How to become MP
You can get into this job by being elected by voters in the constituency you wish to represent.
Volunteering
Most people show their commitment through campaigning and volunteering for their party.
You could also:
- serve as a local councillor
- be active in a trade union
- get involved in student politics
- work as a researcher or caseworker for an existing MP
Contact your local councillors or your student office to ask about opportunities to volunteer with them.
Other Routes
To become an MP, you have to be elected in a byelection or general election. You can stand for election as a member of a political party or as an independent candidate.
Each political party has its own selection procedure. Usually, you'll need to get the support of your party's nominating officer before you can become a candidate.
During an election, you'll be expected to campaign in public and online, attend meetings, make speeches and talk to the local media. You'll find it helpful to have some experience in one or more of these areas.
More Information
Career tips
You'll need a good understanding of local and national issues, and keep up to date with current affairs.
The Houses of Parliament offer the following schemes to get involved:
- Parliamentary Academy Scheme
- Speaker's Parliamentary Placement Scheme
- House of Commons Apprenticeship Scheme
- House of Lords Apprenticeship Scheme
- Undergraduate Sandwich Student Placements
Find more information about parliamentary work placements and apprenticeship programmes.
Further information
You can get more advice about becoming an MP from UK Parliament.
You can also find information about working for an MP from Working for an MP (W4MP).