FAQs
As you go through the application process, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to ask questions about our business and our roles. We also recommend you try to come along to one of our events where you can meet us in a more informal environment. In the meantime, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
- Where are you recruiting graduates?
- Can I apply to more than one business area?
- Do I need a specific degree discipline in order to apply?
- What if I take a gap year after graduation?
- Do I need to speak French to work at BNP Paribas?
- Can I apply by sending a hard copy of my CV?
- How long does it take to apply?
- What are the different stages of the recruitment process?
- Are travel costs reimbursed for all stages of the interview process?
- What training do you offer?
- Are there opportunities to work abroad?
- Do you offer internships/work placements?
- Can I choose a specific role/product area that I’d like to work in?
- What if I require a work permit?
- If I’ve been given a deadline in which to accept an offer from another company, what should I do?
- If I need to change or cancel any appointments made online, what should I do?
- Can I prepare for the tests?
- What happens after the tests?
- If I have a problem with my on-line application what should I do?
Where are you recruiting graduates?
We’re recruiting graduates to work all over the world and across a number of different business areas and roles. You can find can find out what opportunities we offer in each location by using our interactive ‘Where you could work’ tool.
Can I apply to more than one business area?
Yes, you can highlight on your application form your first and second choice.
Do I need a specific degree discipline in order to apply?
No, we consider graduates from all degree disciplines as long as you can demonstrate excellent academic performance. Numerate and analytical disciplines, such as Engineering, Maths, Finance, Economics, Sciences and Computer Science are all ideal, but graduates from other areas are welcome too. We think other qualities are just as important as academic achievements, for example creativity and logical thinking. We’ll also be looking for the qualities that enable you to work effectively in a team – self-confidence, motivation, strong communication skills and respect for others. Above all, you need to be comfortable with technology, numbers and analytical thinking.
What if I take a gap year after graduation?
We will consider your application if you take a gap year. However, please make sure you check our application closing dates carefully and think about whether you’d be available for any assessments or interviews.
Do I need to speak French to work at BNP Paribas?
Not at all. We are an international bank and therefore the business language is English. However, fluency in any other language is always an advantage.
Can I apply by sending a hard copy of my CV?
If you’re unable to apply online due to a disability, please email bnpgrad08@alexmann.com to arrange an alternative application method. Otherwise, all applications should be made online.
How long does it take to apply?
It will take 60 minutes to complete the online application form.
What are the different stages of the recruitment process?
The stages are likely to be as follows:
- An online application
- Online tests
- Competency interviews (telephone or campus)
- Technical interviews (with the business
Are travel costs reimbursed for all stages of the interview process?
Details regarding travel reimbursements will be included in the details sent to you regarding the second stage of your application.
What training do you offer?
The training we offer varies according to your role and department but you can expect a combination of some formal training and plenty of on-the-job learning. This is designed to ensure you develop rapidly and to enable you to become productive very early on in your career.
Are there opportunities to work abroad?
You’ll be recruited to a specific office. However, because we have offices all over the world, you may well have the opportunity to work abroad at a later stage. In fact, this is something we encourage – we’re looking for internationally minded people.
Do you offer internships/work placements?
Yes. You can find out more about them in our ‘Routes into BNP Paribas’ section.
Can I choose a specific role/product area that I’d like to work in?
We don’t offer a rotational programme – you’ll be recruited into a real job in a specific team from day one. When you apply, you‘ll be asked to indicate your preferred role choice but our application process is also designed to give us an insight into where you’d best fit in. Our senior and experienced business managers will assess your skills and abilities at different stages in the process then, taking your personal preferences into consideration, we’ll decide where exactly you’ll be joining us.
What if I require a work permit?
Although we can’t guarantee a work permit or visa will be issued, for successful candidates we would apply on your behalf.
If I’ve been given a deadline in which to accept an offer from another company, what should I do?
We believe that candidates should have the opportunity to consider all offers. If you have an 'exploding' offer from another company and you are waiting to hear from us, please call and let us know. We will do everything we can to speed up the process to help you make an informed decision.
If I need to change or cancel any appointments made online, what should I do?
If you need to change or cancel your scheduled appointment, please visit the communication centre, which will provide you with instructions on how to do this.
Can I prepare for the tests?
You can prepare for the numerical and verbal reasoning tests by logging on to www.shl.com where you’ll find practice tests. Other than practice, no preparation is necessary – other than a good night's sleep.
What happens after the tests?
If you meet our required standard, you will be invited to attend a first interview. If you’re unsuccessful, we’ll notify you by email shortly afterwards. The different interview stages are outlined above under What are the different stages of the interview process?
If I have a problem with my on-line application what should I do?
If you experience any problems whilst applying on-line please email bnpgrad08@alexmann.com or call us on 0870 351 3556.
