2025/26 applications closed
Civil Service Fast Stream 2026
17 schemes, up to 3 choices, start 7 or 28 September 2026. Starting salary £31,554.
Start salary
£31,554
Take-home / month
£2,170
England, Plan 2 student loan, no pension
After the programme
£45,000–£55,000
Application stages
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Stage 1
Online tests
Work-based scenarios and a case study. This is the volume filter.
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Stage 2
Assessment centre (online)
Written advice exercise, stakeholder communication, and a personal development conversation.
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Stage 3
Final selection board
Profession-set board for most schemes. Government Policy, HR and Digital typically skip this stage.
The 17 schemes
You can apply for up to 3. Confirm current names on the official scheme list.
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Commercial
Buying, contracts and commercial strategy across government.
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Cyber Security
Protecting public services and national infrastructure.
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Digital
Product, delivery, data and (from 2026) software / data science strands.
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Diplomatic and Development
FCDO-aligned international and development work.
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Diplomatic and Development Economics
Economics in diplomacy and development (stricter degree rules).
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Finance
Government Finance Function plus a professional accountancy qualification.
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Government Economics Service
Economic analysis for policy — usually a 2:1 in economics.
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Government Operational Research Service
Modelling and analysis for operational decisions.
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Government Policy
Policy design and advice across departments (closest to the old generalist route).
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Government Social Research
Evidence and research methods for policy.
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Government Statistical Service
Official statistics — usually a numerate 2:1.
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Human Resources
People, employee relations and organisational design.
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Operational Delivery
Front-line public services and operations leadership.
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Project Delivery
Major projects, APM-aligned professional development.
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Property
Government estate, workplaces and property profession.
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Risk Management
Enterprise and operational risk in departments.
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Science and Engineering
STEM advice in government — usually a relevant 2:1.
Official Fast Stream → How to apply → Take-home calculator → UK graduate jobs →
FAQs
- What is the Fast Stream starting salary in 2026?
- First-year fast streamers earn £31,554. Completing the programme typically leads to £45,000–£55,000.
- When do Fast Stream applications open?
- The 2025/26 window ran 9 October 2025 (midday) to 6 November 2025 (midday) and is now closed. Successful applicants start 7 or 28 September 2026. The next application window is typically in October for the following September intake. Register interest on the official site.
- Do I need a 2:1?
- Most schemes accept a 2:2. Analytical schemes (economics, statistics, science & engineering) often require a 2:1 in a relevant subject. Existing civil servants can often apply without a degree.