Is it legal to require a 'recent graduate' in a job posting?
Requiring a 'recent graduate' can be age discrimination, because it screens out older, experienced applicants. Ask for the skills or credential the job needs instead.
The ADEA protects applicants 40 and older, and the EEOC has treated 'recent graduate' and similar phrasing as a signal that a posting is aimed at younger workers. Even without that intent, the wording invites a claim.
If the real requirement is a degree, a certification, or an entry-level skill set, say that. It is lawful, it is clearer, and it does not shrink your applicant pool by age.
Risky phrasing
“We're looking for a recent graduate to join our team.”
Compliant rewrite
This is an entry-level role open to anyone with a relevant degree or equivalent experience.
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