Key facts

Current Status: The Access Bank 2025 Entry Level Training Program (ELTP) is ACTIVE and accepting applications.
Portal: https://apply.workable.com/access-bank/j/2DBE648318/
Application Deadline: November 28, 2025.

Are you a recent graduate looking to launch your banking career with one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions? Access Bank’s 2025 Entry Level Training Program (ELTP) presents an exceptional opportunity to receive world-class training whilst building a solid foundation for a rewarding career in banking. The programme is currently accepting applications through the official portal at https://apply.workable.com/access-bank/j/2DBE648318/, with applications expected to close by late November 2025.

Program Tracks

Access Bank offers three specialised tracks, each targeting different career paths and requiring specific qualifications:

ELTP Graduate Track

Target Audience: High-potential graduates aspiring to banking leadership positions

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum Degree: Second-Class Upper Division (2:1) – this is the most stringent requirement
• Disciplines: Any discipline from accredited universities
• Age Limit: Maximum 26 years (28 years for MSc, LLB, or ICAN holders)
• NYSC Status: Must have completed NYSC (mandatory, non-negotiable)
• Nationality: Must reside in or be eligible to work in Nigeria
• Technology: Personal laptop and stable internet connection required

Placement Divisions: Enterprise Resource Group (ERG), Corporate and Investment Banking Division (CIBD), Commercial Banking Division (CBD)

ELTP Retail Track

Target Audience: Graduates passionate about customer service, relationship management, and branch operations

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum Degree: Second-Class Lower Division (2:2)
• Disciplines: Any discipline from accredited universities
• Age Limit: Maximum 26 years (28 years for MSc/LLB holders)
• NYSC Status: Must have completed NYSC
• Additional Focus: Emphasis on customer service orientation and relationship management skills

Placement Divisions: Retail Sales, Products, and Retail Operations

ELTP Tech Track

Target Audience: Tech-savvy graduates passionate about digital transformation and innovation

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum Degree: Second-Class Lower Division (2:2)
• Disciplines: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and Economics ONLY – This is the critical differentiator from other tracks
• Age Limit: Maximum 26 years (28 years for MSc/LLB holders)
• NYSC Status: Must have completed NYSC
• Technical Skills: Expected proficiency or interest in programming, data science, digital marketing, business analytics, networking, or cybersecurity

Placement Division: Technology Division focusing on digital transformation

Universal Requirements Across All Tracks

• Completed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) – no exemptions or “in-view” status accepted
• Must apply to ONLY ONE track – multiple applications result in automatic disqualification
• Access to a personal laptop and a reliable internet connection
• Nigerian citizenship or eligibility to work in Nigeria
• Graduation from accredited/reputable universities
• No prior work experience required – this is genuinely an entry-level program.
• No application fees – Access Bank does not charge fees or use agents

Application Process

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Visit Official Portal: Navigate to https://apply.workable.com/access-bank/j/2DBE648318/ or https://careers.accessbankplc.com/careers/entry-level
2. Select ONE Track Only: Choose between ELTP Graduate, ELTP Retail, or ELTP Tech based on your qualifications
3. Complete Online Form: Fill in all required information accurately with no false data
4. Upload Documents: Submit updated CV/Resume and supporting documents
5. Submit Before Deadline: Ensure submission before November 28, 2025 (or earlier if verified deadline changes)
6. Await Confirmation: Receive email confirmation of application receipt

Required Documents

Initial Application Stage:

• Updated CV/Resume (highlighting relevant experience and skills)
• Cover letter (recommended but not always mandatory)

Documentation Stage (Post-Assessment):

• Bachelor’s degree certificate and academic transcripts (all years)
• NYSC Discharge Certificate (physical certificate required, not just discharge letter)
• WAEC/NECO O-Level results (for date of birth verification)
• Professional qualifications, if applicable (MSc, LLB, ICAN)
• Valid government-issued ID (National ID, International Passport, Voter’s Card)
• Birth certificate
• Recent passport photographs
• Proof of address
• Referee contact information

Name consistency across ALL documents is crucial. Any discrepancies (extra names, abbreviated middle names, spelling variations) must be addressed with affidavits to prevent disqualification at the documentation stage.

