ApprenticeEdge›NHS›Application Timeline
NHSdegree apprenticeship
NHS Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026
Salary: £27,000–£30,000Length: 3–4 yearsAcceptance: 4–7%
The NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme (Degree Apprenticeship) application window is: Autumn — typically opens October for the following September start. Here's how to plan your timeline so you're prepared at every stage — not scrambling.
When to Apply
Application window
Autumn — typically opens October for the following September start
Apply in the first two weeks of the window opening. NHS makes rolling offers — seats fill before the official deadline closes.
Typical Timeline from Application to Offer
Week 0Application form submitted
Week 1–2Online assessments — SJT, numerical, and cognitive tests
Week 3–4Video interview invitation sent
Week 4–6Assessment centre invitation (if passed video stage)
Week 6–10Offer or rejection
Timeline is approximate. Actual timings vary by cohort and service line.
Preparation Timeline — Work Backwards
4 weeks before applyingResearch NHS — annual report, recent news, service lines
3 weeks before applyingDraft 5–7 STAR stories covering all key competencies
2 weeks before applyingPractice online tests with real providers (SHL, Korn Ferry)
1 week before applyingWrite and refine motivational answers — Why NHS?, Why now?
Before video interviewRecord and watch back a practice video interview
Before assessment centreRead NHS's latest news and know your STAR stories cold
Want the full prep pack?
NHS Apprenticeship Prep Pack
Application stages, competencies, real interview questions, commercial awareness, and a pre-submission checklist — in one complete pack.
More NHS guides
NHS Apprenticeship Interview Questions 2026NHS Apprenticeship Application Tips 2026NHS Apprenticeship Competencies — What They Test and How to PrepareNHS Apprenticeship Assessment Centre — What to Expect in 2026NHS Apprenticeship Video Interview — Format, Questions and TipsSTAR Method Examples for NHS Apprenticeship Interviews
Application Timeline guides for other companies
PwC Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026Goldman Sachs Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026Deloitte Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026KPMG Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026EY Apprenticeship Application Timeline and Deadlines 2026