Applications: Getting Started

In the UK, you apply directly to sponsor companies instead of applying to the college. The companies make all your college arrangements for you. Here's our guide to getting started with your applications, and some of the frequently asked questions.

We provide a full list of companies and organisations that recruit cadets in our Company Profiles section. Each profile tells you a little bit about the company, their entry requirements and how to apply.

It's best to apply to as many companies as you can, as long as you meet their entry requirements and you think you would enjoy working for them. If you really can't see yourself working, for example, on a passenger ship or a dredger, then it's probably best to leave them out.

I've sent my application but the company hasn't got back to me yet!

Each company is different and some may take several weeks before replying to your application. Contact details are provided in each of their profiles if you wish to establish the progress of your application. Give it a few weeks before you get in touch though; recruitment departments tend to be busy places. If you can, making a polite phone call instead of emailing can often leave a positive impression.

I've been rejected?!

Companies vary widely in their annual cadet intake numbers, entry requirements and their ideal candidates. Persevere! There are plenty of companies recruiting cadets. If you can, ask for feedback as to why your application was unsuccessful. This will often help in future applications.

I've passed the interview and been offered a place on a cadetship, what happens now?

The company you have been offered a place with will choose the college that you will attend to study at and send you an offer letter. They will want you to get your ENG1 medical certificate, and may also ask you to apply for your Discharge Book and visas.

I'm not happy with my companies choice of college!

It may be worth contacting them and explaining your reasoning, however, it is not unheard of for a company to choose the college furthest away from your home so that you can acclimatise with being away for long periods of time.

Where can I find more information regarding the College I will be going to?

Have a look at our College Profiles!

Image by Justin Scott Campbell, kindly licensed for re-use under the Creative Commons BY-ND 2.0 licence.