Complete Selection Process and Timeline

The Access Bank ELTP selection process is rigorous and comprehensive, spanning approximately 3-4 months from application to job offer. Only successful candidates are contacted at each stage – unsuccessful applicants receive no rejection notifications.

Stage 1: Application Review (Weeks 1-2)

• Timeline: 1-2 weeks after application deadline
• Process: HR reviews applications against eligibility criteria
• Outcome: Shortlisted candidates receive an email invitation for the online assessment
• Success Factor: Ensure all eligibility requirements are met and the application is complete

Stage 2: Online Assessment (Weeks 3-4)

• Platform: TestAssessify (as of 2025, previously Dragnet Solutions)
• Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
• Format: Remote/online (can be taken from home)
• Components:
  • Quantitative/Numerical Reasoning (sales figures, percentages, ratios)
  • Verbal Reasoning/Comprehension
  • General Knowledge
  • Logical/Abstract Reasoning
• Total Questions: Approximately 50 problem-solving questions (roughly 1 minute per question)
• Attempts: Candidates are eligible to take two assessments

Critical Technical Requirements:

• Must use a computer/laptop (NOT phone – incoming calls/SMS will terminate the test)
• Stable internet connection (test termination due to connectivity issues results in no retakes)
• Physical calculator recommended (opening calculator app flags suspicious behaviour)
• Avoid suspicious activities: minimising browser, opening new tabs, using Ctrl+C/V, F12, or Print Screen (5 warnings = automatic termination)

Stage 3: Physical Verification/Assessment Centre (Weeks 6-8)

• Timeline: 2-4 weeks after online test
• Location: Designated Access Bank test centres (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano)
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Format: In-person at bank branches/offices

Four Test Sections:

1. Aptitude Test: Numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, problem-solving
2. Integrity Test: Scenario-based questions, ethical decision-making, bank values alignment (highly weighted by Access Bank)
3. Personality Test/Competency Questionnaire: Emotional Intelligence assessment, behavioural traits evaluation, work style preferences
4. Skills Test (ELTP Tech only): Basic coding interviews, technical problem-solving, programming fundamentals

Stage 4: Documentation (Weeks 9-10)

• Timeline: 2-3 weeks after physical assessment
• Process: Submit all required documents for verification
• Format: Online submission or in-person at designated centres
• Common Disqualification Issues: Name discrepancies without affidavits, missing NYSC certificates, and unverified certificates

Stage 5: Panel Interview (Weeks 11-13)

• Timeline: 2-4 weeks after documentation
• Format: Panel interview (typically 2-4 interviewers) via Microsoft Teams or in-person
• Duration: 15-30 minutes per candidate
• Panel Composition: Head of HR and department heads

Common Interview Questions:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “Why Access Bank specifically?”
• “Why banking/this track?”
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
• “Describe a challenging situation and how you resolved it.”
• “How do you handle difficult customers?”
• “What do you know about Access Bank’s recent achievements?”
• “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
• “How do you stay updated with banking industry trends?”
• Behavioural questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Integrity scenarios (ethics-based questions)

Technical Note: Candidates report waiting over two hours in virtual waiting rooms due to rotational scheduling, which requires patience and professionalism.

