI?

Ask yourself:

• Is this the type of work I want?
• Is this an organisation I want to work for?
• What are the responsibilities and objectives of the role?
• What skills, knowledge and experience are required?
• What relevant experience, skills and personal qualities can I offer?
• How well do I meet the criteria? Do I have the evidence to prove it?
• Do I have enough information to apply and if not, how can I find out more? Always speak with the recruiter if you need any extra information or wish to discuss the application process.

Focus on evidence

Employers look for evidence-based answers that demonstrate how you meet their requirements. Stating that you have a skill is not enough. You must show it through examples.

Use examples from a wide range of experiences, such as:

• Academic work and group projects
• Placements and internships
• Part-time or full-time employment
• Volunteering
• Extra and co-curricular activities

Clearly name the skills you are demonstrating (e.g. teamwork, communication, problem-solving) to make it easy for recruiters to identify them.

Structuring your answers

A strong structure helps you stay focused and concise. Try using:

STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or
CAR (Context, Action, Result)

• Situation/Context: Briefly set the scene (Where did this take place?)
• Task: What you needed to achieve
• Action: What you did and why (this should be the main focus)
• Result: What happened, what you achieved, and what you learned

Where possible, quantify results using numbers, percentages, or timeframes to prove impact or improvement. Explain how you have applied what you learned to later situations.

Supporting statements / additional information

Many roles, particularly in the public sector, require a supporting or personal statement. They’re not to be confused with a personal statement for an academic application. These statements focus on how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification.

To write an effective supporting statement:

• Use the person specification as your structure
• Address every essential and where possible, desirable criterion with an example from your experience
• Where appropriate, group similar criteria together to help you write concisely and avoid repetition
• Use clear sections or subheadings to refer to the criteria, if this helps provide clarity and flow to your writing
• Support each point with specific evidence using STAR or CAR
• Demonstrate suitability by reflecting the language used in the job description

Don't attach your CV instead of completing a supporting statement. You may be asked to upload a CV in a separate section of the application form.

Drafting your application

Most people cannot complete an application in one sitting. Well-prepared answers take time but result in stronger applications.

• Draft your answers in Word so you can edit, spell-check and save your work
• Decide which of your examples best fit each question
• Try to vary examples across different sections
• Be specific and focused, rather than vague or general
• Use examples from the last two years when possible. Don’t be afraid to use older experience if it’s your most relevant or strongest example.

If referees are requested:

• Usually provide one academic and one work-related referee
• Two academic referees may be acceptable if you have no work experience
• Always ask permission before listing someone as a referee

Key application rules

• Follow all instructions carefully and give yourself plenty of time to apply
• Take word count into account. Don’t exceed it but aim to get as close to it as possible
• Use headings or bullet points to break up longer responses if appropriate
• Keep responses concise and evidence-based
• Complete every section of the form. Write “Not Applicable” where relevant
• Proofread carefully for spelling, grammar and correct word usage
• Don’t rely solely on spell-check software
• Don’t rely on generative AI to compose your answers. Gaining inspiration is fine but ensure your responses are authentic
• Ask someone else to review your application before submission

Resources

Gain tips and ideas on completing successful applications with the below resources: 

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