How to get your dream graduate role with a 2:2 degree

Think recruiters are only looking for grads with a 2:1 or a 1st? Think again. There are lots of employers keen to welcome candidates with a 2:2. After all, getting a degree is an impressive achievement – whatever the classification.

We’ll run through:

• What is a 2:2 graduate degree?
• Is a 2:2 bad?
• Can I get a graduate job with a 2:2?
• How to boost your chances of getting your dream role with a 2:2 degree

Short for Lower Second-Class Honours, a 2:2 (sometimes written as 2.2, 2ii or II-2) is a UK undergraduate degree that’s usually been achieved with a mark of 50-59%. Technically, universities set their own grade boundaries, but they generally stick to the standard 50-59%.

Universities calculate your final grade based on what you’ve achieved throughout your course. Some assessments carry more weight than others, so a high mark in your dissertation will usually influence your final grade more than a small-group presentation, for example. If you score a 56 in a major course element, that doesn't necessarily mean you'll graduate with a 2:2. Depending on your other grades, you might get a higher overall grade (ie. a 2:1 with 60-69% overall or even a 1st with 70% or higher) or a lower one (ie. a 3rd with 40-49%). Some unis will round up people on the grade boundary cusps if they’ve just missed out on a certification. So, if your final grade comes out at 49.5, it’s possible that you’ll still receive a 2:2.

Undergraduate degrees are the first degree level (ie. after A-levels or equivalent qualifications and experience). Master’s degrees have a different grading system (usually Distinction, Merit and Pass, with Pass being the equivalent of a 2:2).

Thinking of a master’s? While particular postgraduate courses will require higher course marks (like how you need certain A-level grades to get into uni), it is possible to do a master’s with a 2:2.

Having a 2:2 reflects completing a degree where you’ve, typically, achieved at least 50% across your assignments. It means you've still passed your degree.

Getting a degree is hard work, so finishing your course is an achievement in itself. If you’ve done your best and graduated with a 2:2, you shouldn't feel ashamed or like you have a 'bad' degree.

If you were expecting a higher grade, it’s OK to be disappointed (you’re only human!) but don’t diminish what a big deal having a degree is.

Of course, you can definitely get a graduate job with a 2:2. Employers realise there are more things to look for in a candidate than their degree classification.

Although the most competitive grad job ads state minimum grade requirements (usually a 2:1), plenty of graduate programmes welcome candidates with a 2:2. Sometimes, the degree grade in the advert is a ‘nice-to-have’ rather than a compulsory requirement. Thankfully, most recruiters know it’s best to judge a candidate as a whole rather than just based on one factor.

Looking for a grad role? Start applying to graduate schemes today with our handy application deadline list.

All in all, having a 2:2 will only make a big difference if you let it. Equally, getting a 2:1 or 1st won’t make your job hunt any easier if you don’t put the effort in. Your degree certification doesn’t determine how successful you’ll be in the world of work. Often, the most important parts of a job application will be the questions the employer asks about your experience and motivation instead.

Here are a few tips to help you achieve your potential and secure a graduate job with a 2:2 degree:

Yes, it’s true – some companies have a 2:1 as the minimum entry requirement to a job role. However, some say that just to cut through the number of applicants they receive daily. While it’s important to read job ads thoroughly, if that’s the only criteria you don’t match then there’s no harm applying anyway.

Just be honest about your classification, and make sure that you emphasise the skills and experience you have that might make up for that one missed requirement.

Ultimately, job-hunting comes down to perseverance. If you're passionate about pursuing a career in a particular field, you’ll know what’s needed and you’ll find a way to be successful.

Even if it doesn’t quite pan out and you don’t get the graduate scheme you’re after, you’ve got other options. If you don’t get onto a grad programme, find another way in (eg. work experience).

Experience and real-world knowledge count far more than your degree mark.

Only a small percentage of businesses will focus on your grade. There are so many things you can do with your degree – whatever the subject and certification. In lots of career routes, grades count for very little. It just depends on what you want to do.

If you miss out on a highly competitive scheme that won’t budge on its grade requirement, it doesn’t mean you won’t have an amazing career. With a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard, you’ll go far whatever you do.

Remember, a 2:2 doesn’t reflect anything other than academics. You’ll have tons of attributes that you’ll use at work – and it’s those qualities that employers are looking for. There are so many ways to apply your skills – some of which will be in industries you haven’t even thought about.

Need inspiration? Here are ten things to help you kick-start your career.

Whatever grade you get at uni, you’ve got to put the work into carving out a career. Having a degree doesn’t guarantee your dream role. Your first job is getting a job!

If you graduate with a 2:2, there’s very little you won’t be able to do. Even if your dream job is inaccessible, get creative. Perhaps there are similar roles in other locations or sectors that you haven’t considered. Alternatively, find another way in. If you can’t get onto a graduate programme with a 2:2, prove yourself with work experience or an internship instead.

There are no rules when it comes to forging your career. Every decision you make is right for you at the time. Plus, anything that doesn’t suit you in the end is part of the learning process.

Whatever you do, we wish you the best of luck!