We've tried to answer as many questions as we can, but if you've thought of any we haven't, just e-mail your enquiry to us at graduaterecruitment@arriva.co.uk

Before your application

What if I have special requirements and need help completing my application?

Is there a minimum/maximum age for your programme?

No, Arriva is committed to diversity and recognises and accepts that all types of people can be successful at work. The selection process for our graduate programmes ensures that individuals are selected and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities alone.

I'm thinking of taking a year out after university.
Should I apply now?

Our online recruitment system does not allow for deferred applications. We advertise our vacancies each Autumn for the following year's graduate programme, e.g. apply now for a Autumn 2011 start. If you are interested in receiving e-mail vacancy alerts, please click here to register.

Do you offer undergraduate work experience?

Individual Arriva businesses may offer work experience, but you will need to contact them directly to find out.

Can I register for graduate vacancy alerts?

Yes. Please click here to register for graduate vacancy alerts. When you register we will ask you a few questions about your preferences. When a job goes live that matches your preferences, we will e-mail you straight away.

What if I have special requirements and need help completing my application?

We're happy to help - give us a call on +44 (0)191 5252012. We're an equal opportunities employer and want to do everything we can to make our application process as fair as possible.

Can I reapply if I have applied before?

You can only reapply for any of our programmes after six months. You'll go through the same selection and assessment process as other candidates. Before you commit to reapplying, think carefully about why your last application was unsuccessful.

What vacancies are available and at which locations?

Our vacancies span Europe and are available through our UK Bus, UK Trains and Mainland Europe divisions. When you go through to applying online, our opportunities are listed by division. However, the more flexible you are in terms of location, the easier it will be for you to find a suitable role.

How long does it take to apply online?

Your initial application should take less than 30 minutes to complete. It’s a good idea to have an electronic copy of your CV handy, so you can copy and paste the relevant parts into the application form. Then you'll have to answer a few open ended questions, which should take about 15 minutes.

The Application Stage

What's the best way to apply?

Please apply using our online application system.

What's the closing date for applications?

We don't have one. However, we fill vacancies when we find the right people, so some programmes may fill up faster than others.

What if I am on holiday during the interview dates?

We usually try to offer you an alternative but depending on the status of vacancies, this isn't always possible.

Will Arriva pay my expenses if I come to an Assessment Event?

Yes, any reasonable expenses.

Can I apply to more than one of Arriva's Graduate Programmes?

The programmes offer very different opportunities. It is unlikely that more than one will fit your career preferences. Identify the most suitable programme for you and apply only to that programme. Duplicate applications will be disqualified.

How can I find out about the progress of my application once I have submitted it online?

Once you submit your application form we'll send you details of how to log in to our application centre. From there, you can view the progress of your application.

Successful applications

Where will I be based?

This will depend on the Arriva division and business you join. You need to be willing and able to work in various locations, so that you can experience at least two different business placements during the programme.

Will you help with relocation?

Some assistance may be offered on a short-term basis.

Do I get a company car?

No, you are not entitled to a company car whilst on the graduate development programme.

Will I carry out project work during the programme?

Yes, within your allocated business. There may also be the opportunity to do Arriva-wide projects.

What are the opportunities like for working overseas?

Placements will initially be within the Arriva division you apply to. Depending on your performance, you may get the opportunity to work in a different Arriva division and / or another European country. International placements require graduates to prove language competence