From Degrees to Skills: Why Companies Are Dropping the Degree Requirement

The End of the Degree Era?

In 2026, 60% of major global companies have announced dropping the degree requirement for most positions. Google, Apple, IBM, and even major Saudi companies have begun adopting the "Skills-First" approach. What does this mean for you?

What Is the Skills-First Approach?

Definition

Skills-based hiring focuses on:

• What you can do rather than where you studied
• Real achievements rather than theoretical degrees
• Demonstrable skills rather than years listed on paper

Why Are Companies Shifting?

Reason

Percentage

Degrees don't reflect real competency	73% of hiring managers
Difficulty finding qualified candidates by traditional criteria	65%
Skills change faster than university curricula	80%
Expanding the candidate pool	58%

Companies That Adopted Skills-First

Globally

• Google: Dropped degree requirements for most tech positions
• Apple: Focuses on projects and practical skills
• IBM: Launched the "New Collar Jobs" initiative
• Tesla: Prefers practical experience over degrees

In Saudi Arabia

• Tech startups have begun adopting the approach
• Accredited training programs are replacing traditional degrees
• Vision 2030 initiatives focus on skills

How to Benefit from This Shift?

1. Build a Strong Skills Portfolio

```

Accredited Certifications + Real Projects + Documented Achievements = Strong Skills Portfolio

```

Reliable Certification Sources:

• Google Career Certificates
• AWS Certifications
• Microsoft Learn
• Coursera Professional Certificates
• Udacity Nanodegrees

2. Document Achievements with Numbers

❌ Weak:

"I work in programming and have good experience"

✅ Strong:

"Developed 3 apps with 50,000+ downloads and contributed to open-source projects with 200+ commits"

3. Build a Portfolio

Portfolio types by field:

Field

Portfolio Type

Programming	GitHub, open-source projects
Design	Behance, Dribbble
Marketing	Case studies, successful campaigns
Writing	Personal blog, published articles
Sales	Achievement numbers and growth

4. Restructure Your CV

#### Old Structure (Education-First):

1. Education

2. Experience

3. Skills

#### New Structure (Skills-First):

1. Core Skills Summary

2. Achievements and Projects

3. Work Experience

4. Certifications and Training

5. Education (optional)

Most In-Demand Skills in 2026 (No Degree Required)

Technical Skills

1. Data Analysis (Python, SQL, Power BI)

2. Digital Marketing and SEO

3. Web Development (JavaScript, React)

4. Cybersecurity

5. Project Management (Agile, Scrum)

Soft Skills

1. Effective Communication

2. Problem Solving

3. Critical Thinking

4. Self-Learning

5. Leadership and Influence

How to Prove Your Skills to Companies?

Methods of Proof

1. Practical Tests: Many companies conduct skills assessments

2. Trial Projects: Offer to solve a real problem

3. Recommendations: From previous clients or colleagues

4. Accredited Certifications: From trusted platforms

5. Published Content: Articles, videos, projects

Astr Supports the Skills-First Approach

Astr templates are designed to showcase your skills:

• Smart Skills Section: Appears at the top of the CV
• Keyword Optimization: To match job requirements
• Achievement Highlights: Transform tasks into measurable results
• Fresh Graduate Template: Perfect for those relying on skills

Conclusion

The "degree first" era is ending. Smart companies are looking for real skills and documented achievements. Whether you're a university graduate or self-taught, the opportunity is yours to stand out based on what you can actually do.

Create your skills-based CV with Astr and start your journey toward your dream job.