At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore client challenges, support research, and contribute ideas in a dynamic consulting environment.
- Company: Join IBM Consulting, a global leader in technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Earn £25,000 per annum, enjoy 25 days holiday, and access exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience, build skills, and discover your career path in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at Grade 4-9 including English and Maths; 2 years further education.
- Other info: Perfect for those unsure about their next step; mentorship and growth opportunities await!
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 £ per year.
A career in IBM Consulting is built on long-term client relationships and close collaboration worldwide. You will work with leading companies across industries, helping them shape their hybrid cloud and AI journeys. With support from our strategic partners, robust IBM technology, and Red Hat, you will have the tools to drive meaningful change and accelerate client impact. At IBM Consulting, curiosity fuels success. You will be encouraged to challenge the norm, explore new ideas, and create innovative solutions that deliver real results. Our culture of growth and empathy focuses on your long-term career development while valuing your unique skills and experiences.
Please apply using the application form via Please Note. Roles will be open for applications from Tuesday 24th February to Monday 2nd March 2026. Expected Start Dates in June and July 2026.
IBM is a leading global technology company which helps organisations transform their businesses with innovative solutions and expertise. We are seeking highly motivated and ambitious individuals to join our consulting business for a 12-month university placement.
Our Futures Gap Year Scheme is a 12‑month paid placement designed to give you a real taste of what it is like to work in a global company. It is the perfect way to explore your interests, build confidence and understand what you might want to do next.
During Your Year With Us, You Will:
- Experience corporate life first‑hand
- Try different types of work and discover what you enjoy
- Build personal and professional skills that employers look for
- Learn about the careers of the future, including business, technology and digital roles
This programme is ideal if you are unsure about your next step. Whether you are considering an apprenticeship, university or something completely different, we will help you explore your options and understand what suits you best. You do not need loads of experience; just curiosity, energy and a passion for solving problems. Throughout the year you will forge meaningful connections, expand your network, interact with diverse teams, clients and leaders, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. We have a large community of mentors and coaches to guide you, offer constructive feedback and support your development.
What you might do:
- Help teams explore client challenges and spot opportunities
- Support research, analysis and simple problem‑solving tasks
- Use structured thinking to map processes or summarise insights
- Join workshops, brainstorming or agile team activities
- Contribute ideas and help shape recommendations
Your work will vary by project — but you will always be learning and supported.
What you will get:
- Hands‑on experience with real consulting teams
- Exposure to different industries and ways of working
- A supportive environment where your ideas matter
- A clearer sense of whether consulting suits you
If you are excited to learn, collaborate and make an impact, we would love to see you apply.
Competitive Benefits Package:
- Salary £25,000 per annum
- Holiday allowance: 25 days + public holidays
- IBM Rewards, Enjoy discounts and benefits at high-street shops
Required Technical And Professional Expertise:
- 5 x GCSE's Grade 4-9 (or equivalent) including English and Maths
- 2 Years Further Education completed (A Level or equivalent)
- Live within a commutable distance of your base location (London or Manchester) as you will be required on site for a minimum 3 days per week.
- Eligible to work in the UK full time for the duration of your internship (no visa sponsorship available)
Preferred Technical And Professional Experience:
- Curious about how organisations run and how problems get solved
- Adaptable, open‑minded and happy jumping between tasks
- Clear communicator who asks questions and shares ideas
- Collaborative, positive and eager to learn quickly
- Interested in consulting and excited to explore different areas
12-Month Futures Gap Year Scheme in London employer: IBM
Contact Detail:
IBM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 12-Month Futures Gap Year Scheme in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former IBM employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a spot in the Futures Gap Year Scheme. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by practising common consulting questions. Think about how you can showcase your curiosity and problem-solving skills. We want to see your passion for learning and adapting, so be ready to share examples from your experiences!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage with us! Follow IBM Consulting on social media, attend our webinars, and participate in any events we host. Showing genuine interest can set you apart from other candidates and help you learn more about our culture.
✨Tip Number 4
When you apply through our website, make sure to tailor your application to highlight your adaptability and eagerness to learn. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with what we’re looking for in the Futures Gap Year Scheme.
We think you need these skills to ace 12-Month Futures Gap Year Scheme in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and interests. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Futures Gap Year Scheme. Highlight your curiosity and eagerness to learn, as these are key traits we value. Show us how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for!
Show Your Passion: Express your enthusiasm for consulting and problem-solving in your written application. We love candidates who are excited about exploring different areas and contributing ideas. Let us know why this opportunity excites you!
Check Your Details: Before hitting submit, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism. And remember, apply through our website to ensure your application gets to us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at IBM
✨Research IBM and Its Culture
Before your interview, take some time to understand IBM's values and culture. Familiarise yourself with their approach to consulting, especially how they leverage hybrid cloud and AI. This will help you align your answers with what they value and show that you're genuinely interested in the company.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Since curiosity is a key trait they're looking for, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated this quality. Think about times when you challenged the norm or explored new ideas. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can translate into your role at IBM.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Ask about the types of projects you might work on or how the team collaborates. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Problem-Solving Scenarios
Given that you'll be involved in problem-solving tasks, practice articulating your thought process in tackling challenges. Use structured thinking to explain how you would approach a hypothetical client issue. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and readiness for the role.