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Application forms

Many employers use application forms as part of their recruitment process. This page provides guidance on completing application forms, understanding the different sections, answering analytical and competency-based questions, and accessing further resources.

hands on a keyboard

Many graduate recruiters use online application forms. With this in mind, one rule is worth mentioning from the start: careful targeting is far more likely to lead to success than sending off numerous applications that are not tailored to each role and organisation.

It is very important to research the role, organisation and sector before completing the form, in order to demonstrate your suitability for the role. Allowing your motivation and interest to come through can make you stand out as a knowledgeable and attractive applicant. 

Completing Application Forms

Tips for online forms

  • Draft anything you write in a Word document, as your online connection to the application form may "time-out" or close without giving you notification. This will allow you to copy and paste your answers into the form when you are satisfied. Writing your application in Word also means you have the advantage of using the spelling and grammar checks, and you can review what you have written at a later date if you are invited to interview.
  • Make a note of the word limit before you write your answers, when you copy them into the actual form you may be cut off at the word limit automatically.
  • Don’t submit the form until you are completely happy with it and the process that may follow. For example, you may be expected to complete an online test shortly after submitting the form.
  • Avoid copying and pasting directly from applications in other webpages – some organisations have software to detect when this has been done.
  • If you are asked to include a CV and/or Cover Letter in addition to answering the questions on the form, make sure you do so.

General points

  • Be accurate, and plan how to use the space and word count/character limit available.
  • Check the form carefully, and ask someone else to review it.
  • Recruiters often communicate by email. Ensure that your email address and other contact details are correct (and appropriate: no need for gimmicky email addresses), and check your email account regularly!

Using AI to complete Application Forms

For further guidance, read our information page on AI in Job Applications and Assessments.

In summary we advise the following:

  • Check the stance of companies you are targeting. Many have published their policies on AI on their websites. The Oxford Internship Programmes host may also indicate their stance on AI, in their internship vacancy descriptions.
  • Keep in mind that recruitment teams want you to be honest and authentic in your applications and it is difficult to achieve that if you use AI to draft your answers. In using AI tools, you risk sounding generic and uninteresting.  
  • The view on AI varies greatly between employers. In the Careers Annual Employer Survey conducted in May 2025, we asked recruiters: ‘Do you allow or encourage the use of AI tools in the application or assessment process?’. Only 15% answered “Yes”: half of employers replied “No”, they do not want you to use AI in your applications.  
  • People hire people who demonstrate and articulate the skills outlined in their job descriptions – have faith in your own skills and be authentic.  

General Guidance

If you do choose to use AI tools, think about how you can use them effectively and ethically:

  • Think of it as an assistant, not a complete solution: AI can help to get you started, do initial research on a sector, offer a broad structure/framework, or help to “polish” your applications. However, it is never a substitute for well-researched, tailored and personal content.
  • Make it your own: AI-generated content is built on what others have written in the past, and will tend towards the most likely words and structures. This makes it more likely to be generic and lacking the personal touch that only you can provide. Customise the output to reflect your unique experiences and personality.
  • Check references and sources carefully: AI tools can generate inaccurate or outdated references. Always verify the information and ensure it aligns with your own research.
  • When in doubt: You will need to make your own judgement about whether or not it’s ethical and advisable to use AI tools. A question you should ask yourself:

“If the employer asked you whether you used AI tools, would you be comfortable telling them how and where you used them in your application/assessment process?” 

Further information

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