BackgroundNursing students’ perceptions and preparedness can impact their ability and motivation to engage with graduate program application processes. Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore nursing students’ perceptions about their preparedness/work readiness for the graduate process and to identify barriers and enablers which may inform education processes. MethodsSemi-structured interviews, underpinned by the Theory of Planned Behaviour, were undertaken with third-year students enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing course in 2018. Data was recorded and transcribed before inductive thematic analysis was performed. FindingsThree themes were found to impact student perceptions of and preparedness for the graduate program: (i) Standing out from the crowd, (ii) Preparedness for the application process, and (iii) Applying; considering strategic, desirable and personal factors. DiscussionStudent perceptions were primarily affected by the self-evaluation of their ability to “stand out” in a competitive graduate environment. Student preparedness appears as a deficit as they have not considered what an employer wants from potential employees. ConclusionThe findings have implications for students, higher education providers, and employers, begging the question, who is responsible for students being prepared for the graduate recruitment process?