Our data shows that 68% of university applicants were anxious about getting into the ‘right’ kind of university. Many feel they won’t be as attractive to graduate employers if they don’t attend a highly selective institution.
So, why is this a myth?
Reason 1: Many employers do not think the university a graduate has gone to is important in their hiring decisions.
Evidence:
- Employers were asked about the top elements they considered important when hiring graduates: only 8% said that the type of institution a candidate went to was important to them.
(Source: CBI Economics, 2024)
Reason 2: Employers are more interested in your enthusiasm and the soft skills and vocational experience gained during your degree, rather than the university you attend.
- A survey of graduate employers by CBI Economics found that:
68%
said that an applicant’s enthusiasm for the role was important
85%
said that having some vocational elements as part of their degree improves graduate’s performance at interview.
55%
said skills and competencies other than academic knowledge were important.
Additionally, Kingston University’s Future Skills study found that the top skills employers are looking for are:
Transferrable skills
Communication skills
Critical Thinking
Problem solving skills
Digital skills
Analytical Skills
Reason 3: Your future career won’t be solely dependent on choices you make now, universities will help you develop employability
Evidence:
Most students find a job after graduation, regardless of the type of university they studied at and graduated from.
- In 21/22, 88% of graduates across all higher education providers were in some kind of paid work or further study 15 months after graduation. Only 5% were unemployed.
(Source: HESA graduate outcomes from 21/22)
Reason 4: The only ‘right’ choice is the choice that’s right for you