Completing your application form
The application form is your chance to demonstrate that you have the skills, attributes and experience needed for the role you want.
Sometimes you’ll be asked to complete an application form rather than sending a CV and covering letter. You may be asked to upload your CV as well as completing the application form.
We've put together our top tips for completing a great application, and we can help you out by reviewing your application too.
Application forms can take longer than you think to complete, so give yourself enough time to apply - especially if you'd like us to review your application. You can usually save your progress as you go along, so you don't have to complete it in one go.
We can help
Here's how we can support you with your application forms.
If you’ve struggled with application forms in the past or you're not sure your application hits the mark, we can help. Upload your next application to your documents on Handshake and request a review by sending us a message.
The form will usually be split into sections, including:
- Personal details
- Education (if the form won’t let you enter your qualification type, contact the recruiter)
- Employment history
- Application questions
- References
The application questions will usually be in one of these forms:
- Personal statement
- Series of questions about your skills and experiences
- Series of specific, work-related questions
- Use the word count well - these questions are your chance to prove to the employer that you can do the job, so take time to answer the questions properly.
- Address the skills and experiences required in the job description. Don’t use up words talking about skills that are not mentioned.
- If you are thinking of using AI (artificial intelligence) to complete application questions, have a look at some of the things to consider as an applicant.
- Give good examples from your work experience and education to demonstrate your skills and experience. Saying that you have the skill is not enough, you have to prove it with examples. Use the CAR method to help you:
Using the CAR method
CAR (Context, Action, Result) is a good way to structure the examples you give:
Context: briefly set the scene for your example. ‘In my part-time work in a busy coffee shop…’
Action: explain what you did. ‘...I demonstrated leadership skills by mentoring new employees and assisting the supervisor during busy periods...;’
Result: explain the outcome. ‘Leading to me being promoted to supervisor where I managed four colleagues and dealt with any problems that occurred during my shift.’
- Write clearly and concisely. The application is a chance to show you have good written communication skills.
- Proofread, and consider asking a family member or friend to check it. We can give you feedback on your application but we do not provide a proofreading service. Use Texthelp tools to get your computer to read out your answers to help you spot mistakes.
- Find space to explain why you want the job and what attracts you to that employer.
- Example questions and answers from Prospects
You may be thinking about mentioning a long-term health condition or disability in your application form, or you might want to ask for adjustments in the recruitment process to ensure you have a fair chance to demonstrate your suitability for the job. For more help with this, see our page for disabled and neurodivergent students, and talk to us about any concerns or questions you may have.