55% of graduates value long-term stability when choosing a company, and 62% prioritise salary, according to the Graduate Outlook Survey 2026 by the CFA Institute.
The economic uncertainty and the rise of artificial intelligence are redefining the priorities of young talent in Spain. According to the Graduate Outlook Survey 2026, conducted by the CFA Institute, Spanish students and recent graduates are now betting on financial stability and continuous learning as ways to ensure their employability.
The report, which analyses the expectations of university students and graduates in several countries, reveals that 62% of respondents in Spain consider salary to be the most important factor when choosing a company. This is closely followed by long-term job stability, mentioned by 55%. Both figures exceed those recorded in 2025, confirming a shift towards a more pragmatic view of the job market.
Confidence in the Financial Sector Grows Despite Entry Barriers
29% of young people believe that the financial sector offers the best professional prospects, a perception that has been steadily increasing since 2023, according to the study. However, concerns about competition among candidates have doubled in just one year, rising from 8% to 16%. Additionally, 19% cite the scarcity of opportunities in their desired sector as their main concern.
Despite these challenges, eight out of ten (82%) are confident in finding a job in their preferred sector, and 90% believe they possess the necessary skills to develop their careers. Practical experience is solidifying as the key differentiator: 52% have completed internships and 45% consider them the key factor for entering the job market.
Artificial Intelligence Reinforces Demand for Human Skills
The advancement of AI generates an ambivalent view among young Spaniards. On one hand, 63% believe that AI will make it harder to obtain the desired job. On the other hand, 77% feel prepared to use it in their work, and 69% already use it to prepare applications or search for opportunities. The most relevant data is that 82% believe that interpersonal skills — such as critical thinking, communication, or teamwork — will be even more important in an AI-dominated environment.
Luis Buceta, president of CFA Society Spain, notes in the report that "practical experience, continuous learning, and professional certifications are becoming clearly differentiating elements for accessing higher quality jobs." He adds that, in a context where AI transforms many functions, "analytical skills, critical thinking, professional judgement, and ethical behaviour will remain especially valuable."
University-Company Collaboration is Key to Employability
The study emphasises that employability no longer depends solely on academic training. 53% of young people value practical projects developed during university as one of the most useful aspects of their education. This reinforces the need for companies and educational institutions to strengthen ties to facilitate the transition to the labour market.
For graduates, 78% consider it important for organisations to offer upskilling and reskilling opportunities, reflecting the expectation that continuous learning will be crucial for maintaining employability throughout their careers. In this regard, those seeking employment should prioritise companies with internal training programmes and that value practical experience.
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