UK graduate job openings fall 45% to 8,383 in July
If you're heading into the job market after graduation, things are looking pretty tough right now.
UK graduate job openings dropped to just 8,383 in July, down a huge 45% from last year.
With 262,820 students starting university this September and automation cutting entry-level jobs, competition is fiercer than ever.
Andrew Hunter calls UK hiring setback
Health care, hospitality, nursing, and logistics have all seen fewer openings lately, a reversal from earlier signs of recovery.
Adzuna co-founder Andrew Hunter summed it up: "July's numbers are a step backwards, not a blip." with job competition now even tougher than in 2025.
Higher National Insurance and minimum-wage costs mean businesses are holding back on hiring.
Calls grow for better skills programs
Even though there are small gains in teaching, travel, and construction jobs, most graduates aren't seeing much hope.
A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research says young people are increasingly worried about their chances in this crowded market.
The call for better support and skills programs is growing louder.