1. What qualifications do I need?
A higher degree qualification (MSc or PhD) or equivalent is required.
2. What degree subjects should I have studied?
Your degree, higher degree and any additional qualifications must be relevant overall to the technical cadre you wish to join.
3. Can I apply if I graduated some years ago?
Yes. What you have done since graduating will be taken into account.
4. Do I require relevant work experience?
Relevant work experience is essential
5. I need a work permit. Can I apply?
No. To be eligible to apply, you must be:
6. Can I apply if I am a DFID employee or a Civil Servant?
Yes. Anyone can apply if they meet the entry requirements
7. Can I apply to more than one cadre?
Yes. If you meet the entry requirements you can apply for more than one cadre
8. When can I apply?
The 2013 Scheme will open on 17 December 2012 and applications will be accepted until midnight UK time on 31 January 2013
9. Where will I be based?
For the first year you will be based in either our Glasgow (East Kilbride) or London (Whitehall) joint head office
10. Do I have a choice of postings overseas?
No. Depending on your cadre and role, you may be posted anywhere, including a fragile environment
11. What is the salary?
A Set rate of £30,000 per annum
12. Can I apply for internal DFID jobs during the three years of the scheme?
Yes, you can apply for internal DFID jobs towards the end of your placement. Your application will be subject to the Civil Service employment application rules
13. Can I also apply to the Civil Service Fast Stream graduate recruitment scheme?
Yes, you can apply to the Civil Service Fast Stream programme at the same time as applying to this scheme. The application process and programmes are separate and will not have an impact on each other
14. What is the recruitment process?
Once we have received your application form, it will be thoroughly assessed. If your application has been successful at this screening stage, you will be invited to an assessment centre at our Glasgow (East Kilbride) office.
The assessment centre is an opportunity for us to find out more about you. You will be invited as part of a group of applicants and the day will consist of a number of tasks for you to complete individually or participate in as part of a group exercise. These will include an interview, a short presentation and a group discussion exercise.
Assessment centres will likely take place in March and April 2013.
15. If I am successful, when will I start work?
If successful, your placement at DFID will start in June 2013. The exact start date will be confirmed in your letter of appointment
16. Can I defer entry if I am successful?
No. If you already know that you have commitments which will prevent you starting work in June 2013, we advise you to consider waiting and apply again in the future
17. Are there special procedures for candidates with disabilities?
DFID is an equal opportunities employer and we will do all we can to accommodate individual requirements. Please contact us by email at DESA_Enquiries@dfid.gov.uk regarding your requirements and we will contact you
18. Question not answered in FAQs?
Please contact us by email at DESA_Enquiries@dfid.gov.uk with your specific questions
19. I don’t have a National Insurance number. What do I put in that box on the application form?
It should consist of two letters, then six numbers, then one letter, e.g. AB123456C. In this case please put TM followed by your date of birth then F for female and M for male M.