Guidance: Government Social Research Service Fast Stream Scheme

The scheme is an accelerated development programme that seeks that develop our future professional leaders in the Government Social Research Service.

The Government Social Research Service 2026 Fast Stream Scheme is now closed.

GSR members come from a range of social science related backgrounds. A qualifying degree is one which contains substantial social research methods training (comprising around one third of modules taken in the course) including quantitative research methods and at least three of the following: systematic/literature reviews; qualitative methods; interpretation of data and presentation of results; study design and hypothesis testing; and application of ethics to research.

You are eligible to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream if:

You need, or should expect, to achieve a minimum of 2:1 in your undergraduate degree; or a 2:2 with a postgraduate degree.

The qualifying degree must contain a minimum of 30% in social research methods covering all the criteria outlined below (it is not sufficient to hold the majority in one area – coverage across all areas is required)

If you satisfy both the Nationality and Right to work/Immigration requirements.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to demonstrate these criteria clearly on application.

Social Research Method Degree Content Criteria:

To qualify a degree must include quantitative research methods including research design, data collection (i.e. questionnaire design, sampling, weighting) and data analysis (e.g. statistical analysis).

It must also include at least three of the following: