We have published data on four main areas from recent years of recruitment, this includes:

  • Competition ratios - application numbers divided by the total number of posts - see the 'Round 1' tab on this page. Additionally, information about the relative competitiveness of each region, based on the ranking of candidates accepting offers, can be found in the document library.

  • Short-list scores - average scores, the distribution nationally and, where applicable, information about the minimum score needed to qualify for interview - refer to the document library

  • Total scores - the national average total score awarded after the full recruitment process (application and interview), including a graph showing the distribution of scores nationally - refer to the document library.

  • Fill rates - the number of vacancies available and number filled by region -  refer to the document library

Application and post numbers, and competition ratios

The table below shows the number of posts, applications and resulting competition ratios from recent years. Please be aware that the figures in this table were taken at the end of the recruitment year.

 Vacancy / application numbers, round 1 2015-2024
YearVacanciesApplicationsCompetition ratio
2024 1698 6273 3.69
2023 1572 4406 2.80
2022 1640 4008 2.44
2021 1567 3590 2.29
2020 1610 2798 1.74
2019 1563 2225 1.42
2018 1638 2455 1.50
2017 1678 2337 1.39
2016 1640 2516 1.53
2015 1550 2631 1.70

Application numbers & competition ratio

As round 2 is held on a national basis, with candidates in competition for all regions throughout the process, the competition ratios below are based on national figures rather than by indiviual regions. Fill rate information, available in the document library, is an indicator of the popularity of each region.

Vacancy / application numbers, round 2 2015 - 2021
YearVacanciesApplicationsCompetition ratio
2021 No R2 recruitment in 2021 N/A N/A
2020 129 729 5.65
2019 385 844 2.19
2018 405 720 1.78
2017 462 732 1.58 
2016 376 596 1.59 
2015 268 600 2.34