“Under Consideration” Meaning on Job Applications: What It Means, Why It Takes Time & What to Do Next

You submitted your application and then—nothing. A week or two later, you log back in and see the recruiter status: “under consideration.” The phrase sounds promising, but it also leaves you wondering: does “under consideration” mean you’re being actively reviewed, or are you stuck in limbo?

This guide breaks down the under consideration meaning in real hiring terms, what it usually signals in the recruiter pipeline, and what you can do next to improve your odds—without annoying the people reviewing your file.

What does “under consideration” meaning on a job application really mean?

“Under consideration” meaning is usually a signal that your application is currently in the reviewer pool for evaluation. It generally means the employer hasn’t rejected you yet and hasn’t moved you to a different stage (like interview scheduling) that would be reflected in the system.

In practice, “under consideration” can cover a few different internal realities:

• Reviewer queue: your application is awaiting review by a recruiter or hiring manager.
• Shortlisting: your profile is being compared against other applicants for the next step.
• Batch processing: applications are reviewed in waves, so the status updates don’t always change quickly.

Key takeaway: “Under consideration” is a “not a no” status—your materials are being evaluated—but it doesn’t automatically mean an interview is next.

Is “under consideration” the same as “in progress,” “in process,” or “active review”?

Sometimes they overlap, but they aren’t always identical—different employers use statuses differently in their applicant tracking systems (ATS) and workflow logic.

Here’s a practical way to think about it:

• Under consideration often emphasizes that you are being evaluated.
• In progress / in process can refer to multiple steps (including system processing, internal handoffs, or scheduling coordination).
• Active review typically suggests a reviewer is actively looking at candidates, though timing still varies.

If you’re comparing meanings across postings, the safest assumption is: the status tells you where you are in a broad process, but exact timing and next steps depend on the company’s internal workflow.

Key takeaway: Don’t treat these labels as interchangeable guarantees—use them as “directional signals” and watch for explicit next steps (email invitations, interview links, requests for additional materials).

What does “under consideration” mean if I applied through Workday?

For Workday-style workflows, “under consideration” generally indicates your application has not been closed or rejected and is within an active decision phase managed by recruiters and hiring teams.

Because Workday deployments vary by organization, the label can map to different internal stages. Typically, the status reflects that the file is still within the scope of review and selection activities—meaning your application hasn’t been marked as declined, withdrawn, or completed in the way some companies display for “done” outcomes.

What you should do with this information:

• Stay responsive: recruiters may contact you suddenly for scheduling or screening.
• Check required inputs: if the system asks for supplemental information, complete it promptly.
• Don’t stall other applications: keep applying while you wait—“under consideration” doesn’t freeze the process.

Key takeaway: In Workday contexts, “under consideration” usually means your profile is still in the active evaluation loop—not a definitive outcome.

What does “under consideration” mean if I applied through Greenhouse?

In Greenhouse-like systems, “under consideration” typically means your application is still part of the hiring pipeline where recruiters may shortlist and evaluate candidates.

Greenhouse deployments often emphasize consistent pipeline stages, but status wording still differs by employer configuration. In most cases, “under consideration” points to an active stage where the company is deciding who should move forward, rather than a closed outcome.

While you’re waiting, prioritize actions that help recruiters move faster:

• Keep your contact info current: if you recently changed email/phone, update where possible.
• Prepare for quick turnaround: you may be asked for availability, a work sample, or short screening questions.
• Tailor your follow-up: reference the role and one relevant strength—avoid generic “just checking in” messages.

Key takeaway: “Under consideration” in a Greenhouse workflow commonly means you’re still being evaluated—so respond quickly if they reach out and follow up professionally if time passes.

What does “under consideration” mean if I applied through Lever?

With Lever-style applicant tracking, “under consideration” usually signals that the employer has not finalized your outcome and has kept your application in an active review state.

Even when Lever is configured with structured stages, the “under consideration” wording can still be employer-specific. The key takeaway is consistency: you’re not marked as rejected yet, and the hiring team is still considering your fit relative to other applicants.

Use that signal to plan your next move:

• Continue your job search: keep expanding your funnel, because evaluation can lag behind your submission.
• Monitor inbound requests: recruiters may message you through email or the system.
• Use a time-based follow-up: follow up once after a reasonable window rather than repeatedly.

Key takeaway: In Lever contexts, “under consideration” typically means “still in the running”—not “already decided.”

What does “under consideration” mean if I applied through Ashby?

If you applied through an Ashby-based process, “under consideration” generally indicates your application is in an active review phase that can lead to interview invites, additional questions, or rejection later.

Ashby is often used for recruiting workflows where roles move through structured steps. Still, statuses and labels vary by company configuration, so “under consideration” should be treated as a broad indicator: your candidacy is under review, but the final decision hasn’t been posted.

Here’s how to handle this status efficiently:

1. Re-check the posting: confirm any qualifications or must-have requirements.
2. Verify your application completeness: ensure you included key details and any requested materials.
3. Set a reminder: plan one follow-up after enough time has passed for review cycles.

Key takeaway: “Under consideration” in an Ashby workflow is usually “active consideration,” so keep moving—and be ready for a quick outreach.

What should I do while my application is “under consideration”?