Stage 6: Top Management Interview (Weeks 14-15)

• Timeline: Approximately 1 month after panel interview
• Format: One-on-one or small panel with senior management/MD
• Duration: 10-20 minutes
• Focus: High-level strategic thinking, leadership potential, culture fit, business acumen
• Key Questions: Similar to a panel interview, but more focused on “Why Access Bank?” and future vision

Stage 7: Medical Screening (Week 16)

• Timeline: After a successful top management interview
• Process: Comprehensive medical examination at designated facilities
• Purpose: Fitness-for-work verification

Stage 8: Job Offer and Onboarding (Weeks 17-18)

• Timeline: 1-2 weeks after medical clearance
• Process: Job offer letter, contract signing
• Start Date: Enrollment in the School of Banking Excellence (SBE) for intensive training

Program Structure and Training

Training Duration and Phases

Total Program Duration: 6 months of comprehensive training

1. Classroom Training: 3 months of intensive theoretical learning at the School of Banking Excellence (SBE)
   • Location: 90 & 92 Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
   • Covers 37 subject modules, including: Banking and Finance, Accountancy, Management and Leadership, Project Management, Ethics and Professional Standards, Personal Effectiveness, Marketing, Customer Relationship Management
   • Learning methods: Classroom instruction, personal development classes, self-study programs, e-learning programs, practical assessments, group learning
2. Branch Attachment: 2 weeks
   • Hands-on experience at various Access Bank branches
   • First-hand customer service training with experienced staff
   • Practical application of classroom learning
3. On-the-Job Training: 3 months
   • Full integration into assigned divisions
   • Real-time application of skills learned
   • Mentorship from department teams

School of Banking Excellence (SBE)

Accreditation: Internationally accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) since July 19, 2018. The SBE is recognised as Nigeria’s best banking training school and attracts candidates from across Africa.

Training Standards is a rigorous curriculum with demanding assessments, case studies, immersive learning, and practical assignments. The program maintains high academic standards, with students at risk of withdrawal for course failures.

Compensation and Benefits

During Training Period (4-6 months)

Training Stipend: ₦43,000 – ₦48,750 per month

• Total training stipend: approximately ₦172,000 – ₦195,000 for the 4-month primary training phase
• This covers basic expenses during the intensive training period in Lagos

After Program Completion (Entry-Level Staff)

Monthly Base Salary: ₦237,000

• Annual Salary: ₦2,844,000 (approximately $2,844-3,600 USD depending on exchange rates)
• Important Note: This is BASE salary, excluding bonuses and other performance-based compensation
• Access Bank is reported as the highest-paying bank in Nigeria for entry-level positions.

Career Progression and Post-ELTP Roles

Structured Career Path

Upon joining, each employee collaborates with their supervisor to create a development plan detailing 5-year career objectives and key learning areas. This plan is reviewed annually to track progress.

Progression Timeline:

• Entry Level Staff (Post-ELTP) → Banking Officers → Senior Banking Officers (Managers) → Management Positions

Salary Progression:

• Entry Level: ₦237,000/month
• Senior Banking Officers (Level 1): ₦700,000+/month
• Managers and above: ₦800,000+/month (plus bonuses and profit sharing)

Post-ELTP Placement Roles

Graduates transition into “generalist roles” within the bank and are deployed across various divisions:

Corporate & Investment Banking Division (CIBD):

• Relationship Officer
• Corporate Banking positions
• Investment banking roles

Commercial Banking Division (CBD):

• Commercial banking officers
• Business relationship management

Retail Banking:

• Retail banking officers
• Customer service positions
• Branch operations
• Products and sales roles

Technology Division:

• IT specialists
• Digital banking roles
• Technology project management

Other Divisions:

• Enterprise Resource Group (ERG) – support and operational roles
• Transaction Services – operations and payment processing
• Financial Markets – treasury and markets positions

Real Example: Oluwatumininu Adetoro (2023 cohort), who transitioned from media with no finance experience, graduated with 83.02% and was placed as “Relationship Officer, Corporate & Investment Banking Division.”

