At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a two-year rotational programme to shape the future of UK financial services.
- Company: FCA, a leading regulator ensuring fair and effective financial markets.
- Benefits: £33,000 salary, flexible working, health care, and 25+ days holiday.
- Other info: Diverse teams, networking opportunities, and support for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:1 degree; no specific experience required, just curiosity and eagerness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 27600 - 39600 £ 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.
About the Programme
Our Regulatory Graduate Scheme provides a comprehensive introduction to financial regulation, offering you the chance to rotate across multiple divisions within the FCA, including Authorisations, Policy, Supervision, Market Oversight, Enforcement, and Risk Management & Compliance. Over two years, you'll gain hands-on experience across the regulatory lifecycle, preparing you for a dynamic career in financial services.
You'll develop technical expertise in financial services, learn how regulatory frameworks operate, and play a vital role in protecting consumers and ensuring market integrity. The programme focuses on building core skills in judgement, engagement, self-management, and delivery. During your rotations, you may support vulnerable consumers, conduct investigations, help shape strategy, or supervise firms.
Your first two rotations will be confirmed before you join, your career goals and interests will be considered when your final rotation is selected, aiming to support your aspirations and the FCA's strategy. This programme will prepare you for a career in our Regulatory profession.
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
- £33,000 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.
We have created the FCA Candidate Preparation Zone so you can find out more information about our assessment process and practice some tests. 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. We welcome applications from all candidates. You will be required to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK before joining the FCA's graduate programme. Offers are subject to your ability to obtain and maintain your right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme. There are Government restrictions on who can be sponsored. Due to government-imposed criteria, not all of our graduate programmes are eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship. We can only consider offering sponsorship where the job meets the Skilled Worker Visa eligibility criteria. If you will require a Skilled Worker Visa, please ensure you meet the Home Office eligibility criteria before applying for a place on the Scheme. You can check eligibility at Skilled Worker visa: Overview - GOV.UK. Please be aware that it's your responsibility to explore avenues of working in the UK, as we are not able to provide advice on this. You must inform the FCA immediately if there is any change to your immigration status. 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 Join us and shape the future of financial services – we look forward to receiving your application.
2026 Regulatory Graduate Programme - Edinburgh employer: Financial Conduct Authority
The FCA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive environment for graduates to launch their careers in financial regulation. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from tailored learning opportunities, networking events, and a focus on personal and professional growth. Located in Edinburgh, the FCA provides a rewarding work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and a competitive salary, making it an ideal place for those eager to make a meaningful impact in the financial services sector.
Contact Details:
Financial Conduct Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Regulatory Graduate Programme - Edinburgh
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Financial Conduct Authority. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Regulatory Graduate Programme - Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Financial Conduct Authority.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Financial Conduct Authority's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Financial Conduct Authority
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Financial Conduct Authority.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Financial Conduct Authority will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Financial Conduct Authority employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
