FAQs
Q. What do you mean by 'native capability'?
A. The Chartered Institute of Linguists definition of native capability is ‘a speaker of a particular language who has spoken that language since earliest childhood’. For this campaign we are looking for individuals who learnt any of these languages as their first language, those who may be bilingual in this and English, those who speak it at home with their family, or those who have spent a period of time in the country sufficient to learn it as well as their first language. In particular for Arabic, we are looking for people with an ability to use colloquial Arabic actively and passively, with a very high level of understanding in at least one Arabic dialect. An ability to understand and use one or more other Arabic dialects is desirable here.
Q. Do you need specific Arabic dialects?
A. We are interested in any Arabic dialect, so long as it can be demonstrated at the level of 'native capability'.
Q: Will a formal qualification help or be necessary to apply?
A: For those languages where we do not specify native capability as a necessary requirement, and you do not have this, we require you to have degree level capability, so a formal qualification/degree will be evidence of this. However, if you do not have a formal qualification, but believe you can prove capability at this level, you are welcome to apply and sit the tests.
Q: Where will the posts be based, and will there be any travelling involved?
A: The posts are at our headquarters in Cheltenham, and most of the time you will be working there, although there may be occasional opportunities for travel within the UK and sometimes abroad.
Q: What kind of tests will I have to sit?
A: You will be tested in comprehension of the spoken and written word, and ability to convey this in the original language and/or English. You are allowed to bring a dictionary to the test. On testing day there are usually 3-4 tests of 45-60 minutes duration (per test) with breaks in between.
Q: Where will the tests/interview take place?
A: Both test and interview days will take place in Cheltenham – see the vacancy information for details.
Q: How should I prepare for the tests/interview?
A: There are some samples on the website where you can check on the standard and type of content you are likely to encounter in the tests. Otherwise ensuring you have a good understanding of current affairs in the countries where your languages are spoken will be helpful. You should also be prepared to talk about the skills you have which may be applicable in the workplace (see below).
Q. If I am successful at testing, what is the next step?
A. You will be invited to an assessment day. This will consist of a job interview, a brief security interview, mandatory drug testing and a group exercise where you will be tested on your ability to work in a team, to meet deadlines, apply analytical skills, communicate effectively and provide a service to customers.
Q: How long will it take before I know if I have been successful?
A: The vacancy information will set out the timescales for the application process. If you have been successful in meeting all the criteria, you will enter the Security Vetting process.
Q: What’s the security vetting process all about?
A: To work at GCHQ all individuals must undergo the ‘developed vetting’ process. Click here for further details.
Q: Other than language ability, what skills are required?
A: We look for individuals to be able to demonstrate evidence of their ability in ‘softer skill’ areas, such as teamworking, communications, decision-making, dealing with change, research and analysis. Also important is a good standard of English (both oral and written) and a basic aptitude for IT (regardless of your role you will come into contact with IT at GCHQ).