The Student Room Group

Graduate Job

I’m currently seeking a graduate position in taxation. I study at a non-Russell Group university in London, where I achieved a 2:1 last year and am on track for a First overall.
Although I haven’t yet had in-person work experience, I’ve completed several virtual internships, including one with PwC through Forage, and a few others during college. Since September, I’ve been actively applying for graduate roles and internships, though I haven’t had much progress so far. I plan to begin reaching out directly to firms via LinkedIn from January onwards to expand my opportunities.
I’m aware that my university and my A-Level results (Economics, Computer Science, and Mathematics grades D, E, E) may put me at a disadvantage. However, I’ve grown significantly since then I’m now far more academically mature and motivated. My GCSE results were all strong (grade 6 and above), and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.
I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance on how to strengthen my applications or improve my chances of securing a graduate or internship position in taxation. I’ve already worked with a careers advisor to refine my CV and cover letter, and they’re much stronger than they were a few months ago.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated thank you!

Reply 1

Original post
by jjjnnn2004
I’m currently seeking a graduate position in taxation. I study at a non-Russell Group university in London, where I achieved a 2:1 last year and am on track for a First overall.
Although I haven’t yet had in-person work experience, I’ve completed several virtual internships, including one with PwC through Forage, and a few others during college. Since September, I’ve been actively applying for graduate roles and internships, though I haven’t had much progress so far. I plan to begin reaching out directly to firms via LinkedIn from January onwards to expand my opportunities.
I’m aware that my university and my A-Level results (Economics, Computer Science, and Mathematics grades D, E, E) may put me at a disadvantage. However, I’ve grown significantly since then I’m now far more academically mature and motivated. My GCSE results were all strong (grade 6 and above), and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.
I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance on how to strengthen my applications or improve my chances of securing a graduate or internship position in taxation. I’ve already worked with a careers advisor to refine my CV and cover letter, and they’re much stronger than they were a few months ago.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated thank you!

You’re doing great. the progress you’ve made really shows! If you haven’t already, take a look at the HMRC Tax Specialist Programme (TSP) and the Civil Service Fast Stream. They’re fantastic ways to get into taxation, gain professional qualifications, and build long-term career experience in the public sector.

Reply 2

Original post
by jjjnnn2004
I’m currently seeking a graduate position in taxation. I study at a non-Russell Group university in London, where I achieved a 2:1 last year and am on track for a First overall.
Although I haven’t yet had in-person work experience, I’ve completed several virtual internships, including one with PwC through Forage, and a few others during college. Since September, I’ve been actively applying for graduate roles and internships, though I haven’t had much progress so far. I plan to begin reaching out directly to firms via LinkedIn from January onwards to expand my opportunities.
I’m aware that my university and my A-Level results (Economics, Computer Science, and Mathematics grades D, E, E) may put me at a disadvantage. However, I’ve grown significantly since then I’m now far more academically mature and motivated. My GCSE results were all strong (grade 6 and above), and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.
I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance on how to strengthen my applications or improve my chances of securing a graduate or internship position in taxation. I’ve already worked with a careers advisor to refine my CV and cover letter, and they’re much stronger than they were a few months ago.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated thank you!

Check entry requirements for Big4 they aren't too bothered about A-Levels same goes for other banking institutions and accounting firms! What degree did you do? What are your interests?

Reply 3

Original post
by lcvesunny
Check entry requirements for Big4 they aren't too bothered about A-Levels same goes for other banking institutions and accounting firms! What degree did you do? What are your interests?


Thanks for the reply. All the graduate job and internship I saw they all required specific A Level grade in which I didn’t achieve. I am not bothered about the firm as long as it is to do with the tax field. I am currently final year accounting student.

Reply 4

Original post
by Fidelism
You’re doing great. the progress you’ve made really shows! If you haven’t already, take a look at the HMRC Tax Specialist Programme (TSP) and the Civil Service Fast Stream. They’re fantastic ways to get into taxation, gain professional qualifications, and build long-term career experience in the public sector.


I’ve heard about HMRC I’ll check that out. I’m not sure if I’m doing great though. My application are getting rejected or it wouldn’t even allow me to send in my application through just because of my A-Levels. My university is holding a couple careers event in which I am definitely attending.

Reply 5

Original post
by jjjnnn2004
Thanks for the reply. All the graduate job and internship I saw they all required specific A Level grade in which I didn’t achieve. I am not bothered about the firm as long as it is to do with the tax field. I am currently final year accounting student.

Have a look at Cooper Parry - a growing accountancy firm.

Reply 6

Cheers for the recommendation. Are you aware of any other firm that may have positions open but not as obvious to see online. I was planning on maybe messaging firms after January?

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