Job search and applications

Effective job searching involves using a range of approaches to identify opportunities. This page provides guidance on speculative applications, finding work in Oxford, searching for jobs outside the UK, and looking for immediate work or accommodation.

A strong application clearly demonstrates how your skills and experience match the employer's requirements. This page provides guidance on identifying job criteria, presenting relevant examples, and making the most of your experience.

Make your applications stand out with practical guidance on CVs, cover letters, application forms, academic applications, references, and creative portfolios.

Interviews are an opportunity to demonstrate your skills, experience and motivation. Explore guidance to understand different interview formats, develop effective interview techniques, make a strong first impression, and prepare confidently for your next interview.

Psychometric assessments are commonly used by employers to evaluate candidates' abilities, behaviours, and potential. This page provides guidance on psychometric tests, including how recruiters use them, the different types of assessment, preparing for aptitude tests, advice on taking assessments (including the use of AI), requesting adjustments, and further support and resources.

Many employers use assessment centres to evaluate candidates' skills, behaviours, and potential through a range of selection activities. This page provides guidance on assessment centres, including how to prepare, common activities, virtual and hybrid assessment centres, top tips, requesting adjustments, and further resources.

The recruitment process doesn't end when you receive a decision. This page provides guidance on handling job offers, responding to rejection, and planning your next steps.

The rules about working in the UK are complex and subject to change. This is a brief guide to some of the options.