Almost one-in-five (17%) report a significant reduction in the hiring of entry-level positions due to AI
AI has Reduced Entry-Level Jobs at Half of Companies
A recent survey of 84 C-suite executives at major corporations reveals just how drastically standards for young job seekers have changed in the past few years. Half (50%) of executives report that AI adoption has reduced entry-level positions in their organizations, raising the bar for new graduates trying to enter the workforce. As these roles are minimized, the expectations to fill them have grown. Internships and relevant experience are now seen as “very important” or “essential” by 86% of executives who reported AI-driven reductions in entry-level positions. Jobs once intended for those without prior experience are evolving into something much more demanding.
Entry Level Jobs are Being Redefined
Interestingly, even as half (50%) of executives say AI has reduced entry-level positions, 55% report stable or increased hiring of recent college graduates. Although this seems like a contradiction, report author Dr. Rachel Rubin suggests it instead signals a shift. Companies are redesigning early-career roles to focus on higher skill levels, consolidating duties that once belonged to multiple junior staff, and emphasizing functions that complement AI or rely on uniquely human capabilities.
What Actually Stands Out to Hiring Executives?
Even after graduation, GPA and university prestige continue to remain important to executives hiring for entry level positions. More than four-in-five (83%) consider GPA at least somewhat important in their decisions which implies that many executives may use GPA as a proxy for work ethic and consistency. What university an applicant attended can also influence hiring decisions, with over half (51%) considering university prestige in hiring decisions.
Importance of Soft Skills
When asked the top three skills most lacking in recent college graduates, communication abilities was the most mentioned with half (51%) of executives indicating verbal communication and presentation skills as the most lacking attribute. Problem-solving and critical thinking were mentioned by half (50%) as well, followed by leadership and initiative (44%), and written communication (42%).
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The New Rules of College Graduate Hiring: What C-Suite Executives Really Want in 2025
Research Publisher
Spark Admissions is a boutique college admissions consulting firm led by Harvard doctorate Rachel Rubin and University of Chicago MBA Rachel Blankstein.
Methodology
A survey of n=84 C-suite executives was conducted in April 2025. No additional methodology details have been made available.
