A graduate scheme is a specially designed work placement for graduates to allow them to enter employment immediately after completing their degree. A graduate scheme is seen as a premium position to fast-track yourself into a career. In return for your dedication and fresh skills, companies that offer graduate schemes provide you with direction, stability and the opportunity to succeed within your chosen career path. Graduate schemes tend to run for one year, an adequate amount of time to allow the graduate to build strong career foundations within their place of employment and understand the company’s operations. Investing time and money into a graduate by offering a graduate scheme does have its downfalls though. A graduate scheme is a fast-track career move, enhancing your performance through specific training, tuition and being allowed to “shadow” other employees to ascertain new skills. Graduate schemes are open to all, including international students, providing every student with a chance to undertake a valuable and promising career. It is wise to research which companies are offering graduate schemes and the best way to apply in plenty of time before your finish your degree as there are few positions and numerous applicants.