Application FAQs

If you have a query that cannot be answered through the information on the website, please do drop us a line by completing the form below.

Applying for a job

How do I apply for a job?

We use an online application process for all our vacancies. You can search by clicking here and following the instructions on screen. If you find a vacancy you’re interested in applying for we’ll need you to complete a few steps online in order to submit your application. Please make sure that you follow the instructions on screen.

There isn’t a vacancy that matches my requirements. How do I send my CV speculatively to you to hold on file?

Unfortunately we can’t hold CVs on file or accept speculative applications. However, you can register for email alerts. You’ll then be emailed with any new vacancies matching your requirements as soon as they become available.
 

Will I need to do any tests during the application process?

For roles that require specific technical skills we may ask you to complete a test as part of the recruitment process.

I have a disability that may require special adjustments to be made throughout the recruitment process. What should I do?

Please contact recruitment@unitestudents.com if you feel a disability may impact any stage of the recruitment process and we’ll work with you to make sure that we take the best course of action for you.

I don’t have a CV, can I still apply for a job?

If you don’t have a CV, you’ll have the option to complete an online application form. You can also email recruitment@unitestudents.com for further information.

When will I hear back following my application?

You’ll receive an email confirmation when your application has been submitted successfully. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to respond directly to everyone that has applied, however we will be in touch with you by email or telephone to update you on the status of your application.

Can I apply for more than one vacancy?

Yes, you can.

Can I apply for a job by email or post?

We require all applications to be made online. However, if you’re prevented from submitting an online application for a specific reason, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team to discuss this by emailing recruitment@unitestudents.com.

I have made an error in my application, how can I amend it?

Unfortunately, once you have submitted your application you’re unable to make any changes to the information you have provided. Please email the Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@unitestudents.com if there’s something we need to be made aware of and we’ll try our best to note the change.

Will I need to provide Right to Work documentation?

If you are successful you will need to provide valid proof of your Right to Work in the UK.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens will need to provide a share code, allowing Unite Students to check their employment status via the government online tool.

Unfortunately, we are not currently licensed to sponsor visas.

Further guidance on Right to Work documents can be provided during the recruitment process.

Can I get feedback on my application?

Due to the volume of applications we receive we’re unable to provide feedback at application stage. If you’ve completed a face to face interview we’ll be more than happy to provide detailed feedback over the phone.

Screening & Interviewing

If I’m selected for a telephone or video interview, what should I expect?

If you’re successful in your application, a member of the Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch with you by telephone or email to let you know that you have been shortlisted. Information regarding the next steps of the process will then be emailed to you. If you’re invited to complete a video interview, you’ll receive an email with full instructions and tips. All our video interviews allow you the opportunity to practice.

Our interviews are designed to review your skills, values and experience and provide you with further information about us and the vacancy. 

What do you look for in applicants?

We’re a values-based employer and, while we of course require a certain level of skill and experience for each role, we’re also looking for people who can demonstrate our values:

Creating room for everyone

Keeping uS safe

Doing what's right

Raising the bar together

What interview process do you follow?

The interview process will depend on the role you’re applying for. We use a combination of telephone, video and face to face interviewing, assessment centres, psychometric testing, personality profiling and skills based assessments. Although we operate a standard two stage interview process, at times we will change this to make sure that we’re acting appropriately for each role.

The Talent Acquisition Team will make sure that you’re fully aware of what to expect at each stage of the interview process.

What should I expect during my interview with Unite Students?

You should expect to meet friendly, passionate, open and informative people who are keen to learn more about you and your background. There’ll be lots of questions – technical, situational, competency and value based – as well as the opportunity for you to find out more about the role and Unite Students as a company.

Your interview is likely to last around an hour. If there are to be any assessments during the interview the Talent Acquisition Team will let you know in advance.

Do I need to take anything to the interview?

