Applying to GCHQ

Applying for a job at GCHQ can be a fairly lengthy process. So we want to let you know why it takes a little longer than usual and exactly what to expect. Plus, we can offer you some fantastic support during the recruitment process. If you have a disability or neurodivergent condition and would benefit from any reasonable adjustments (like extra time), please contact our recruitment team. And, if you’re not sure how we can help, we’d still encourage you to get in touch. There may be other ways we can support you.

Below is a brief outline of the application process.

1. We recommend using a desktop or a laptop to complete and submit your application. It’s a thorough form and you’ll need to provide attachments.
2. You’ll need to register on our website and let us know a little more about your skills, experience and immediate family.
3. Then we’ll ask you to complete an online application form and you could be asked to complete an online test.
4. If you meet our requirements, you’ll be invited to attend an interview or assessment centre. If successful, we’ll then make you a conditional offer.
5. We’ll then start our security checks. During this stage, you’ll meet your Vetting Officer and we’ll contact your referees. If you are successful in obtaining Developed Vetting, you’ll receive your start date.
6. You are now ready to begin your employment at GCHQ with the New Entrant Orientation programme, a three-day in-person induction at your home site.

As Disability Confident leaders we are committed to providing equitable opportunities throughout the recruitment process, so everyone feels comfortable and supported, and able to do their best. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, have a long-term health condition, or require reasonable adjustments for any other reason*, please let us know if we can make any adjustments. 

There is a wide range of support available: examples of reasonable adjustments we have provided in the past include, but are not limited to, providing extra time, adjusting room set-up, and changing the colour of printed documents. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. We will do our best to accommodate and support you at every stage.

When requesting an adjustment, please let us know the following information to help us assess your request: what it is about the recruitment process you believe disadvantages you and why, as well as what adjustment(s) you require in order to remove the disadvantage. If you are unsure how to answer these questions, please let us know and we will do our best to help you.

You might not know if/when you need adjustments, so we’ll provide prompts at stages throughout the process to ensure you have the help and support you need, when you need it. Simply let us know, and we’ll support you. Should you be offered a role with us, we’ll make sure to confirm with you any requirements you may need in the workplace, so that it becomes an environment where you can excel – and where your only focus will be the mission.

*e.g. private space to pray or to express breast milk, or flexible interview times for those with caring responsibilities.

To reduce financial barriers for candidates, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, we can offer the reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses to attend in-person appointments during the recruitment and vetting process. By covering costs for travel, and in limited cases accommodation, we aim to ensure all applicants feel encouraged to apply, regardless of financial circumstances.

Reimbursement is discretionary and will only be made in line with the Candidate Expenses Policy, as amended from time to time. This policy will be shared with candidates via the invitation to interview or assessment. Candidates are responsible for arranging their own travel, using the most economical options, and must provide original hardcopy receipts for reimbursements.

Our organisation values inclusivity and is recognised as a Disability Confident Leader. Due to our stringent security protocols, there may be restrictions on the use of certain medical devices and assistive technologies within our premises. We endeavour to accommodate all employees, however, there may be instances where specific arrangements cannot be made.

We will discuss any workplace adjustments, including the use of medical devices and assistive technologies, once a conditional offer of employment has been made.

Here at GCHQ, diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word: those with different backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, ways of thinking and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including those from groups that are under-represented in our workforce.

We’re also a Disability Confident employer, which means we aim to ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum criteria for a role will be offered an interview where practicable. You can also request reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process.