You can stand in your final year, so taking a year out during your degree is not the only route into the role.

If you are earlier in your course, you can explore taking a break from your studies and returning after your year in office.

The role runs from 1st June 2027 to 31st May 2028. Check how these dates fit with your course, assessments and any placements before making plans.

If you would need a break from your studies, speak to your programme lead about the arrangements for your course. Contact the elections team if you are unsure where to start.

Ask us about your circumstances →

It helps to separate standing in the election from doing the job if elected.

During the election, you will need to consider how preparing your nomination and campaigning fit around your studies and other commitments.

If elected, you will take up a paid, full-time job working 35 hours per week. Students who have not finished their course would need to arrange a break from their studies.

The role offers flexible working, but it still involves a full-time commitment. Speak to us about working arrangements and your circumstances before deciding whether it is right for you.

Explore the role and working arrangements →

Putting yourself forward can feel like a big step, particularly if you have never stood in an election before.

Campaigning means explaining what you would like to improve for students and why they should vote for you. It gives students the chance to hear your ideas and ask questions.

You can explore the campaigning guidance and support before deciding to stand. The elections team can explain the process, the rules and what will be expected of candidates.

You do not need to have a finished campaign plan to ask for advice.

Explore campaigning and support →

Full Time Officers represent GCU students and work to improve student life.

The job includes listening to students, taking their views into meetings with the University, leading campaigns and working with staff and other officers on projects.

Officers also help lead the Students’ Association as charity trustees, with training and support for these responsibilities.

Our role page explains the work, shows what a working day could involve and includes a day-in-the-life video.

See what the job involves →

If you are approaching graduation, the role could be a paid next step after your studies.

It offers a year of experience in communication, teamwork, leadership and managing projects, alongside training and mentoring.

You would have practical examples to draw on in future applications, from representing students to planning campaigns and working with different teams.

If your course finishes before the role starts, contact us to check your eligibility and how the dates fit your circumstances.

Explore the experience you could gain →

Alongside the opportunity to improve student life, the role offers:

• A salary of over £25,500 per year, with the final salary to be confirmed.
• 46 days’ annual leave.
• A 35-hour working week with flexible working.
• Training, mentoring and staff support.
• Practical experience in leadership, communication and project management.

You can also explore previous campaign wins to see the difference officers have helped make for GCU students.

Explore campaign wins →