Early engagement programs
Each year bp opens its doors to a new generation of high achievers
Early engagement programs
bp offers three programs designed specifically for university students – bp scholars program, bp STEP and the trading and shipping sophomore experience. Participants will get the opportunity to hear from the brightest minds in bp and learn from their experience as leaders in a global company, participate in case competitions, and gain insight into internships and careers in the energy industry.
Explore our early engagement programs to see which one is right for you.
The application process for this year’s early engagement programs will begin in February 2021. If you are interested in participating, please check back at that time. To learn more about all of our early careers opportunities, we encourage you to join our Talent Community.
All hotel accommodations and travel expenses within the United States will be provided by bp.
bp scholars program
bp knows you’re the future of the energy industry, and we believe in the investment of your education. That’s why we’re looking for high-achieving students to join our scholarship program. Current college freshman, sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply for a chance to be selected for a $5,000 scholarship toward your tuition!
Through bp scholars, you’ll experience the following:
- Awarded $5,000 scholarship to support the education and development of students.
- Attend the scholar’s induction to connect with industry leaders and ambassadors.
- Visit one of our offices to experience bp’s culture and gain a perspective of the industry.
Program eligibility
- Be currently enrolled as a full-time student pursuing an undergraduate degree majoring in science, technology, engineering, math or business areas of study at one of bp’s partnered universities.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Must have the legal right to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
Program dates
- bp scholar’s induction and office visit: July 30 - July 31.
bp STEP (shaping talent, energy and potential) leadership program
Are you looking to develop your networking and leadership skills outside of the classroom? bp STEP is our four-day leadership development program designed to give you the skills you need for a successful career.
Through bp STEP, you’ll experience the following:
- Gain leadership skills through a series of workshops and networking with industry leaders.
- Deep dive into bp’s end-to-end operations within our bp entities businesses, with a focus on engineering, technology and commercial retail.
- Apply your skills and knowledge to real business issues through a team case competition.
Program eligibility
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA 3.2 or higher.
- Have a graduation date between December 2022 and May 2024.
- Must have the legal right to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
Program dates
- Houston: Summer 2021
- Chicago: Summer 2021
Students may only select one program date and apply to either Sophomore Experience or bp STEP program.
Trading & shipping sophomore experience
Do you have a strong interest in the financial markets and trading? Sophomore experience is a unique opportunity that offers a deep-dive into the world of commodity trading and risk management in the energy industry within bp’s trading & shipping business in Houston or Chicago.
Through sophomore experience, you’ll experience the following:
- Exposure to bp’s energy marketing, origination, analytics, finance and trading culture.
- Gained experience through trading simulations, case studies, and presentations.
- Growing your network within bp
- Learn about the bp’s summer internship and graduate development programs.
- Participate in a community service activity to serve those in the Chicago or Houston area.
Program eligibility
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA 3.2 or higher
- Have a graduation date of December 2022 or May 2023
- Must have the legal right to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
Program Dates
- Houston: Dates TBA
- Chicago: Dates TBA
Students may only select one program date and apply to either sophomore experience or bp STEP program.