While you’re under consideration, your best strategy is to stay ready and keep options open. This status often means you’re waiting on reviewer time and internal coordination.

Here’s a clear checklist you can follow immediately:

• Watch for requests: recruiters may ask for availability, portfolio/work samples, or brief screening answers.
• Polish your interview readiness: review your resume talking points and tailor common stories to the role.
• Track your applications: keep notes on dates and status changes so your follow-ups are accurate.
• Apply to other roles that match: don’t pause your pipeline because one application is still “under consideration.”
• Set one follow-up reminder: choose a single, professional time to check in (details below).

One important mindset shift: treat “under consideration” as a phase where you can still improve the recruiter’s experience of evaluating you. Clear communication, prompt responses, and continued relevant applications all help.

Key takeaway: The status is informational, not a verdict—so manage your time like you’re still in competition.

How long should I wait before following up on an “under consideration” status?

A reasonable follow-up window helps you stay visible without becoming a nuisance. There isn’t one universal standard, but a time-based approach keeps you grounded.

A common rule of thumb is:

• Wait 7–14 business days after the status shows “under consideration,” then send a brief check-in.
• Use the job posting timeline if it provides an explicit “review by” or “target start” window.

If you were asked to complete assessments or answer screening questions, factor in the additional time required for review. If there’s been no change after your follow-up, one more polite message is usually enough—then focus on new applications and interview prep.

Key takeaway: Follow up once after a reasonable window; after that, let the process play out and keep your pipeline moving.

What does “under consideration” mean vs “rejected,” “not selected,” or “closed”?

“Under consideration” vs rejected/closed is the difference between “still evaluating” and “decision finalized.”

Statuses vary by ATS, but the practical distinction is straightforward:

Application status you see	What it usually means	Recommended action
Under consideration	Your application is in an active reviewer pool; the employer hasn’t finalized and posted a “no” or “decision complete.”	Keep applying, be ready to respond fast, and consider a single follow-up after 7–14 business days.
In progress / in process	Ongoing steps are happening (could include internal processing, review, or coordination).	Maintain readiness and continue your search; follow up only after a reasonable review period.
Interview scheduled / invitation received	They’ve moved you to a next stage.	Confirm logistics, review common questions, and prepare your story examples.
No longer under consideration / not selected / rejected	The company has closed the loop and decided not to move forward.	Ask for feedback if appropriate, then focus on new tailored applications.
Application closed / job filled	The role may be closed due to internal decisions or the hiring pipeline ending.	Look for similar postings and apply quickly to new matches.
Withdrawn / cancelled	Your application was removed—either by you or by a system update.	Reapply if appropriate and confirm you submitted all required materials.

Key takeaway: “Under consideration” is usually a holding state; rejected/closed statuses are the “decision made” signals you can act on immediately.

Can “under consideration” ever mean you’re just waiting in a queue?

Yes—sometimes “under consideration” primarily reflects a queue rather than active, immediate decision-making. Hiring teams often receive large volumes of applications, and review happens in batches. That can leave you in the same status even while decisions are moving behind the scenes.

What this looks like in real life:

• Status stays unchanged for a while even though recruiters are sorting candidates.
• Communication is delayed until a reviewer completes the shortlist and scheduling begins.
• Updates are inconsistent across roles within the same company.

If this happens, your action should be calm and strategic: follow up once after a reasonable time, then focus on interviews and other applications.

Key takeaway: If “under consideration” feels slow, treat it as a queue and manage your timeline accordingly.

What should a follow-up email say when your application is “under consideration”?

A strong follow-up is short, specific, and respectful of recruiter bandwidth. Your goal is to re-signal interest and make it easy for them to update you or move you forward.

Copy this template and customize the bracketed sections:

Subject: [Role Title] – Application Follow-Up

Hello [Recruiter Name/Team],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m following up on my application for the [Role Title] position submitted on [Date]. I remain very interested in the role, especially the opportunity to contribute to [one relevant responsibility or theme from the posting].

If there’s anything else I can provide to support your review—such as additional details or work samples—I’d be glad to share. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards, [Your Name] [Phone] | [Email] | [LinkedIn/Portfolio (optional)]

Keep it under about 150–200 words when possible. Avoid asking for guaranteed timelines; instead, ask whether there’s anything else needed to evaluate you.

Key takeaway: Use a brief template, reference the role clearly, and offer useful additional info—don’t pressure for a specific outcome.

How does “under consideration” affect your next steps in interviews and job search?

“Under consideration” should change your pace, not your strategy. Even if you’re hopeful, continue treating your job search like the next interview could come from anywhere.

Use this approach:

• Prepare for interviews anyway: keep stories and examples ready, since you might get an invitation without much notice.
• Target your next applications: prioritize roles that match your strongest experience and can be explained clearly in a resume screen.
• Document everything: dates and status changes help you send accurate follow-ups and avoid duplicates.
• Stay professional in tone: recruiters respond best to concise, respectful messages.

Remember: “under consideration” is a data point about the hiring process—not a confirmation of outcome. Your best advantage is readiness combined with consistent effort.

Key takeaway: Don’t pause your pipeline—use “under consideration” as a reason to prepare and keep applying, not a reason to stop.

FAQ: Under consideration meaning questions job seekers ask most

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