Recruitment for Student Placement Scheme launched

Finance Minister John O'Dowd today launched the recruitment competition for the 2026/27 Civil Service Student Placement Scheme.

Approximately 125 placements are available across government departments.

There will be a general competition with approximately 100 placements available across a wide range of areas such as accountancy, project management, communications, science, agriculture, environment, ICT, economics, policy and law.

There will also be a separate competition for the Construction & Infrastructure categories with approximately 25 placements available in areas such as architecture, engineering, surveying and planning.

Placements offer an annual salary of £25,796 per annum, an attractive benefits package and peer support available through the Civil Service Student Network.

Launching the scheme, Minister O'Dowd said: “I am pleased we can once again offer students the opportunity to work in the Civil Service, one of the largest employers here.

“Placements are available in a wide range of areas offering an excellent opportunity to gain valuable and practical experience in a professional working environment.

“I would encourage those eligible to apply. Working in the Civil Service not only enables students to develop their skillset and contribute to the delivery of public services, but also to help improve the lives of our citizens.”

Marketing student Caitlin Lowry, who is undertaking a placement in NICS HR, added: “This opportunity has allowed me to develop my skills and gain hands-on-experience across a variety of projects and events.

“A placement within NICS is a fantastic way to apply what you learn at university, build confidence in a professional environment, and set a strong foundation for your future career.”

Fellow student Lewis Orr, who is also placed in NICS HR, said he was gaining valuable experience across a range of tasks and projects.

“I have enjoyed taking ownership of meaningful tasks that contribute to the department and have already gained skills that I didn't realise I would.

“I quickly moved on to higher responsibilities and had the opportunity to connect with fellow students and network at events. Placement within NICS is a great opportunity.”

More information on the range of placements and details on how to apply are available at: www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk/studentplacements

Applications close at noon on Friday 24 October 2025, with placements starting during the period July-September 2026.

Notes to editors:

1. The competition is open to students currently studying towards an undergraduate degree, who will have successfully completed their second-year examinations by the end of the 2025/26 academic year and who have the opportunity to undertake a placement of up to 51 weeks for the 2026/27 academic year.