How to apply

Applications for 2024

Apply now for a place on the programme. The closing date is Sunday, 3 March 2024.

We are looking for University graduates who are ready to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, champion diversity and make a real difference to our community. 

Applications for the 2024 Future Leaders Programme are open and the programme is due to start in September 2024. Visit the jobs page to apply now. For more information about the application and recruitment process, read our FAQs.

Eligibility

You can apply for this programme if: 

You graduated from The University of Manchester/are a University staff member who has obtained a degree from Manchester or another university (including via the Manchester Graduate Internship Scheme) within the last two years when you start the programme (2022 or later).
You have or are predicted to achieve a 2:2 or higher in your undergraduate or postgraduate degree. 
You want to push yourself to the next level and become a leader in your chosen field.

Any offer of a place on the Future Leaders graduate programme will be subject to the applicant’s ability to demonstrate their right to work in the UK for the length of the programme. In light of prospective changes to the UK’s immigration rules, which are expected to be introduced over the coming months, a place on Future Leaders may not meet the salary criteria for sponsorship by the University under the Skilled Worker visa scheme.

Information about other visa options can be found on the Gov.uk website; check if you need a UK visa and/or a graduate visa.

Diversity and inclusion

At Manchester, we’re committed to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated. We encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including those from Black, Asian and minority backgrounds, graduates who identify as LGBTQ+, those with disabilities and/or neurodiversity, and those with caring responsibilities.

Guidance for applying

Information session

Check back here soon for further details on a planned information session that will provide more programme details and include the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

For more information about the application and recruitment process, take a look at our FAQs.

Application timeline

Below is an outline of what will take place once applications for 2024 open:

Applications open in February for approximately four weeks.
Online interviews will take place in April.
Assessment days will take place in early June, after exams are finished.

Application advice

Read our tips for applying to the Future Leaders programme:

Current Future Leaders participant Owen shares his top application tips if you're thinking of applying this year.
Learn Manchester’s values and highlight how these align with your own personal values and beliefs. Think about when you have demonstrated values similar to ours.
Be yourself. We truly value diversity and we want you to be your authentic self.
Tell us about your experiences – what you did, the outcome, and the overall impact of an activity, whether this was at work, University, or elsewhere. Be prepared to provide examples and evidence of your achievements.
We are looking for graduates with leadership potential. Our University Leadership Framework outlines what good leadership looks like at the University.
Learn about The University of Manchester. You probably know a lot about the University from a student perspective, but find out as much as you can about its reputation, heritage and impact.
Don’t put yourself under too much pressure – and don’t feel afraid to shout about your achievements.

Application form coaching

The University’s Careers Service are offering application form coaching where they check and provide feedback on your application before you submit. This is specifically for applicants who are from backgrounds currently underrepresented in senior roles at the University. You are eligible to access this additional support if you meet one or more of the following criteria:

You are from a low income background.
You are from a Black, Asian or ethnic minority background.
You are disabled.
You are a young carer.
You are care experienced.

If you are eligible and would like to receive application for coaching, please email your application in a word document (before you submit) to mgt@manchester.ac.uk stating “Future Leaders Application Coaching Request” in the subject line, and a colleague in the Careers Service will provide you with brief written feedback on your application. Response times will vary depending on the volume requests, but they will aim to come back to you as soon as possible.