This article explains how the approval process is managed, how schools make their decisions, and what to expect once your request has been reviewed.
How schools review employer requests
When your company requests to connect with a school or posts a job, the request is sent to that school for review. Each school evaluates connection and job requests according to its own recruiting policies and criteria.
While every school’s process is unique, approvals are typically based on factors such as:
The types of jobs your company posts
Your company’s recruiting history or prior relationship with the school
The completeness and legitimacy of your employer profile
Your request will remain in pending status until the school takes action. Most schools review requests within 1–5 business days, but timelines vary by school.
To view and understand your connection request status, refer to Understanding Your School Connection Status.
Approval notifications
Once a school reviews your request, you will receive a notification in Handshake about the outcome:
If the school approves your company or job posting, you will receive a notification in Handshake.
If the school declines your request, you will receive both a notification in Handshake and an email notification.
After your company is approved
When a school approves your connection request, you can begin recruiting with that school.
Approval may grant your company additional permissions, such as the ability to:
Post work-study jobs
Post events
Post interview schedules
To learn how to view your granted permissions, refer to Checking Your Permissions with a School.
If your request is declined
If a school declines your request, the decision is based on its internal approval criteria and recruiting standards.
Note: Handshake cannot modify or override a school’s decision.
If your request was declined:
Review your employer profile and job postings to ensure they’re complete and transparent.
Confirm that your job opportunities align with the school’s recruiting policies.
Consider contacting the school’s Career Services department to learn more about its approval criteria.
For guidance on improving your company’s chances of approval, refer to How Can I Get Approved By Schools?.