Graduate FAQs

I have applied for the Veterinary Surgeon Graduate Programme, will I receive a response?

Yes. After you apply via our careers website, we’ll email to let you know we have your application and when we’ve made a decision. You can log into your account to check your application status at any point.

If I am not successful, will I receive feedback?

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide feedback on unsuccessful Applications (Stage 2) due to very high volume of applications that we receive. We do provide feedback if requested to those candidates that have attended an Assessment Centre (Stage 3).

Do you pay expenses to candidates travelling to interviews/assessment centres?

No. Unfortunately we do not pay any travel; or other expenses, although we will pay for accommodation to cover the night before the Assessment if required.

Will I be required to travel during the programme?

Yes. During the graduate programme, you’ll need to travel regularly between PDSA Pet Hospitals and offices

Can I pick my base PDSA Pet Hospital?

We’ll ask for your preference in the application process and try our best to take this into account; however, we cannot guarantee this is where you’ll be offered if you’re successful.

What happens after the programme finishes?

During the second half of the Programme we encourage grads to, apply for any permanent or temporary vacancies within PDSA and we have a great track record of our grads choosing to do this and further their careers with PDSA.

Do you have any other graduate opportunities?

As part of PDSA Talent we will have other graduate opportunities that we will advertise as they become available.

Do you support work permits?

Yes. We support valid work permits but we do not sponsor them. You will need to have a right to work in the UK for the duration of the graduate programme.

I have a disability – will this affect my application?

PDSA is an equal opportunities employer and all applications are welcome. If you need us to make reasonable adjustments for you, please let us know as part of your application.

I have not graduated yet, so how can I tell you my degree classification?

Please indicate your expected degree result.

If my application is successful, when would I start?

We are looking for successful graduates to start in September.

Can I defer my start date?

No. Unfortunately we cannot accept deferred applications. If you are looking to have a gap year, we would be pleased to receive an application from you when you are ready to start with us.

If I am a postgraduate or already have work experience, am I still eligible to apply?

Yes. We would be delighted to receive an application from you if you have graduated in recent years. We do not have an age limit. However, the Veterinary Surgeon Graduate Programme best suits graduates with under 18 months’ relevant experience.

Does the London position have a weighting payment?

Yes. Should you secure a position at a London PDSA Pet Hospital within the M25, you’ll be entitled to receive a London weighting allowance in addition to your salary.

How do I contact HR?

Call: 01952 290999

Email: joinus@pdsa.org.uk