Why Many Graduates Struggle to Get Hired Despite Holding Degrees, Survey Highlights Skills Gap

New Delhi, July 23, 2026:

Graduate employability skills are becoming a decisive factor in today’s job market, with a recent Cambridge survey revealing that academic degrees alone are no longer enough to secure employment. The findings show students believe communication, teamwork and workplace skills are essential for getting hired and building successful careers.

The study, conducted by Cambridge and based on responses from nearly 1,900 students, found that an overwhelming majority believe communication, teamwork, problem-solving and other interpersonal abilities play a decisive role in both getting hired and advancing in their careers.

Students indicated that employers increasingly expect candidates to demonstrate practical workplace competencies alongside technical knowledge. Many respondents felt that confidence during interviews, effective communication and the ability to collaborate with colleagues are becoming essential requirements across industries.

The survey also highlighted growing awareness among students that success in the modern workplace depends on a combination of academic learning and professional skills. Participants said that while degrees remain valuable, employers are placing greater emphasis on adaptability, critical thinking, leadership and emotional intelligence.

Education experts believe the findings reinforce the need for institutions to integrate career-focused training, presentation skills, teamwork exercises and industry exposure into academic programmes. Such initiatives can help graduates transition more smoothly from classrooms to professional environments.

The report concludes that strengthening soft skills alongside formal education could significantly improve employability, enabling graduates to compete more effectively in an increasingly skills-driven job market.