The purpose of this qualitative research study is to explore COVID-19 effects on South African university students and graduates’ experiences of career development and migration aspirations, using Stellenbosch University as a case study. Qualitative interviews (N=30) were conducted with university students and thematic analysis was used. Participants felt that the restrictive COVID measures increased unemployment levels in South Africa and young adults’ difficulties in transitioning to the world of work. Increased levels of migration aspirations were mentioned by participants to facilitate access to sustainable employment in a global workforce. This study provides useful information and recommendations for international career researchers and practitioners on how to integrate COVID life experiences in career development trajectories.