2026 Job Market Insights: Top IT Companies According to Students' Preferences

In a recent report, the Broadcasting Culture Career Partners Co. in Tokyo has disclosed the rankings of preferred employers in the IT sector for students graduating in 2026. Conducted as part of their annual job market survey, this ranking provides insights into the evolving preferences of young talent entering the job market.

Overview of the Ranking

The survey gathered responses from nearly 20,000 students, including both undergraduates and graduates. The results reflect the current trends among students regarding their dream companies, segmented into various categories of the IT industry. Rankings were established based on responses to multiple job brand-related inquiries, showing a clear picture of what sectors attract the most interest.

Top 5 Rankings by Sector

Software Sector Rankings:

1. Sky
2. NTT Data
3. Fuji Soft
4. IBM Japan Group
5. Cybird

The software sector has shown a significant inclination towards established brands, with Sky taking the lead, followed closely by NTT Data, highlighting a strong preference for innovation and reliable solutions.

Telecommunications Sector Rankings:

1. NTT East
2. JCOM
3. KDDI
4. NTT Docomo
5. SoftBank Group

In telecommunications, leading firms such as NTT East and JCOM dominate the field, indicating that students value established companies with solid market presence and extensive service networks.

IT Hardware Manufacturers Rankings:

1. Hitachi Solutions
2. NEC Solutions Innovators
3. Hitachi Systems
4. Mitsubishi Electric Software
5. NEC Networks and System Integration

Particularly in the hardware manufacturing sector, companies maintaining a reputation for technological excellence seem to attract students, as evidenced by the top ranks.

Financial User Sector Rankings:

1. MS&AD Systems
2. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust Systems
3. Meiji Yasuda System Technology
4. Mitsubishi UFJ Information Technology
5. Tokio Marine & Nichido Systems

The preference for financial user companies indicates the importance of stability and career potential in this high-stakes environment.

Trading & Manufacturing User Sector Rankings:

1. Nippon Steel Solutions
2. Itochu Techno-Solutions
3. SCSK
4. Sony Global Solutions
5. JFE Systems

Students are also turning their attention to trading and manufacturing firms, where tech plays an increasing role in operations.

Infrastructure User Sector Rankings:

1. JSOL
2. Dentsu Research
3. ANA Systems
4. Tata Consultancy Services Japan
5. Yamato System Development

Candidates in search of opportunities in infrastructure find a mix of traditional and modern firms appealing, recognizing the competitive edge that technology brings.

Independent Firms Rankings:

1. Otsuka Shokai
2. Nihon Business Systems
3. Software Service
4. Net One Systems
5. TIS

The independent sector showcases a strong presence too, with Otsuka Shokai leading the charge, indicating interest in firms that can offer unique services.

Web Service Rankings:

1. Google
2. Rakuten Group
3. Mercari
4. CyberAgent
5. Amazon Japan

Lastly, the web services segment sees heavyweights like Google taking the top slot, underscoring the allure these tech giants have on the upcoming workforce.

Conclusion

This extensive survey provides valuable insights into the preferences of the future workforce in the IT industry, reflecting broader trends within the job market. The detailed reports are available via the following links:

As we approach 2026, the results significantly contribute to understanding how educational institutions and organizations can better align their programs and services to meet the aspirations of new graduates. For detailed information on methodologies and further analysis, interested parties can download the comprehensive report from the company's website.