Please take along your passport as we’ll need to verify your identity and right to work when we meet you. If you don’t have a passport, please bring your full birth certificate and proof of your National Insurance number instead. If you have a permit to work in the UK, please bring this along with you. For some roles we’ll require extra documentation and if this is the case you’ll be notified in advance.

If you’re applying for a role as a qualified Electrician or Plumber, you’ll be required to bring your actual certificates to the interview. We’re unable to offer Electrician or Plumber jobs without these.

Will there be any tests during the interviews?

If there are any tests or assessment exercises during the interview the Talent Acquisition Team will let you know in advance.

Do you offer work experience or work placements?

We don’t have a formal work placement or work experience scheme at the moment, however we do hope to have one soon, so please do come back to the website to check.

Can I claim travel expenses for attending an interview?

We don’t cover candidates’ travel expenses to and from interview unless circumstances are abnormal, for example if we request that you attend an interview in a location other than one local to the role.

Do you have any interview tips?

Interviews can be quite daunting and although interviews should be challenging, we do try to make the whole experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here are a few things to think about in advance.

Read the job description in detail and make note of your strengths, skills and experience with the requirements of the job in mind.


Make sure you’ve researched the company thoroughly in order that you can demonstrate your fit and knowledge.

Consider things that you’re really proud of in your career so far, or those situations that have challenged you and show what you’re capable of at work. These examples will come in handy at the interview.

When you’re asked a question during your interview, take your time to answer and think through what you want to say.

Thoroughly think through your career history and why you have made particular choices as we’re keen to understand what makes you tick.

Consider what it is about Unite Students and the job you’re applying for that appeals to you.

Make sure you’re on time and dressed smartly, allow extra time if you’re not sure where you’re going.

Be yourself – we want to see the real you!

What hours will I work?

Hours of work will vary depending on your role. Specific working hours are detailed on our job adverts.

What happens if I get offered a job?

You will get a call to let you know the good news! Your offer letter and full contract of employment will then be sent to you by email, and you will be required to complete the online signature process. Your offer of employment will be conditional upon us receiving satisfactory references and in some cases a DBS check.

The Hiring Manager will be in touch with you throughout this period to make arrangements for your first day.

Will I need to be DBS checked?

For certain roles, you’ll need to complete a satisfactory DBS check. If the position you’ve applied for requires this, you’ll be informed throughout the process.

Working for Unite Students

Will I need to wear a uniform?

We have a lot of contact with our customers and some roles require you to wear a smart casual uniform, while others may require you to abide by a particular dress code. Where a uniform is required, or if your role requires you to wear protective clothing, we’ll provide this.

What benefits will I get with my salary?

As well as a competitive salary, we offer a variety of benefits. These vary depending upon the role and the level of the position, however you can expect at least:

25 days holiday (increasing to 27 days depending upon length of service)
Contributory pension
Discretionary annual bonus scheme
Life assurance
Sharesave scheme
Eye care/spectacle vouchers
Charity fundraising match
Childcare vouchers
Season ticket loans
Unite Students accommodation discount for children and siblings

What training and development opportunities will I be offered?

As an Investors in People employer, the continual development of our staff is really important to us. We have our Academy whcih supports Learning and Development for all our employees. From your first day you’ll benefit from a training and development framework designed to meet your individual needs. Your development is structured to fit in with the way you work. As well as face to face training, we use a mixture of other methods to suit you including online refresher courses, self-paced elearning and web-based materials.

Are there opportunities for career development?

Absolutely. As an Investors in People accredited company and with a mission to be the place for challenging, rewarding and meaningful careers, it’s really important to us that our staff have the opportunity to progress. Our vacancies are made available internally to allow opportunity for movement and progression. In combination with the performance review process, your manager will work closely with you to enable you to achieve your aspirations.

Contact Us

To help us provide you with the best support, please include details of the role you are enquiring about including the reference number (eg.71684) and the location of the role.

Talent Acquisition Team

Talent Acquisition Team
Unite Students
South Quay House
Temple Back
Bristol
BS1 6FL
recruitment@unitestudents.com