FAQs

What feedback do you provide post interview?

We really value feedback at Johnston Carmichael, we believe it’s at the heart of learning and growing, so we’re delighted to share this.

We offer all unsuccessful candidates that have attended either one of our assessment centres or interviews, personalised feedback. If you would like to receive feedback, email our Student Recruitment team at studentrecruitment@jcca.co.uk and we’ll be back in touch promptly.

Please note that due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback at initial application stage.

I’m thinking of taking a year out after I graduate. Can I defer my entry?

If you know you would like to take a year out, then we recommend applying once you have returned. If you choose to take a gap year after receiving an offer from us, we can discuss this on a case-by-case basis.

How can I make my application stand out from the crowd?

At the application stage we are looking for someone who has done their research on our company, who understands the accountancy profession, answers our questions fully with well-structured, specific answers, and who pays attention to detail. Lastly, we look for those who are genuinely excited about engaging with the business.

Where can I work?

We have opportunities across many of our offices in the UK however our biggest offices are based in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Elgin, Inverness, Glasgow and Newcastle. Please visit our careers page to view all our vacancies.

What qualifications could I gain? 

There are many different qualification pathways on offer at Johnston Carmichael. We take positive steps to ensure that your qualification aligns optimally with your role. Some of the qualifications that our current students are pursuing are listed below. 

Graduate Apprenticeships with Glasgow Caledonian University and Robert Gordon University 

General Accountancy Qualifications such as: 

• ICAS 
• ACCA 
• ICEAW
• AAT 

Tax Qualifications such as: 

• ATT 
• CTA 

Why should I join Johnston Carmichael?

We offer structured training, and our unique training and development programme – Your JC Path – helps everyone achieve their individual goals. Our teams are supportive, and we offer a fun environment to work in along with lots of perks and benefits including a social committee, life assurance policies and study leave when you need to focus on your professional qualifications. We have recently been awarded an ‘A Great Place to Work UK’ accreditation along with being in the top 100 in Development.

Can I apply if I require visa sponsorship?

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application and throughout the programme. Unfortunately, we are unable to consider applications from candidates who do not meet this requirement.

Are there career progression opportunities?

We support our people to ensure they can grow their own way and develop the way they want to when it comes to learning. It’s your JC Path and you choose what route it takes. We understand the importance of personal growth and we've got the tools, training, and people to get you where you want to be in your career.

Can I reapply if I am unsuccessful?

We accept one application per candidate per year for our Early Careers positions. If you have applied to us during this season and been unsuccessful, you can reapply when the next recruitment season begins.

Do I need a finance and accounting background to apply?

We are pleased to welcome applications from all degree disciplines. We are looking for a strong academic record. Applications should demonstrate your interest and commitment to the role.

What degree result do I need to apply for a graduate role?

We're looking for candidates who are on track to achieve, or who have already achieved, a 2:1 degree or above (or equivalent qualification). This is one of the minimum requirements for entry to our graduate programme.

Can I get reasonable adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process?

You will be asked at application stage if you require any reasonable adjustments ahead of attending any interviews or assessment centres. We are happy to accommodate reasonable adjustments and additional support where required for our applicants.

I’m interested in an Early Careers position at JC but can’t see an open vacancy.

You can submit a speculative application here.

Can I use AI in the recruitment process?

We want to hear from you in your own words, so we encourage applicants to answer all questions authentically and truthfully, whether that is written or in an interview.

While AI tools can be helpful for checking spelling, grammar or structure, your application should reflect your own experience and skills. While it is fine to use AI to prepare for your interview, during the interview itself, we are keen to hear from you about your skills and who you are as a person, so we discourage the use of AI generated notes or scripting during interview.

Please note that we may use tools to help identify responses that do not appear to be original or authentic.

Can I apply for multiple roles?

Only one submission is necessary for us to consider your application. We will discuss your preferences with you (if any) ahead of attending any interview or assessment centre.

Want to ask us anything else?

If there is anything we haven’t covered above, or you simply have an enquiry, then please don't hesitate to get in touch.