Graduating in May? When should you start applying to full-time jobs? [Ask a Recruiter]

Ask a Recruiter is an ongoing series that covers topics both large and small facing students who are looking for their first job or internship. This article will focus on when to apply to a full-time job if you’re expecting to graduate in May.

This series is written by Rachel Graham, a University and Diversity Recruiter at Lenovo who specializes in North America opportunities.

Have a question for Rachel about starting your career, interviewing or finding an internship that’s right for you? Add your question in the comments section.

You're getting ready to graduate in May, when should you start applying to full-time jobs?

Many companies have new grad-specific programs, these are roles that are structured to start after common graduation dates. Apply as soon as these roles become available! This can be as early as the September before your graduate date.

If you are applying to roles that aren't specific to new grads, most students begin applying around late February/March (aka NOW!) for a start date in May or June of that year. The average time between a role to open and to the date when a candidate is hired is 43 days in the United States.

Job searching varies greatly based on the industry, job type, company and more so everyone's job search will be unique! Best of luck to those beginning their search and keep going for those in the midst of it!

What questions do you have for recruiters or what do you wish you knew?

Leave your question in a comment below!

Want more expert advice for your job/internship hunt? Click here to view past articles. [Note to CMs: hyperlink “click here” with tag page for “Ask a Recruiter”]

About Rachel:

Rachel graduated from University of North Carolina – Wilmington in May 2019 and began her career at Lenovo soon after. She is a Raleigh, North Carolina native who spends her free time fostering kittens, doing home DIYs and enjoying time with friends and family.