When navigating the modern job market, candidates frequently encounter the application status “Under Review” within an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This brief, often ambiguous phrase marks a common stage in the hiring pipeline after the initial submission. For job seekers, this status can be a source of uncertainty about their chances of moving forward. Understanding what this designation technically signifies and who is involved in the process helps manage expectations. This exploration aims to explain the meaning behind this status and provide guidance on managing the wait.
Deconstructing the “Under Review” Status
The shift from “Application Received” or “Submitted” to “Under Review” represents a mechanical progression within the Applicant Tracking System. Technically, this status indicates the application has successfully passed the preliminary automated screening phase. This initial stage often involves checks for basic completeness, required documents, and the presence of specific keywords aligned with the job description. This status change signifies the application has moved into a queue designated for human review. It confirms the system has deemed the application viable enough not to be immediately disqualified by automated filters, meaning the application is now in contention and ready for the next level of scrutiny.
Who is Reviewing Your Application?
The status “Under Review” is dynamic, with its specific meaning changing based on which layer of the hiring process is currently assessing the application. This process is typically a multi-stage funnel, beginning with technology and escalating to specialized human reviewers. The successful progression through these stages ultimately determines the depth of the evaluation and the likelihood of a candidate advancing.
Automated Screening Systems
The first stage of review is conducted by the Applicant Tracking System itself, utilizing algorithms to scan and rank submissions. These systems primarily look for quantifiable data points, such as years of experience and specific software proficiencies, by matching them against the job description. If the status changes to “Under Review” while the ATS is processing, it means the application survived the automated culling process and met the minimum algorithmic threshold.
Recruiter or HR Review
Once the application passes the automated screening, it moves to a recruiter or Human Resources professional for the first human assessment. The recruiter’s goal is to verify basic qualifications, cross-reference salary expectations, and evaluate the potential for cultural fit within the organization. They perform a high-level review of the resume and cover letter, often checking for red flags or inconsistencies not caught by the automated system.
Hiring Manager Review
The final and most selective stage of the review involves the hiring manager, the individual who will directly supervise the role. At this point, the application is assessed for specific team fit and the technical depth of the candidate’s skills. The hiring manager looks beyond minimum qualifications to determine how a candidate’s unique expertise will contribute to the team’s current projects.
Is “Under Review” a Good or Neutral Sign?
The status “Under Review” is best characterized as a neutral sign regarding the ultimate outcome of the application process. While it provides no guarantee of an interview or job offer, it signifies a positive advancement compared to “Application Received” or an outright rejection. Moving to this stage means the application has passed the initial, high-volume screening and is now part of the much smaller, vetted pool of candidates being actively considered. If an application moves from “Submitted” to “Under Review” within hours or a single day, it suggests the company is actively and quickly reviewing submissions. Conversely, when the application sits “Under Review” for several weeks without progression, the status reverts to being purely neutral, often meaning the application is waiting in a queue behind other candidates who may be further along in the process.
Realistic Timelines for the Review Process
The duration of the “Under Review” phase extends anywhere from a few business days to several weeks, depending on internal organizational factors. There is no industry standard for this timeframe, and an application’s movement is dictated by the internal pace of the hiring team, requiring candidates to prepare for a prolonged waiting period. Company size and structure influence the speed of the review process. Large corporations often employ structured batching processes, where applications are collected over a period before being reviewed all at once, leading to longer initial waits. If the company is actively interviewing a strong slate of candidates, a newly submitted application may be held in the “Under Review” status for weeks until those initial interviews conclude.
Actionable Steps While You Wait
Maintaining momentum in the overall job search is the most productive approach while an application is designated as “Under Review.” Candidates should continue to apply for other roles and treat the current application as one possibility among many. The waiting period is an ideal time for proactive interview preparation specific to the role and company. This involves conducting in-depth research on the organization’s recent projects, leadership, and stated values, and practicing answers to common behavioral questions using frameworks like the STAR method. A professional follow-up can be appropriate after two weeks, sent directly to the recruiter or HR contact, expressing continued interest and asking for a general update on the hiring timeline.