Prepare for NHS Graduate Scheme 2024

The NHS's Graduate Scheme is a two-year programme (two and a half for finance) where graduates will experience what it is like to really work at the NHS and receive special training.

The NHS will support graduates in achieving a post-graduate academic or professional qualification.

Upon completion, graduates will be provided with support to further enhance their careers within the NHS.

There are a number of different steps in the NHS application process which have been outlined below.

Recruiting and Qualifications

Currently, the NHS graduate training scheme is offered in four positions:
1) General Management
2) Finance Management
3) Human Resources Management
4) Health Informatics Management

In order to be eligible to apply for the Graduate Scheme, candidates are required to meet at least one of the following requirements:   
✔ A 2.2 degree or higher in any subject.
✔ A degree level equivalent to the above that are health or management related, which include:

NHS Hiring Process Stages

The first stage of the NHS application process requires you to complete a fairly basic online application form as well as a questionnaire used as a self-assessment tool to determine your motivation to work for the NHS.

This questionnaire is not reviewed by a staff member, but if you don’t answer yes to every single question you will be asked to ensure that you really want to work for the NHS before applying.

If this application is successful, you will receive an email inviting you to book your appointment on the PearsonVue platform, along with your username.

On your exam date, you will sit up to two tests provided by Talent Q - a provider of aptitude tests.

Recently, NHS changed its test provider to Talent Q.

Talent Q tests mainly aim at measuring test-takers’ verbal, numerical and logical reasoning capabilities. These assessments are timed, and one’s exam score will be compared against those of other candidates, so that only the most capable employee is hired.

For this reason, answering questions correctly and speedily may put an individual ahead of their competition.

The NHS Graduate Scheme exams include:

⦿ Verbal Reasoning Tests
⦿ Numerical Reasoning Tests

The Talent Q verbal reasoning test aims to assess one’s verbal skills in a multitude of areas. Passages are presented along with related questions, which test-takers must answer by; choosing which words fit in the gaps then ranking which follow-up sentences offer the most comprehensive summary of the provided written information.

The Talent Q numerical reasoning test evaluates one’s numerical abilities, specifically determining how well test-takers can point out relevant information, understand numerical-based data, solve problems and comprehend visual data.

On the CAPP (also known as Cappfinity) numerical reasoning assessment, candidates will be shown numerical data which they will need to use when answering questions. The answers on this exam may be presented as multiple-choice or open-ended.

Once you have passed the NHS online tests you will be invited to the come in for an NHS interview.

This is a competency-based interview and in it, you will have to provide examples of where you have demonstrated the core competencies mentioned in your job application.

In general, these competencies fall into the following categories:
✔ Compassion
✔ Commitment to a high-quality care service
✔ Everyone counts
✔ Improving lives
✔ Respect and dignity
✔ Working together for patients

When preparing answers for this interview, ensure that you include the relevant competencies in your answers.

This NHS interview is normally held by two consultants of the NHS and usually lasts half an hour.

To practise and acquire some valuable NHS interview tips, try out our interview preparation package.

If you do well enough through these stages, you have already beaten more than half of the competition.

Find out about what will happen in the NHS assessment centre on the next page.

1. Read the test instructions and questions carefully – When taking your NHS exam, take the time to read through the test, since skipping over important information can guarantee failure. The wording used on the CAPP tests is designed to trick you, so make sure to keep an eye out for the small details.

2. Take your time answering test questions – make sure to take as much time as possible within the time limit to answer questions as accurately as you can. 

3. Don’t let the stress affect your performance – It is true what they say, being nervous can negatively impact how well you do on a test. When you feel panicked and overwhelmed, you may have a harder time concentrating on the task at hand. Taking a deep breath and focusing on each question at a time can ease your nerves and give you the confidence you need to succeed.

4. Learn how to calculate mathematical functions – Since the numerical reasoning exam is one of the more difficult Talent Q tests, the best way to properly prepare is to practise solving numerical problems. Try going over some basic functions, to help you enhance your mathematical skills and familiarise you with ratios, percentages, fractions and many other subjects that you may face.

5. Practise – Practise makes perfect when it comes to passing Talent Q assessments. Start preparing for your upcoming aptitude tests now by utilizing our high-quality Talent Q preparation pack. You will receive the most updated, all-inclusive practice tests, study guides and drills you need to succeed. Start practising today!

By preparing to take your upcoming NHS graduate scheme aptitude test, you will receive everything you need to improve your test scores and gain confidence as well.

Our NHS graduate scheme PrepPack™ includes simulated resources and test material, to help you discover where you need to improve and how to do so.

Landing your dream job is possible when you take time to practise!