Should I Apply if I Don’t Meet the Qualifications?
We often get asked: should I apply to jobs where I don’t fully meet the qualifications?
The answer is yes – you’ll never get a job you don’t apply for! Many job descriptions list qualifications as a wish-list, so employers may still consider candidates who don’t meet every requirement, especially for entry-level roles where internship experience or coursework can count as equivalent experience.
However, some industries have strict qualifications due to legal requirements. If a job lists specific qualifications like a degree or years of experience, you may not be eligible without meeting those criteria and these may be listed as knockout questions on the job application. Preferred qualifications are ideal but not mandatory in these cases, so missing some shouldn’t discourage you from applying.
When deciding whether to apply:
- If you’re close (e.g., they ask for 3 years of experience, and you have 2), you should apply.
- If there’s a significant gap (e.g., they ask for 5 or 7 years, and you have 2), your chances are much lower, and your time may be better spent on roles that are a closer fit.
If you meet most of the qualifications and can make a strong case for your skills, go for it! The most important thing is to ensure that your resume (and cover letter if you submit one) clearly outline how your experience meets the stated qualifications from the role. But, if you’re far off from what they’re asking, consider focusing your efforts on roles where you have a more realistic shot.