If you’re applying for jobs, one doubt probably keeps bugging you: “Are recruiters going to judge me only by my CGPA or percentage?” Honestly, almost every student thinks about this. And here’s the truth. Yes, your marks matter in some cases, but they’re not the whole story.

Why Recruiters Ask About CGPA in the First Place

It’s not because they’re obsessed with numbers. Recruiters usually ask for your marks because it saves them time. Simple as that.

• They get way too many applications. Grades are the fastest filter.
  
• A steady CGPA shows you were at least consistent.
  
• It gives them an idea of your work ethic — whether you coasted or actually put in effort.
  
• Some companies just set a cut-off rule (like 60% or 6.5 CGPA) because they can’t interview everyone.
  

So, in most cases, your score is less about “intelligence” and more about being an easy way to shortlist.

When Your Grades Actually Matter

There are moments when your CGPA or percentage can really affect the outcome:

• Campus placements – This is where marks are used the most. If you don’t meet the cut-off, you won’t even get in the room.
  
• Freshers – When you don’t have work experience, grades are the only measure on paper.
  
• Competitive sectors – Consulting, finance, and some big tech firms still prefer high scores because of the tough competition.
  
• Government jobs – Here, rules are strict. If the percentage isn’t there, you’re simply not eligible.
  

When Recruiters Stop Bothering About It

Here’s the part most students forget — once you’ve worked a bit, nobody cares what you scored.

• After a year or two, your projects and experience carry more weight.
  
• Startups or creative fields? They want skills and fresh ideas, not just numbers on a mark sheet.
  

Basically, grades help open the first door. After that, they stop being relevant.

What Matters More Than CGPA

Recruiters want people who can actually perform. A perfect CGPA is nice, but these things usually matter more:

• Practical skills you can apply from day one.
  
• Internships and real projects that show initiative.
  
• Communication — because ideas only work if you can explain them.
  
• Problem-solving — employers love people who can figure things out.
  
• Attitude and teamwork — nobody wants a topper with zero people skills.
  

Got a Low CGPA? Here’s How You Can Still Stand Out

It is not possible that everyone will get a high CGPA, but if you got a low CGPA, then don’t worry. You can balance your CGPA score and perform well.

• Write your practical programs and projects that you have done so far at the top of your resume.
  
• Add skills and short courses that are in demand.
  
• Walk into interviews prepared and show confidence.
  
• Mention passion projects, blogs, volunteering — anything that proves initiative.
  
• Use referrals and networks. Sometimes knowing the right people gets you through the cut-off.

Final Thoughts

Yes, your CGPA and percentage matter — but only at the start. Recruiters look for skills and practical experience mostly because this helps them judge whether the person is suitable for the job or not. Also, your CGPA and percentage play an important role here, like an extra skill or a plus point in your resume, and make you stand out among others. So, scoring a better CGPA and, on the other hand, gaining practical experience is the main thing you need to do.