Over a third of students receive no response to most job applications – Yugo

A report from Yugo found that more than a third of students never hear back from most job applications, highlighting the scale of ‘graduate ghosting’ in the jobs market. 

The survey showed 37% of students said not hearing back from employers was a top concern. 

35% had no response from more than half of their unsuccessful applications, and one in 12 had been ‘ghosted’ by up to 80% of employers.

The report also found 73% of students expect to leave university with debt, and 20% expect to owe £100,000 or more. 

Most students expect to earn between £20,000 and £40,000 after graduation. 

Despite these ambitions, 80% of students worry about their future career, with 27% of female students saying they worry constantly compared to 15% of male students.

95% of students said they do not have work experience, even though it is seen as key to getting a graduate job. 

While 74% of students globally said university is worth the cost, 58% said personal growth and life experience are as important as employment. 

80% said they are considering postgraduate study, mainly to strengthen their CV and gain extra qualifications.

Joe Persechino, chief operating officer at Yugo, said: “Students are the future of our global workforce – so listening to their thoughts, opinions, and anxieties is vital. 

“Our latest Yugo Global Student Insights survey data emphasises the need for enhanced career preparation programmes during university to increase students’ confidence and resilience in the face of rejection. 

“Our findings also highlight the value of the wider student ecosystem in addressing this issue. It’s not just universities that have a part to play.”

Persechino added: “Any business or organisation involved in shaping and bettering student lives and experiences can and should step up to fulfil the responsibilities of career readiness, ensuring every student has an equal chance at success. 

“While we can’t alter market-wide employer hiring practices, we can prepare students for the challenges they present. 

“Together, with the right support, we can improve graduate prospects and equip the students of today with the skills and confidence to be the successful professionals of tomorrow.”