Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does GE’s Recruiting Process Work?
GE recruits candidates at over 100 U.S. universities every year. Students are encouraged to apply for interviews through their Career Placement office. To see when GE is visiting your campus, go to Student Opportunities and select your school from the dropdown menu.
If you do not find your school listed on this page, you are welcome to apply directly to an entry-level or experienced-level training program through their information page on this site. Please note, many of these programs accept applications during specific times during the year.
Do the Leadership Programs differ between GE businesses?
The philosophy, goals and basic structure of our Programs are the same across all GE businesses worldwide.
How many hours can I expect to work on a Leadership Program?
The average program member works about 50 hours per week. Additional time commitments may be required depending on job assignment. Coursework, on average, will add another 5-8 hours to your week.
Can I do a cross-functional or cross-business rotation?
Rotations outside your function or your GE Business do exist, but are an exception rather than a rule for all Program participants. Assignments of these types are dependent upon the GE Business need, Participant preferences, and are also often based on merit.
Does GE Hire International students?
For US recruiting, GE hires students who have permanent authorization to work in the U.S. It is illegal to discriminate against non-U.S. citizens who are legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Will I relocate while on program? Are moving expenses reimbursed?
Several businesses with assignments in multiple locations require relocation. Students at these Businesses should be prepared to move for at least one assignment; however, a change of location is not guaranteed. Assignment locations are based on Business needs. If a move is required, GE will pay for most basic moving expenses and provide relocation assistance. Rent subsidies and some other expense reimbursements differ by business and are often driven by cost of living differences between locations.
Is there an opportunity for an international assignment during my time on Program?
Certain GE Businesses offer at least one international assignment; however, they represent a very small percentage of the total assignments available. Therefore, a relatively small number of members will have an international assignment while on program. Program members are usually granted international assignments based on merit, but there may be language or other requirements based on the country location, job content, etc. These assignments are extremely competitive.
What type of career path can I expect after completing a GE Leadership Program?
GE’s Leadership Programs prepares graduates for positions with a significant level of responsibility and challenging off-program assignments. Some graduates join the GE Audit Staff. Others enter positions in one of the GE businesses. Cross-functional assignments are also a possibility. The paths vary based on individual preferences and business requirements, but successful Program graduates have accelerated career paths and are ahead of their non-Program peers. Generally, your first off-program assignment will be in the business you completed your Program.
How much is the starting salary for Program Members? What is the raise schedule?
GE sets it’s salaries in the 90th percentile among companies competing for undergraduate business and engineering majors. Program members receive raises every year (increases range from 0-7%) based on an individual performance evaluation and course grades.
What benefits does GE offer?
How will I be evaluated?
Program members are formally evaluated by their assignment managers. Members are evaluated based on completion of job requirements as well as basic skills and competencies (e.g., technical, leadership, work ethic, interpersonal, etc.). Members are also given a significant amount of informal feedback and coaching on a regular basis from their managers and other mentors.
Will GE support me if I want an MBA, or want to pursue a higher educational degree? Do I need them to succeed at GE?
If someone successfully completes one of our leadership programs, other advanced educational degrees or certifications are not required to succeed at GE. Training and experiences gained while on Program may accelerate an individual's career growth in much the same way an advanced degree might at another corporation. Inevitably, some program graduates feel the need to seek further education. In these instances, GE's support, whether it be tuition reimbursement, leave of absence, executive MBA, etc. is considered on a case by case basis and differs by GE business. GE does have a generous tuition reimbursement program.