Guides · Updated 23 October 2026

How to answer salary expectations on an application

Answer the salary expectations question on UK job applications with a researched, realistic range.

Many UK forms ask “What are your salary expectations?” and some make the box required. A researched answer protects you from underselling yourself without pricing you out.

1. Start from the advert

If the advert gives a salary or a band — common in the NHS (Agenda for Change bands), the Civil Service and the public sector — your answer is usually simply that figure or band. For example: “In line with the advertised salary of £32,000.”

2. Research the market

For adverts without a salary, look at similar roles in the same city and industry on job boards and in salary surveys. London roles typically pay more than the same role elsewhere in the UK.

3. Give a range, not a single number

A short range — for example “£35,000–£38,000 depending on the full package” — leaves room to negotiate and shows you understand that benefits matter too.

4. If the box only accepts a number

Enter the figure you would genuinely accept, usually towards the middle of your range, and raise the full package at offer stage.

Avoid

• Writing “negotiable” in a required number box — it may be rejected or look evasive.
• Quoting your current salary when the question asks for expectations.
• Changing your answer from one application to the next for the same kind of role.