Imagine you’ve just walked off the graduation stage, diploma in hand, eyes sparkling with ambition. The world feels wide open. But then the question hits you like a late-night thought you can’t shake off “Will I actually find a job that matches my degree, or will I be stuck waiting and hoping?”
This is not just your question. It’s the silent concern of thousands of young Cypriots stepping into the labour market every single year. And the answers may surprise you.
The Numbers Paint a Promising Picture
According to the latest Eurostat data, 83.5% of Cypriot graduates (aged 20–34) found employment within a year of finishing their studies. That’s not just above the EU average of 82.3%, it places Cyprus 14th among all EU states.
Sounds reassuring, right? After all, securing a job right after graduation is a milestone many dream of. And compared to countries like Italy (69.6%) or Greece (73.2%), Cyprus is doing exceptionally well.
But let’s pause here.
What’s Behind the Statistics?
Numbers don’t always tell the full story. While employment rates are strong, many young professionals face a different challenge which is the job quality. Some graduates are employed but underqualified for their roles, working in positions that don’t truly reflect their years of study. Others are navigating short-term contracts, part-time jobs, or salaries that barely cover the rising cost of living. Youth unemployment remains at 14.8%, far higher than the overall unemployment rate of 5.0%. Although it’s relatively easy to find a job, finding the right position is a different matter.
Why Education Still Matters
The good news? A university degree continues to act as a protective shield. Those with tertiary education consistently enjoy stronger employment prospects than peers with lower qualifications. In a competitive market like Cyprus, that extra edge matters.
But here’s the twist: overqualification is on the rise. Around 45% of graduates are working in roles that don’t match their academic training. That’s a signal for both employers and jobseekers to rethink alignment between education and market needs.
Ambition vs. Reality
A recent Youth Barometer survey revealed that 60% of young Cypriots list finding employment as their top concern. For many, the dream job isn’t just about paying the bills but rather building a future worth staying in Cyprus for.
Yet half of young people surveyed admitted they’d consider moving abroad for better opportunities. With that thought alone, it becomes more pressing to ask whether Cyprus can keep its young talent engaged and motivated.
Where Do We Go from Here?
At GRS Recruitment, we believe the key lies in bridging the gap:
- Employers need to create more pathways for graduates to apply their knowledge meaningfully.
- Young professionals must learn to leverage transferable skills, adapt quickly, and stay open to opportunities in emerging industries like IT, fintech, and renewable energy
- Together, the market must evolve, mainly to empower and not just to employ.
Because the truth is, finding a job in Cyprus is very possible… but finding the right one requires strategy, guidance, and resilience.
So, what’s waiting for you after graduation? A smooth entry into the workforce or a bumpy ride through uncertainty?
The answer lies in preparation, persistence, and having the right support system to guide your journey. This is why we’re here to connect you with the career that matches your true potential. After all, a job fills your day, but the right career shapes your future.
Explore graduate/entry-level opportunities today or speak to one of our expert consultants for personalised career guidance.