I graduate in 2026 so does this mean I’m not eligible to apply for the tax specialist program?

Hello

The Tax Specialist Programme (TSP) is the route to become a highly trained tax professional, tackling the most challenging and complex aspects of tax work in HMRC.  

The programme is an intensive 3 to 4 year course designed to give you a broad foundation of technical knowledge and skills across different areas of tax, which you will put into practice with your own portfolio of compliance casework.

Applications to join TSP are advertised via Civil Service Jobs, usually every autumn. Entry level is at Grade HO, progressing to Grade 7 at the end of successful completion. The 2026 recruitment will open this September- go and check this page https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/hmrc-tax-specialist-programme/

Yes, you apply for the HMRC Tax Specialist Programme if you are expected to graduate with a minimum 2:2 degree from any subject by the September of the year the scheme starts.