"Career ready" is different for graduates, employers

2026-10-27

A disconnect exists among employers, educators and graduates about what "career ready" means, according to Cengage's 2026 Graduate Employability Report. More than 75% of graduates say employers have unrealistic expectations for entry-level jobs, and 25% of those who land such jobs cite internships as the most important factor. Only 37% believe their education was worth the cost, down from 70% in 2022.

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