'Topper of my class, still no job': Graduate spent over Rs 1 crore on UK degree, applied to 500 jobs, got fewer than 20 interviews

A 21-year-old graduate’s job hunt has gone viral, highlighting the UK graduate job market crisis, youth unemployment, and the growing frustration among freshers struggling to land roles despite strong academic credentials.

According to New York Post, Khaled Sharif, a graduate from Kingston University, says he has applied to nearly 500 jobs in the UK but has received fewer than 20 interview calls, and has yet to secure employment.

“Top of My Class… Still No Job”

Sharif, who completed a degree in digital media technology, graduated at the top of his class in 2025. However, instead of transitioning into a career, he has faced repeated rejections.


“I was top of my class, but I still can’t find anything,” he said, reflecting the reality of the graduate job search in the UK.

He has broadened his search beyond his field, applying for roles in sales and other entry-level positions, indicating the level of difficulty in securing even basic employment.

Rs 1 Crore Education, No Job Offers

Sharif stated that he spent approximately $125,000 (over Rs 1 crore) on his education, including tuition and living expenses in the UK. Like many international students, he viewed studying in the UK as a pathway to strong career prospects.

However, he described the current system as “broken”, citing an oversupply of graduates competing for limited job opportunities.

Challenges in the UK Graduate Job Market

Sharif’s experience reflects a broader issue within the UK employment market for graduates.

Key challenges include:

• High competition due to an oversupply of graduates
• Post-pandemic hiring slowdowns
• Companies reducing hiring to cut costs
• Increasing use of automation and AI in entry-level roles

He also noted that even candidates with master’s degrees are facing similar challenges, underlining the intensity of competition.

Work Eligibility Misconceptions

Sharif moved to the UK from Qatar at 18 and has legal residency through his mother. Despite having the right to work, he believes some employers may assume he requires visa sponsorship due to his international background.

This perception may be impacting his chances in an already competitive UK job market for international graduates.

A Broader Concern for Students Studying Abroad

The case raises important questions about the return on investment for studying abroad, particularly in high-cost destinations like the UK.

Many students expect that strong academic performance will lead to employment opportunities. However, this situation highlights the increasing gap between education and job availability.

Sharif’s experience shows a growing reality, simply having a degree, even from a well-known UK university, no longer guarantees a job. With competition intensifying and hiring trends constantly evolving, graduates are finding it increasingly difficult to secure stable opportunities.

His story has also sparked a broader conversation about the UK graduate job market, the rising cost of education, and the challenges international students face when trying to find employment after studying abroad.