Purpose: The low standing of higher vocational education (HVE) in terms of its class origins and occupational destinations has been widely recognised, yet the empirical evidence regarding HVE graduates’ transition to work is still sparse. This paper aims to investigate HVE graduates’ perceptions and experiences of exclusion in the transition to work in China. Design/methodology/approach: Following a Bourdieusian typology (direct exclusion, self-elimination, relegation and over-selection), we conducted 40 interviews with Chinese HVE graduates from two vocational colleges in this phenomenological study to interpret their understanding of diplomas and jobs. Findings: Combined with a newly identified form of exclusion, stigmatisation, this study presents an expanded typology of exclusion and identifies HVE graduates’ acceptance of being excluded from sought-after jobs and channelling into low-level positions roughly commensurate with their diploma status and class origins. Their subordinated positions and submissive habitus are caused by restricted access to desirable jobs, limited employability capital and stigmatised diplomas. Originality/value: This study identifies the fifth form of exclusion, stigmatisation and highlights the social- and self-imposition of negative stereotypes on HVE graduates. We also provide a framework for revealing HVE graduates’ experiences of diploma-mediated and class-based exclusion in a stratified graduate labour market. © 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited.
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