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

1. Multiple Applications: Applying to more than one track (ELTP Grad + Tech + Retail) results in immediate disqualification. The system flags duplicate applications as invalid.
2. False Information: Inflating academic qualifications, misrepresenting NYSC status, or providing incorrect age/graduation dates leads to disqualification at verification.
3. Age Limit Violations: Being over 26 years for BSc holders or over 28 years for MSc/LLB holders.
4. Wrong Track Selection: ELTP Tech applicants without a STEM/Economics background, or applying for the Graduate track with a 2:2 degree.
5. Incomplete NYSC: Not completing NYSC before application or applying while still serving. Some candidates report being turned away at physical assessment if the NYSC certificate is unavailable.
6. Document Inconsistencies: Name variations across certificates, missing middle names on birth certificates, or unauthenticated documents cause issues at the documentation stage.

Technical Mistakes During Assessments

7. Using Phone for Online Test: Incoming calls/SMS terminate the test with no retake allowed. Must use laptop/desktop only.
8. Poor Internet Connection: Test terminated due to connection issues with no retakes. Recommendation: Use a reliable internet with a backup connection.
9. Suspicious Activities During Test: Minimising browser, opening new tabs, using Ctrl+C/V, F12, or Print Screen. Five warnings for suspicious behaviour = automatic termination.
10. Payment to Agents/Fraudsters: Access Bank does not use agents or charge fees. Any payment requests are scams.

11. Late Application: Missing the deadline due to a last-minute rush. Recommendation: Apply early.
12. Incorrect Location Selection: Choosing a location you cannot attend. Recruitment is location-specific; select a realistic preferred location.
13. Duplicate Applications: Submitting an application multiple times or leaving required fields blank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the age limit for ELTP?

26 years maximum for Bachelor’s degree holders; 28 years maximum for MSc/LLB/ICAN holders at the date of application. This is strictly enforced.

2. Can I apply to multiple ELTP tracks?

No. Applicants must select ONE track only. Multiple applications result in automatic disqualification. The system flags duplicate applications.

3. What degree classification is required?

• ELTP Grad: Minimum 2:1 (Second Class Upper)
• ELTP Retail: Minimum 2:2 (Second Class Lower)
• ELTP Tech: Minimum 2:2 (Second Class Lower) in STEM/Economics only

4. How long is the training program?

6 months total: 3 months classroom training at School of Banking Excellence + 2 weeks branch attachment + 3 months on-the-job training.

5. Does Access Bank charge application fees?

No. Application is entirely FREE. Access Bank does not use agents. Any payment requests are scams.

6. What is the selection process?

Eight stages: Application review → Online assessment → Physical assessment → Documentation → Panel interview → Top management interview → Medical screening → Job offer. The complete process takes approximately 3-4 months.

7. When will I hear back after applying?

Only successful candidates at each stage are contacted. Timeline varies, but typically 2-6 weeks between stages. Many applicants report “radio silence” periods, which is normal.

8. Must I have completed NYSC?

Yes. Completed NYSC is mandatory for all tracks with no exceptions. “In-view” status or exemption letters are not sufficient. A physical NYSC discharge certificate is required at the documentation stage.

9. Is the program location-specific?

Yes. Recruitment is location-specific. Applicants must carefully choose their preferred work location during the application, as this determines deployment after training.

10. What happens after graduation from ELTP?

Successful graduates transition to Executive Trainee roles within Access Bank, where they are deployed to various divisions based on their track record and performance during training.

Final Notes

Access Bank explicitly states: “Access Bank does not demand payment from applicants. Application is free. Access Bank does not assign agents to assist applicants.” Any requests for payment or claims from “agents” are scams. Report such incidents to the bank immediately.

“Radio silence” is usual throughout the process. Only successful candidates are contacted at each stage. Many applicants wait weeks without hearing back, which typically indicates that their application has not progressed. Do not interpret lack of communication as a system error – it is the bank’s standard practice.

The training program is highly rigorous with “sleepless nights,” intense academic pressure, and demanding assessments. Former participants describe it as “the hardest journey” they’ve embarked on. Applicants should be prepared for high-stress environments and significant time commitments beyond regular working hours.

Have a question? Please leave them in the comments.

Double-check with official platforms, as this article is for informational purposes only.