India, July 17: As artificial intelligence reshapes the world of work and as conversations around World Youth Skills Day and World AI Day turn the spotlight on the skills of the future, Indian graduates are sending a clear message: career success will be defined by continuous learning, practical skills, and professional qualifications rather than academic credentials alone.
Findings from the 2026 CFA Institute Graduate Outlook Survey reveal that graduates are increasingly prioritising workplace-ready capabilities to strengthen their employability in a rapidly evolving job market.
The skills imperative: graduates seek an edge
Indian graduates are increasingly looking beyond traditional academic pathways to strengthen their career prospects. Nearly seven in ten (69 percent) believe professional certifications provide greater value for career progression than postgraduate degrees. Furthermore, 82 percent agree that these qualifications improve earning potential and offer a distinct competitive edge.
Compared to their global peers, Indian graduates are significantly more likely to pursue professional certifications, internships, and portfolio development during their undergraduate studies. This proactive approach reflects a growing focus on acquiring practical, hands-on experience before formally entering the workforce.
Arati Porwal, Senior Country Head – India, CFA Institute, said:
“The survey reflects a clear shift in mindset among Indian graduates. It’s refreshing to see the value they have placed in continuous learning, practical skills and adaptability for career success in today’s AI-enabled economy. At CFA Institute, we are committed to fostering this mindset by equipping young professionals with the skills, knowledge and professional development opportunities they need to stay competitive and build long-term career success.”
Embracing AI While Valuing Human Skills
Artificial intelligence is becoming an integral part of graduates‘ career journeys. The survey found that 85 percent of Indian graduates already use AI tools to support job and internship applications – a figure substantially higher than the global average.
Despite this widespread adoption, graduates understand that interpersonal capabilities remain their greatest differentiator. Nearly seven in ten respondents (68 percent) identify soft skills as providing the strongest advantage in today’s job market, placing them ahead of AI-related technical capabilities.
At the same time, graduates acknowledge the shifting dynamics of recruitment. AI screening has emerged as the second-largest career concern among Indian graduates, cited by 15 percent of respondents, trailing only behind competition from peers . Nevertheless, graduates who report the highest levels of career confidence attribute their optimism to a combination of strong academic preparation, previous work experience, and their ability to use AI effectively to enhance productivity.
Speaking at the report launch, Yasmin Singaporewala, Head of Accounting & Finance Department, Jai Hind College said:
“Preparing students for the future is no longer just about delivering academic knowledge,it is about equipping them with confidence, adaptability and practical skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace. As technology reshapes industries, educational institutions have a greater responsibility to bridge classroom learning with real-world experiences, industry exposure and professional development opportunities. The CFA Institute Graduate Outlook Survey reinforces that today’s graduates understand the value of continuous upskilling and lifelong learning, helping them transition more confidently into a dynamic and increasingly AI-enabled workforce.”
Resilience in a Competitive Market
The survey highlights the adaptability of India‘s emerging workforce as graduates navigate a changing labour market. Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) have accepted a role outside the subject of their undergraduate degree due to current job market conditions, significantly higher than the global average. Encouragingly, 77 percent report that their current or most recent role has met their expectations for both job satisfaction and career growth.
Although career concerns remain widespread, graduates continue to demonstrate strong confidence in their future, reporting an average career confidence score of approximately eight out of ten despite ongoing economic uncertainty.
Pramod Shah, Chief Human Resources Officer, ECL Finance Limited added:
“The workplace is changing faster than ever, and the skills that make professionals successful today may not be enough tomorrow. What increasingly sets candidates apart is their willingness to keep learning, adapt to new technologies, and complement technical expertise with critical thinking, problem-solving and strong people skills. The findings from the surveyreflect this shift well.”