One in three students changing career plans as graduate roles dry up
UNiDAYS has released new data showing how a tightening graduate jobs market is reshaping students’ career plans, with almost a third of UK students (30%) saying current conditions have forced them to rethink their ambitions.
The findings, based on a survey of more than 2,000 students, come as graduate vacancies fall to their lowest level in a decade. Concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on traditional entry‑level roles are adding further uncertainty for those preparing to enter the workforce.
More than half of students surveyed (55%) said they feel negative about the job market. High competition from other graduates (48%), a lack of entry‑level roles (43%) and limited work experience (42%) were cited as the biggest barriers to securing employment.
Ahead of graduation this summer, only 19% of students reported having a full‑time job lined up. Almost a third (31%) were still actively searching, while 14% had not yet begun looking. A further 13% planned to take part‑time work, and just 2% had secured a place on a graduate scheme.
The challenging environment is prompting many to reconsider traditional career paths. Nearly half (48%) are now exploring different industries, and 30% say the job market has already changed their plans. The data also suggests entrepreneurship is gaining traction as an alternative route, with almost a quarter (23%) considering starting a business or becoming self‑employed. Flexibility (56%), greater control over their careers (55%) and earning potential (44%) were the main motivations.
Alex Gallagher, Chief Strategy Officer at UNiDAYS, said the findings highlight both the pressures facing students and their determination to adapt.
“This data paints a clear picture of the challenges facing students today as they prepare to enter the workforce, and how these are reshaping their plans for the future,” he said. “What’s striking is that students aren’t letting a difficult job market dampen their ambition. Many are taking greater ownership of their futures — whether that means looking beyond their original industry or backing themselves to build something of their own.”
UNiDAYS has been increasing its support for student entrepreneurs. Earlier this year, the company announced the winners of its inaugural Student Startup Accelerator, a nationwide programme designed to identify and accelerate emerging founders. Applications for the second cohort are now open.
