Mynavi Releases 'April 2026 Survey on Career Intentions of University Students Graduating in 2028 <Internship & Career Development Activities>'
Mynavi has released the results of a survey on career intentions for university and graduate students scheduled to graduate in 2028. While motivation to participate in career development activities is high, the results reveal that many students struggle with self-understanding.
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- 📰 Published: May 21, 2026 at 21:00
- 🔍 Collected: May 21, 2026 at 12:31
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 21, 2026 at 12:44 (12 min after Collected)
Mynavi Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director, President and Executive Officer: Shunsuke Awai) has released the results of the 'April 2026 Survey on Career Intentions of University Students Graduating in 2028 ,' conducted among university and graduate students across Japan.
◆ 19.1% Participated in Career Development Activities in April
19.1% of students scheduled to graduate in 2028 participated in career development programs such as internships in April. Specifically, 4.0% participated in 'internships' (programs of 5 days or longer including practical work), 14.4% in 'open company & career education programs' (mainly for understanding companies and work), and 3.8% in 'work experience programs' (short-term hands-on work).
◆ Average of 7.9 Programs Students Wish to Participate In; 'Not Knowing Which Industry/Company Fits Me' Is the Top Concern
When asked how many companies they wish to participate in, the average was 7.9. 34.4% of students answered '10 or more,' showing high motivation. Regarding their approach, 82.0% want to 'broaden their interests,' significantly higher than the 14.6% who want to 'narrow their interests.' Among students searching for jobs, the top concern was 'not knowing which industry or company suits me' (45.7%).
◆ 48.6% Participation Rate in Lower Years (1st and 2nd Year University Students)
48.6% of students participated in career development activities during their early university years, with about half experiencing activities from an early stage. Popular activities include 'career education provided through university classes' (22.7%) and 'university-sponsored open company programs' (20.7%). These early activities serve as a trigger for students to think seriously about working and their future, leading to positive changes in awareness.
Kosuke Hattori, a researcher at Mynavi Career Research Lab, commented, 'Students have high motivation, but many are also confused about self and industry understanding. I encourage them to actively participate in programs to deepen their understanding.'
FAQ
What challenges do students face in career development activities?
The most common challenge (45.7%) is 'not knowing which industry or company suits me,' indicating a need for deeper self- and company understanding.
Are career development activities in early years important?
About half (48.6%) participate, which helps them form concrete images of working and triggers positive shifts in their awareness regarding the future.
How many internship programs do students want to participate in?
On average, they want to participate in 7.9 programs, showing high motivation to broaden their perspective rather than limiting themselves to specific industries.