Heya all,I recently graduated from Oxford in 2006...unfortunately, I ended up with a 2:2 MEng in Engineering & Computing Science.Since graduating, I worked alongside a group jointly started up a Vocational & Professional Education and Training firm. It has been a great hands on experience, but I'm looking to expand my career.I've applied to the big four accountancy firms for their graduate roles in IT advisor and have met with disappointment (with the 2:2 being the main hurdle).Are there any tech consultancy firms that offer grad schemes and accept a 2:2? LogicaCMG comes into mind here (but will like to know any other if possible).ThanksRay

Believe that Accenture Technology Solutions accept graduates with a 2:2.You could also look at joining the Outsourcing division of one of the major SI players, exceeding expectations during your first year and then using this to leverage a move across to the Technology / Consulting division. This might be possible somewhere like Capgemini.Good luck

Thanks Howdy :)I'm planning to apply to ATS...but apparently, according to other posts here, it is next to impossible to move from ATS -> Consulting in Accenture. I dunno whether this is still the case though.Additionally, regarding work as a startup company director - is it possible to use a fellow director as a Employer Reference? (or will it be regarded as a conflict of interests?)

Ray, you have a very good degree. I don't know why a 2:1 has for some reason become a gold standard. I don't that it's fair that your 2:2 from a very difficult course is causing you problems. Guys - how can Raymond deal with this? He's obviously a very bright guy and it just doesn't seem right that he's being put at a disadvantage. Not all degrees are the same yet he's being dinged because these firms are treating a 2:1 like a generic commodity. Ray, do you get filtered out right at the start of the application, or later on midway through interviews?

> Ray, do you get filtered out right at the start of the application, or later on midway through interviews?For pretty much most of my applications, I've got rejected straightaway. Their general consensus is my degree grade. :(Thanks for the help and replies guys...much appreciated. I just hope it all works out

Ray, I like your honesty and approach to things.I was in your situation many years ago and I know how you must feel. Keep your chin up, you're a star and you know it. Don't feel you have to follow the crowd by getting on a graduate training scheme, I have a feeling you're more of an entrepreneur than that.Keep us updated with your job search. If you're still struggling in 1.5 months time, I'll pull a few strings for you.

Thank you anon, your words are refreshing to read. I mean, it can sometimes get so demoralizing when you're trying your best for these applications and it falls flat almost immediately (PWC took only 2 days to respond).I guess you just gotta keep on ploughing on. I will definitely keep you guys up to date with any progress! :)

I'd recommend getting a job doing anything that you can. Maybe on a non-consulting grad scheme. From there, apply in 6 months to a year time, when 2:2 may not matter so much.Alternatively, do a masters. Many firms push you up to a 2:1 with this (i.e. let you in the front door).Or... register CV anywhere and everywhere you can. Big yourself up. Speak to agencies, get on Monster.co.uk, register on this site, anything. Calls should start coming in as long as you do a good job of it. Best of luck!!!