Graduating with a 2:2 or 3rd

So you’ve graduated, or are on track to graduate, with a 2:2 or Third, you’re not alone. Figures published from HESA show that around a fifth of students graduate with a 2:2 or Third class degree.

Many students worry that prospects will be severely impacted if they do not achieve a first or 2:1. However there are still plenty of options available. Outside of some graduate schemes and some postgraduate study, specific degree classifications are rarely required.

According to What do graduates do? 2023, the percentages of graduates in full-time employment are very similar for those who graduated with a 2:2 (67%) or Third (69%) to those who graduates with a 1st (71%) or 2:1 (67%).

Can I still do a Graduate Scheme?

Yes! Although most large graduate schemes used to specify a minimum 2:1, more are now removing this minimum requirement. Try searching by 2:2 or Third on graduate job sites.

Consider different roles or organisations

  • Graduate schemes are some of the most visible opportunities due to them recruiting annually in large numbers and so are heavily promoted. However, most students who go directly into graduate jobs do not join these sorts of schemes
  • Most of the companies which offer graduate schemes also recruit people (including graduates!) into other jobs. If you're interested in specific organisations but don’t meet minimum academic requirements for their graduate schemes, look at their other vacancies
  • Small to medium organisations, or SMEs, account for 99.9% of private sector businesses in the United Kingdom, and there are also many more organisations in the public and third (charity) sectors. Vacancies with such organisations can be less visible, but this often means less competition. Use all the advice in our How to find a job section to find suitable opportunities

Thinking about postgraduate study?

  • Whilst a minimum 2:1 is a common entry requirement for many Masters or PhDs in the UK, many programmes have alternative admissions routes or can be more flexible. Contact the institutions in which you are interested to explore possibilities
  • It may also be possible to undertake "top up" courses, or conversion courses. Try searching for opportunities related to your subject area or interests
  • Think about your reasons for undertaking postgraduate study carefully and be aware that not all recruiters who look for a 2:1 will accept a Masters degree as a substitute
  • See Further Study for detailed information and resources