Northern Ireland Civil Service launches 110 paid student placements

Approximately 110 paid student placements have been announced across Northern Ireland government departments for the 2027/28 academic year.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd launched the recruitment competition on Monday, with successful applicants receiving an annual salary of £25,796.

The programme offers undergraduate students the opportunity to gain practical experience in government departments before completing their degrees.

Opportunities across government

Around 90 placements will be available through a general recruitment competition covering areas including policy, law, accountancy, communications, marketing, forestry, environmental science and ICT.

A separate competition will offer approximately 20 placements in construction and infrastructure disciplines, including architecture, engineering, surveying and planning.

Successful candidates will also receive employment benefits and access to peer support through the Civil Service Student Network.

Who can apply?

The competition is open to students currently studying towards an undergraduate degree who will have successfully completed their second-year examinations by the end of the 2026/27 academic year.

Applicants must also have the opportunity to undertake a placement lasting up to 51 weeks during the 2027/28 academic year.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd encouraged eligible students to apply, highlighting the opportunity to develop professional skills while contributing to public services.

Applications close at noon on Friday 23 October 2026.

Placements are expected to begin between July and September 2027.

External link: Civil Service student placements — details and applications

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