Top Companies that Accept 2:2 Grades for Graduate Trainees

There is no doubt that achieving a good academic result provides a head start. Graduates with a first-class degree often find it easier to secure scholarships or jobs. 

However, in a society where only 5% of students graduate with first-class or second-class upper degrees, and the majority hold a 2:2 (second-class lower), there should not be discrimination based on grades when it comes to opportunities. 

We understand that companies often use academic qualifications to narrow down the pool of candidates for their graduate trainee recruitment. 

While academic excellence is important, graduates with a 2:2 or lower still have an equal opportunity to thrive and succeed in the current Nigerian job market. 

That’s why we at Pass2Pass conducted research to compile a list of companies that accept second class lower degrees for graduate trainee positions.

Apply Now: Graduate Trainee Jobs in 2025

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, commonly known as PwC, is a consulting firm that does not discriminate based on age or educational background. The age eligibility for the PwC Nigeria Graduate Trainee Programme is between 20 and 35 years, and applicants must have at least a second class lower division in their degree.

At PwC, graduate trainees receive a monthly salary ranging from ₦400,000 to ₦435,000.

Ernst & Young (EY)

EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The company develops outstanding leaders who team to deliver on their promises to all of their stakeholders. 

The Ernst & Young Graduate Trainee Program is an opportunity for young Nigerian graduates of accounting and audit interest to learn from the international exposure of EY and its clients.

They accept second-class lower graduates who can demonstrate critical thinking and leadership potential. Graduate trainees are paid between ₦290k – ₦410k monthly.

Access Bank 

Access Entry Level Training Programme career journey starts with a 19-week intensive training program at the School of Banking Excellence (Lagos), giving you an opportunity to be trained with other high caliber applicants from other subsidiaries.

APPLY NOW: 2026 KPMG Nigeria Graduate Trainee Programme

Access Bank accepts graduates with second class lower grades and pay up to ₦340k monthly as remuneration.

First Bank of Nigeria (FBN)

Graduate Trainee Programme – As Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, First Bank considers candidates with second-class lower degrees for its graduate trainee program, emphasizing leadership and technical competencies. As a graduate trainee, you can earn up to ₦350k monthly with some bonuses.

Sterling Bank

Sterling is a place that encourages and celebrates creativity and innovation. Our Graduate Trainee Program serves as a gateway to an exciting career at Sterling. 

We provide unique opportunities for talented individuals interested in the banking sector, regardless of whether they have a second-class lower degree. Sterling Bank offers a stipend of up to 350,000 to our trainees.

Read Also: Bank Graduate Trainee Salary in Nigeria 2025

Unity Bank

Unity Bank requires candidates to have at least a second-class lower division in BA, B.Sc, or HND from accredited higher institutions. Additionally, all candidates must possess their National Youth Service Corps discharge or exemption certificate to be eligible for the entry-level program.

Stanbic IBTC Bank 

Entry-Level Positions (Not GT Programme) – While their formal Graduate Trainee Programme may have stricter requirements, Stanbic IBTC hires second-class lower graduates for entry-level roles, particularly in customer service and sales.

ipNX Nigeria 

The IpNX Graduate Trainee Program offers Nigerian graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while working directly with inspiring and experienced professionals in the telecommunications and technology sectors. The company hires graduates with strong technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities, regardless of their degree classification.

Food Concepts Plc 

As one of the leading companies in the food and hospitality industry, Food Concepts Plc provides opportunities for 2:2 graduates in management trainee roles, focusing on customer engagement and operational efficiency.

How to Secure Graduate Trainee Position with Second-Class Lower Grade

Unemployment is a significant issue in Nigeria, with a large population of graduates being underemployed or unemployed. To secure employment, follow these guidelines, and you will be prepared for job opportunities.

Mindset: 

This is the first step towards overcoming the challenge of having a low grade. Accept the reality that it may be tougher for you compared to other graduates with higher grades, and start preparing for it. 

Understand that you will likely need to prove yourself and work harder than others. Instead of complaining about how unfair life has been, recognize that life itself is a challenge. Acknowledge the obstacles ahead of you and brace yourself for them. Avoid wasting precious time on regrets, and don’t fall into the trap of developing an inferiority complex.

Network: 

The most common way people secure employment is through referrals—someone who knows you and can vouch for your skills and qualifications. To receive a referral, it is crucial to network and connect with others. Therefore, learning to network effectively is essential. Focus on improving your interpersonal skills and honing your networking abilities.

Professional Certificates or Master Degree:

There is a significant difference between holding a BSc (2.2) in Accounting and having a BSc (2.2) in Accounting plus ICAN certification. The same applies to a BSc (2.2) in Electrical Engineering compared to a BSc (2.2) in Electrical Engineering plus an MSc (with distinction) in Software Engineering. Some companies are open to considering a 2.2 degree if it is accompanied by a master’s degree. 

For instance, the recent NNPC advertisement for entry-level positions accepted applicants with a 2.2, provided they also held a master’s degree. Additionally, aspiring for an academic career can be a viable option, depending on the quality of your postgraduate results. Therefore, it is advisable to consider a reputable postgraduate program.

Upskills: 

We are in an era where graduates with skills are valued more than those with just a degree. Your skills can significantly enhance your employability. It’s important to learn new skills that align with your degree or that you are passionate about.

You can acquire skills in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analysis, project management, and financial analysis, among many others, which are highly sought after in the workplace.

Mentorship: 

There is nothing more inspiring than seeing others who have faced similar struggles and successfully overcome them. It’s beneficial to find one or two mentors who can share their experiences and provide guidance in your career pursuits. Their insights can help you navigate your own challenges more effectively.

Apply Now: Graduate Trainee Job Opportunities