When to Apply

Applications open on 19th December 2022 for the September 2023 intake and close on 14th February 2023.

Step 1: Registration

To begin your application, you can apply through Civil Service Jobs.​

Step 2: Online Tests

There are three online tests to complete: verbal, situational judgement and numerical tests. You only move on to the next test if you have met the minimum requirements of the previous test. The verbal test will be first, and if you meet the minimum requirements, you move through to the situational judgement test. Again, if you meet the minimum requirements of the situational judgement test, you will then complete the numerical test. Please be aware that there may be a delay between completing your situational judgment test and numerical reasoning but you’ll have plenty of time to do these. You will need access to a laptop/desktop computer.

Step 3: Personal Statement

If you have met the minimum requirements of the online tests, you will be invited to complete a personal statement of no more than 1000 words. Your statement should include the following: Why you are interested in the apprenticeship; How you are planning to balance work and study; How you are planning to keep yourself motivated and keep track of your performance. Following this, you will receive an outcome by the end of March 2023 if you are successful at both the online tests and sift of the personal statement and will be invited to the assessment centre.

Step 4: Two-stage Assessment Centre

As part of the virtual assessment centre, we will evaluate your suitability for the job in two sections through a combination of tasks and activities. Initially, you will undertake a written exercise and following this you will be invited to complete a presentation and interview.

For hints and tips from current apprentices on the application process and how to stand out, download the GES DAP Candidate Pack here.

Application animation

One of the civil service’s apprenticeship recruitment leads, Michelle, has created a short animation packed with useful hints and tips, which can be viewed here: