How to apply for a role with the British Council and what to expect from the process.
We want you to have the best opportunity to succeed, so we've kept our application process simple. Here's how it works:
- Upload your CV onto our careers portal. We'll match you to available jobs based on your skills and experience.
- If you wish to apply for a specific role, you'll be asked to provide a few more details on our short application form. You can also sign up to our Talent Network where we'll keep you informed about other opportunities that become available. .
- You might be invited to a phone call with a member of our Talent team. Be ready to tell us more about your experience and why you want to work for the British Council.
- Assessment stage- this depends on the role you've applied for. It could be a one or two stage interview and could include a task.
- Outcome - if you're successful following your interview, we'll be in touch to give you the good news. After this stage it's onto the paperwork and completing onboarding tasks such as referencing, right to work and any relevant background screening checks.
During the application stage please check both your inbox and junk mail for updates, as some email domains may send alerts to the junk file.
Frequently asked questions about the application process
Once I have applied, when will I hear if I have been selected for an interview?
When you submit your application, you will receive an automatic email to confirm that it has been submitted successfully (if you don’t receive this, please check your junk folder).
We aim to get back to candidates within a few days of the vacancy closing date. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to offer feedback if your application is not shortlisted for interview.
Can I get feedback if my job application is unsuccessful?
Whilst we appreciate the time and effort put into completing your application, regrettably due to the number of applications we receive we are not able to provide feedback to candidates who are not invited to interview.
How do I best prepare for the recruitment process with the British Council?
Our application and interview process differ depending on the role you are applying for. For many of the roles we advertise we are looking for specific skills and experience so it’s essential you think about these when you submit your CV, write your supporting statement and prepare for your interview where relevant. Explore the British Council website and read up on Our Values and the job advert beforehand as this is what you will be measured against.
Who do I notify if I am unable to attend my interview or need to change it?
Please contact your recruiter who emailed you to arrange your interview if you can no longer attend. Please ensure you let us know at least 48 hours in advance of your interview.
Find out more about how we manage diversity.
The British Council are committed to safeguarding everyone we interact and work with. To support this, we carry out background screening of all new employees in line with the applicable laws, regulations and British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children. These checks cover areas such as employment and qualification verification, identity and criminal record, financial probity and barred lists.
We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989.