Government Operational Research Service - Fast Stream
Source: gov.uk (2025-01-22)

Details of eligibility requirements and the application process for our analytical leadership development programme.

The Civil Service Fast Stream is a leadership development programme for those who have the potential to become the future leaders of the Civil Service. The GORS Fast Stream is a 3.5 year programme which includes opportunities to work in three different government departments and a tailored learning and development package.

GORS Fast Stream analysts are expected to progress more quickly to managerial positions, and to have a greater development focus on leadership capabilities.

How to apply

Applications to the Fast Stream run annually, and usually open in the autumn. You can apply through the the Fast Stream website (https://www.faststream.gov.uk/government-operational-research-service/index.html).

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream if:
- you have, or expect to have, a 2:1 or higher degree or degree apprenticeship in a highly numerate degree subject; or
- you have, or expect to have, a 2:2 or higher degree and a highly numerate postgraduate degree
- you satisfy both the nationality and immigration requirements
Application process

There are several stages of the application process which are the same for all Fast Stream schemes, including the Fast Stream Assessment Centre (FSAC). To find out more, please go to the Fast Stream Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page (https://www.faststream.gov.uk/faqs/index.html).

Operational Research Assessment Centre

If you are successful at the initial application stages, you will be invited to attend an Operational Research Assessment Centre (ORAC), which is a virtual assessment consisting of two written analytical tests, a technical presentation and an interview. This process explores how well you are likely to perform as an Operational Research Analyst in Government. The exercises test three broad competences:
- Analytical problem solving
- Technical knowledge
- Consultancy and associated personal skills
You will receive more detailed guidance on the format of the assessment centre in advance of the day.

Process for successful applicants

If you are successful, you will be offered a role, subject to security clearance and right to work checks.

You will be able to express a preference for location. GORS has roles all over the UK, and many Civil Servants, including in senior positions, work outside the South East. Currently, about 45% of GORS members are based outside of Greater London.

On appointment, you will join the Government Operational Research Service (GORS) alongside over 1,200 members. Like all Fast Stream schemes, the GORS scheme is centrally managed by the Cabinet Office (CO). Successful candidates will join the GORS profession, but will be employed by the Cabinet Office and governed by their terms and conditions and salary.

Promotion and successful completion of the scheme will see you earn around £45k to £55k.

Nationality and immigration requirements

You are eligible to apply if you are in one of the following groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) (https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
You will need to demonstrate that you meet the relevant immigration requirements and their eligibility under the Civil Service Nationality Rules (CSNRs). Nationality requirements are explained in more detail on the Civil Service nationality rules webpage (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nationality-rules), and immigration rules on the GOV.UK Visas and Immigration page (https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration).

Security Vetting

Please note that all government roles require security vetting (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels), and the higher levels require candidates to have had a UK footprint for 3 years, which may affect the role you are assigned.