The chart is two rates for recent graduates ages 22 to 27, from the New York Fed for 2026:Q2. Underemployment was 42%, meaning work in a job that typically does not require a degree. Unemployment was about 5.6%.
NACE’s Job Outlook 2026 Spring Update says nearly 70% of respondents describe their hiring as skills-based. That survey ran from 12 February to 17 March 2026. A course that leaves an artifact is the evidence the plan is aiming at. The plan below is a sample.
The skills-based share is from the NACE Job Outlook 2026 Spring Update, survey 12 February to 17 March 2026. NACE
Recent graduates, ages 22 to 27, 2026:Q2
Underemployment
42%
Unemployment
5.6%
See the data
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Underemployment | 42% |
| Unemployment | 5.6% |