At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Data Science Graduate Programme and tackle real-world regulatory challenges.
- Company: FCA, a leader in regulating UK financial services.
- Benefits: £36,000 salary, flexible working, health care, and 25+ days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while developing your data science skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in data science required; no specific experience needed.
- Other info: Dynamic two-year rotational programme with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We offer you the chance to start your career and make a real difference.
Programme Length: Two years
Programme Type: Rotational
At the FCA, we regulate financial services firms in the UK to keep financial markets fair, thriving and effective. By joining us, you\’ll play a key part in protecting consumers, driving economic growth, and shaping the future of UK financial services. We\’re looking for graduates to join our diverse and highly capable teams across the FCA.
Overview
Our Data, Digital and Technology (DDAT) – Data Science Graduate Programme is designed to develop your career as a data scientist within the financial sector. As a graduate on this pathway, you\’ll work across our data, digital, technology, and innovation teams, gaining hands-on experience in applying data science to real world regulatory challenges. You\’ll build expertise in areas such as data analysis, machine learning, open finance, and artificial intelligence, directly supporting smarter, data-driven decision making at the FCA. Your rotations will immerse you in technical projects, ranging from developing analytical models and building data visualisation dashboards to coding and deploying solutions that enhance regulatory outcomes.
You must have a degree background in data science to apply for this programme.
Throughout the programme, you\’ll be encouraged to contribute to strategic planning, shape data architecture, and support the design and governance of digital solutions. You may also have the opportunity to deliver research and insights that inform FCA activities and drive thought leadership in FinTech, RegTech, and EmTech.
Your first two rotations are selected to build your technical skills and sector knowledge, setting a strong foundation for your career in data science. Your career goals and interests will be considered when your final rotation is selected, aiming to support your aspirations and the FCA\’s strategy.
The programme will prepare you for roles specialising in data science.
Learning & Development
Our two-year programme is designed to equip you with the skills and confidence to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment. Centred on the FCA\’s values of self-sufficiency, resilience, ambition, engagement, and integrity, you\’ll be supported in developing personal effectiveness, advancing professional capabilities, and making a meaningful impact.
You\’ll benefit from:
- Formal learning aligned to your development goals
- Bespoke induction and training
- Networking opportunities
- Social events with your graduate cohort
- Opportunities to hear from senior speakers across the business
What We Look For
We are looking for candidates who are curious and eager to develop in a professional environment. Your ability to build relationships at all levels and understand and analyse data will help you succeed in a role here. Our colleagues are from a wide range of backgrounds; you can apply for our regulatory scheme with any degree. You don\’t need to have any specific experience; you\’ll learn through working in your team alongside experienced colleagues.
What We Offer
- £36,000 salary
- Rewarding work environment and flexible working options
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Wellbeing resources and support
- Private health care
- Career and family leave
- Non-contributory pension
- Charity and volunteering initiatives
- Minimum of 25 days\’ holiday
- Sports and social clubs
- Subsidised on-site fitness centre (London only)
- Free eye tests
- Subsidised restaurant
- Interest-free season ticket loans
Application Process
Submit your online application by midnight, Sunday 30th November 2025. Please apply early, as application windows may close if we receive a high volume of candidates.
Only one application is accepted across our early careers programmes within any six-month period.
You must have obtained or be on track to achieve a minimum 2:1 degree from any university. Applicants for the 2026 graduate programme must have graduated or be in their final year of study.
Graduate scheme offers are subject to candidates independently obtaining and maintaining permission to work in the UK for the duration of the programme.
Join us and shape the future of financial services – we look forward to receiving your application!
Your application and any work you submit throughout the recruitment process must be your own. Do not allow another person to complete any part of the assessment or submit responses generated by an AI assistant or similar software.
We welcome applications from all candidates. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and graduate scheme – you can request support from Employability at any stage.
For queries, contact earlycareers@fca.org.uk
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2026 Data, Digital & Technology - Data Science Graduate Programme- London employer: FCA
Contact Detail:
FCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Data, Digital & Technology - Data Science Graduate Programme- London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the FCA or alumni from your university who are in similar roles. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just land you a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common data science interview questions and practice your answers. We recommend using real-world examples from your studies or projects to showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for data! During interviews, share your thoughts on current trends in data science and how they relate to the financial sector. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge about the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the FCA and ready to make an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Data, Digital & Technology - Data Science Graduate Programme- London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Data Science: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for data science shine through! Share specific examples of projects or experiences that sparked your interest in the field. We want to see your curiosity and eagerness to learn.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to align with the FCA's values and the specifics of the Data Science Graduate Programme. Highlight how your skills and experiences relate to the role and how you can contribute to the team. We love seeing candidates who do their homework!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured responses that make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Apply as soon as you can through our website to ensure you don’t miss out. Early applications help us manage the volume of candidates and give you a better chance of standing out!
How to prepare for a job interview at FCA
✨Know Your Data Science Basics
Make sure you brush up on your data science fundamentals. Be prepared to discuss concepts like machine learning, data analysis, and coding languages relevant to the role. The FCA is looking for candidates who can apply these skills to real-world challenges, so having a solid grasp of the basics will help you stand out.
✨Show Your Curiosity
The FCA values candidates who are curious and eager to learn. During the interview, share examples of how you've pursued knowledge in data science or related fields. This could be through projects, coursework, or even personal interests. Demonstrating your passion for the subject will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about how you would approach specific data-related challenges in a regulatory context. Practising these types of questions can help you articulate your thought process clearly and show how you can contribute to the FCA's mission.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Building relationships is key at the FCA. Make an effort to engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about the programme and their experiences. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values and career aspirations.