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TSR Wiki > Life > Gap Years and Travel > Gap Year Programmes

A number of companies are operating gap year schemes which are a great opportunity to gain work experience, as well as earn a competitive salary. Unlike applying to typical jobs, the roles on these jobs are more similar to graduate positions, so you’re likely to pick up some essential skills for your future employment.

Contents 1 Applying 2 Programmes 2.1 IBM 2.2 Deloitte 2.3 Pricewaterhouse Coopers 2.4 KPMG 2.5 Rothschild 2.6 Arup 2.7 Accenture 2.8 Bank of England

Applying

Since these programmes are often oversubscribed, you are encouraged to apply as early a possible. The recruitment process is mostly similar between these companies, with online forms, aptitude tests and often two or more rounds of interviews. A lot of people tend to apply during September/October, in line with the UCAS application. Usually the companies are looking for strong predicted grades and extensive details can be found on company websites.

If you plan to apply to university, it’s usually best to apply normally and defer your place if you manage to get a place on one of these programmes in case you’re unsuccessful.

Programmes

This is not a comprehensive list of companies to work for. If you have a decent covering letter, writing to any firm about an internship can’t hurt your chances. You may also want to look at the Year in Industry.

IBM

The Futures scheme is a nine month position in a range of roles from finance and business operations to IT and software development. IBM offers a range of options for the final three months of the scheme, which includes staying on, trying a new role in the company, charity work, an expedition with Raleigh International, or just doing your own thing. Salary is £13,000 per annum, with up to £2,000 in bonuses (2008). Last year’s applications process started in November.

Deloitte

The Scholars Scheme is a 30 week placement in professional services working in roles such as tax, audit and consulting. Deloitte also offer a travel bursary, paid work during university and an academic bursary each year, provided you are on target for a 2:1. Salary is £20,000 per annum. Deloitte is currently taking applications.

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

PwC's Gap Year Programme is a seven month placement in a range of professional services roles. PwC may offer you university sponsorship and a travel bursary. Salary is £20,000 per annum. Last year’s applications process started in October.

KPMG

The Gap Programme is a six month placement in professional services in audit, tax or transactions services. Salary is £14,500 per annum. Last year’s applications process started in September.

Rothschild

The Rothschild Gap Year Placement is a six month London-based placement in an investment bank. Applications will open in November 2008.

Arup

The Arup Pre-university Placement is a nine month scheme in an engineering consultancy. Arup also offer opportunities for summer placements and sponsorship of engineering degrees.

Accenture

The Horizons Scheme is an eight month London-based placement in technology consulting. Accenture offer a £20,000 salary per annum and a £1,500 travel bursary. Last year’s application process started in September.

Bank of England

A gap year at the Bank of England is a London-based placement working in operations. The salary is £15,000, with a performance bonus of £2,000. Last year’s scheme opened in January.