What is the closing date for application?
What qualifications do I need to apply?
Do I need the unrestricted right to work in the UK?
What if I don't have an honours degree, are there any other opportunities available?
Can I apply for more than one business area?
What does the application process involve?
Can I obtain a paper-based copy of the application form?
How fast is an offer made?
If I were offered a position, when could I expect to start?
Can I defer my place for a year?
What should I do if I have a disability that may affect my performance in any stage of the selection process?
Are existing members of staff in the Group eligible to apply for the Graduate Programme?
I am not a recent graduate and have some years' work experience. Can I still apply?
Is there an upper age limit for applicants?
What if I don't have e-mail?
How long are the Graduate Programmes?
Is there a probationary period for Graduates on the Graduate Programme?
Can I apply for a position in a specific geographical location?
Are relocation expenses paid?
Does Coutts support study for external qualifications?
Do I have access to a mentor?
Does it matter if I have no experience in the financial industry?
What is the closing date for application?
Applications for the 2009 Private Banking programme will close at midnight on 30 November 2008 and for the Specialist Advice programme at midnight on 31 December 2008. If you are successful at the on-line stage, you will be placed into a pool of candidates. You will be informed if you are invited to an interview approximately one week after the application deadline. Those successful at interview will be invited to an Open Day in London to learn more about Coutts before returning for a one-day assessment centre in early January 2009.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
To apply for the programmes, you must meet the following academic criteria:
· At least a 2:1 (Hons) degree in any discipline with a minimum of 320 UCAS points (or equivalent).
· For the Specialist Advice programme you must have an ‘A’ level or Scottish Higher (or equivalent) in a numerate subject such as Maths, Physics, Chemistry or Statistics.
· Previous work experience which does not have to have been within the financial sector (eg permanent or temporary roles, internships, vacation work, sandwich placements etc).
· The intellectual calibre and stamina to gain professional qualifications while holding down a demanding job and the potential to identify and apply effective wealth management strategies for clients.
Do I need the unrestricted right to work in the UK?
Yes. The positions on our Graduate Programme are full-time, permanent roles. This means that at the time of your application you must have the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK. If you are unsure, please visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website www.ukvisas.gov.uk. Select 'How to apply'. When that page opens, select 'Application Forms and Guidance'. The information is contained in a series of PDF documents that are listed at the bottom of the page under the 'Guidance Notes' section. Please note that during the selection process you will be required to provide evidence of your entitlement to work in the UK.
What if I don't have an honours degree, are there any other opportunities available?
You must have an honours degree to join our Programme. For other opportunities in The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, not specifically on a Graduate Development Programme, please see national and local press and www.rbs.co.uk on the Working for the Group page.
Can I apply for more than one business area?
No, you must choose between Private Banking and Specialist Advice within Coutts. We encourage applicants to be committed to a career within one particular business area.
What does the application process involve?
We are using a secure online application process that is thorough, manageable in terms of your time and provides you with a response as quickly as possible.
Can I obtain a paper-based copy of the application form?
We are unable to offer this facility. Our application process is fully internet-based. If you require special facilties to complete the application form, please contact us through the message centre on the apply page.
How fast is an offer made?
Offers are made within one week of you attending your Assessment Centre.
If I were offered a position, when could I expect to start?
You would commence your Graduate Programme in early Autumn 2009, most probably in September.
Can I defer my place for a year?
We are currently unable to offer you this facility. If you are offered a place on the programme for 2009 you must commence your placement in the Autumn of that year.
What should I do if I have a disability that may affect my performance in any stage of the selection process?
The Royal Bank of Scotland Group is an equal opportunities employer, and we will make reasonable adjustments to the selection process where necessary. If you think you have a disability that may impact on your performance anywhere in our selection process, please email us at rbsgraduates@tmp.com with further details. In addition, during the selection process you will be asked if you require any special requirements, including dietary, to ensure we meet your needs.
Are existing members of staff in the Group eligible to apply for the Graduate Programme?
Yes. The Programme is open to suitably qualified members of staff. You must meet the minimum criteria and will have to apply through the same channels as other graduates.
I am not a recent graduate and have some years' work experience. Can I still apply?
Yes, as long as you meet our minimum requirements. Coutts encourages applications from graduates who have some work experience, whatever the area.
Is there an upper age limit for applicants?
There is no upper age limit for applicants.
What if I don't have e-mail?
Our communication is by e-mail and telephone during the selection process. An e-mail account can be set up free of charge through various suppliers. Details are available from your local public library.
How long are the Graduate Programmes?
The Private Banker and Specialist Advice Graduate Programmes are both 2 years.
Is there a probationary period for graduates on the Graduate Programme?
Yes, 6 months.
Can I apply for a position in a specific geographical location?
On the Private Banking Graduate Programme, it may be possible to follow the Programme from a regional office such as Bristol, Leeds, Manchester or Birmingham, to name a few. The Specialist Advice Graduate Programme is based in London.
Are relocation expenses paid?
We provide a £3,000 sign-on bonus and this will help with your relocation costs.
Does Coutts support study for external qualifications?
Coutts is a strong supporter of professional qualifications, and graduate entrants are required to study for relevant professional qualifications. Financial support and study leave will be given to graduates when studying for business-related qualifications that have been agreed by their area.
Do I have access to a mentor?
Yes. You will have access to a more senior member of staff as a mentor who will provide support and guidance during your time on the Graduate Programme. The relationship between you and your mentor is driven by both parties. Your mentor is someone you can go to with any concerns you have about your Programme or any other issue. They act as a counsellor and helper, taking a personal interest in your career.
Does it matter if I have no experience in the financial industry?
No. Graduates are taken from all degree disciplines and from all backgrounds. However, it does help to have an active interest in financial services and private banking.