PSNI Is Recruiting: Student Officer Jobs at £35k, Apply by 30 Nov
The Police Service of Northern Ireland is recruiting student officers on about £35k, plus call handlers and admin staff. Officer applications close 30 November 2026.
UKIn brief
- The PSNI launched a student officer recruitment campaign on 12 October 2026, marking its 25th anniversary.
- New recruits start on a salary of around £35,000, and can study for a criminology and policing degree while working.
- Call handler applications opened on 19 October, and administrative support officer roles open on 9 November 2026.
- Student officer applications close at 3pm on Monday 30 November 2026.
| Country | UK |
|---|---|
| Organization | Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) |
| Last date to apply | 30 Nov 2026 |
| Official source | 4NI – PSNI marks 25 years with new recruitment push for student officers and staff ✓ 4ni.co.uk |
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is recruiting student officers, call handlers and administrative staff in a campaign launched to mark its 25th anniversary. New officers start on around £35,000, and the student officer application window closes at 3pm on Monday 30 November 2026.
The campaign was launched by Chief Constable Jon Boutcher on 12 October 2026 and is being backed by a seven-week advertising push across TV, radio, print and social media.
Roles and key dates
| Role | Status | Key date |
|---|---|---|
| Student officers | Open now | Closes 3pm, 30 November 2026 |
| Transferee Scheme (serving officers from other forces) | Open now | Runs alongside student officer campaign |
| Call handlers | Open | Opened 19 October 2026 |
| Administrative Support Officers | Opening soon | Opens 9 November 2026 |
Pay and training
The PSNI says recruits get a competitive starting salary of about £35k, full training and ongoing development. Student officers can also work towards a degree in criminology and policing from Ulster University while they earn, which means you can gain a qualification without paying fees out of your own pocket.
Who can apply
For student officers, the official PSNI site lists these main rules:
- Age 17 to 57 on 30 November 2026
- 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades A* to C, including English Language
- Eligible to work permanently in the UK
- Meet the physical and medical standards
- No criminal convictions that automatically bar you, and no offensive tattoos
The PSNI and the Northern Ireland Policing Board are encouraging people from all communities and backgrounds to apply. Justice Minister Naomi Long linked the drive to a workforce recovery plan to raise police numbers.
How to apply
Apply online through the official PSNI recruitment site at joinpsni.co.uk. The steps are:
- Check you meet the criteria on the "Can I Join?" page.
- Read the Guidance for Applicants and the Candidate Charter.
- Click "Start Application" and fill in the form.
- Submit before 3pm on 30 November 2026.
Call handler and administrative support officer vacancies are also advertised through the PSNI's official recruitment channels.
What it means for job seekers
- Do not leave it late. Online forms can take time, and the deadline is firm.
- Prepare for fitness tests. Start training now if you are not used to running.
- Check your GCSE certificates. You will need proof of English Language.
- Consider civilian roles. Call handling and admin are good entry points if you are not ready for frontline policing.
More UK public sector and youth opportunities are covered in our piece on UK nationality rules for civil service jobs and the ONS vacancy figures.
Frequently asked questions
When does PSNI recruitment close?
Student officer applications close at 3pm on Monday 30 November 2026.
What is the PSNI starting salary?
The PSNI says new recruits start on a competitive salary of around £35,000.
What are the requirements to join the PSNI?
You must be 17 to 57 on 30 November 2026, have 5 GCSEs at A* to C including English Language, and be eligible to work permanently in the UK.
Is the PSNI hiring civilian staff?
Yes. Call handler roles opened on 19 October and administrative support officer recruitment opens on 9 November 2026.
Apply only on the official site.
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