Job application statuses like “Under Consideration” can be unclear and even aggravating if it doesn’t change after a while. Generally, it indicates the employer is still evaluating your application and hasn’t reached a final decision.
In the following sections, we’ll go over what “Under Consideration” means on an application and contrast it with similar application statuses.
Also, we’ll discuss when to use a resume builder or a LinkedIn analyzer to help you strengthen your professional standing while you wait for a decision.
What Does “Under Consideration” Mean?
After applying for a job, “under consideration” means your job application is still being reviewed by the employer. Simply put, you have not been rejected, but the company has not made a final decision yet.
If you see the status on in a job application portal, it may mean:
- A recruiter is currently going over your resume and comparing it with others.
- The recruiter is deciding whether to move you forward.
- The company is waiting to complete internal reviews.
However, the exact meaning depends on the employer and the applicant tracking system they use.
Understanding Application Statuses: “Under Consideration” vs. “Under Review” vs. “In Progress”
Job portals use different status labels, but these three are among the most common. While meanings can change depending on the hiring manager and applicant tracking system (ATS), the table below explains how they are typically used.
| Status | What it usually means | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Under Review | A recruiter or hiring manager is reviewing your application and qualifications. | Your application has been received and is being screened. |
| Under Consideration | You remain an active candidate and have not been ruled out. | Generally a positive sign that you’re still being evaluated. |
| In Progress | The hiring process is moving forward, often involving interviews or assessments. | You may be advancing to the next stage of hiring. |
Is Under Consideration a Good Sign?
If you compare “under consideration” to statuses such as “rejected,” it probably means that your application remains active in the hiring process.
However, it is important to remember that this status does not guarantee an interview or job offer because the hiring manager may still be narrowing down their list of candidates.
Signs your application is moving forward
While nothing is guaranteed, below are a few common signs that you may be advancing.
- You are contacted via email or telephone by a recruiter.
- An invitation for a skills test or assessment is sent to you.
- The organization asks for more information or further documentation.
- A hiring manager or recruiter sets up an interview with you.
How Long Does Under Consideration Last?
How long it takes for your application’s status to change depends on things such as the number of applicants and internal decision-making timelines. Review the table below to have a better idea of what could be going on depending on when you submitted your application.
| Timeframe | What it may mean |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 weeks | Normal review period while recruiters screen candidates and schedule interviews. |
| 2-4 weeks | The hiring team is still evaluating applicants or finalizing decisions. |
| 4+ weeks | Hiring may be delayed, paused, or the application status may not have been updated yet. |
What You Should Do While Your Application Is Under Consideration
While we all know that waiting for a hiring decision can be stressful, there are several productive steps you can take while you’re waiting.
Contact the recruiter or hiring manager
If you haven’t heard back after 7-10 business days, it’s a good idea to send a polite follow-up email to express continued interest in the position.
Keep applying to other jobs
Don’t just sit idly by waiting for one employer’s decision on your resume.
- Continue applying for relevant job openings.
- Improve and tailor your resume for different roles with ResumeCoach’s AI resume builder to increase your chances and get faster responses.
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Prepare for the next step
Being ready can help you move quickly if an employer reaches out.
- Research the company and the position.
- Work with our AI mock interview tool to practice for your interview and avoid being caught off guard.
- Collect professional references or work samples.
However long it’s taking for your application to be reviewed, it’s important to stay prepared and make sure that you are ready for the interview stage or move on to another opportunity in case you are not selected.
Under Consideration on Job Application FAQs
If you still have any doubts about what the “Under Consideration” status could mean, review the answers to the questions below.
Even if you think it’s taking too long, “Under Consideration” means your application is still active and being evaluated by the employer. While it doesn’t guarantee you’ll move forward, it indicates that you have not been rejected and are still being considered.
Even though your application is still being reviewed, it could mean that employers might eventually decide to move forward with other candidates.
The next step depends on the employer. For example, you may receive an interview invitation or a request for additional information. In some cases, the process may end with a rejection or a job offer.
In general, “Under Consideration” is viewed more favorably than “Under Review.” While “Under Review” typically suggests your application is in the initial screening phase, “Under Consideration” usually implies you have moved past that first look and are being treated as an active candidate.
Applications can remain under consideration for weeks when there are a lot of applications at once or if there is a long interview process. There will could also be delays due to unforeseen circumstances. There are other companies that also leave statuses unchanged until the position has been filled or the hiring process is complete.
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