If you receive a message stating that your account is deactivated or blocked when logging into Handshake, this means your school has taken action on your account.
Deactivated accounts
If your school deactivates (archives) your Handshake account, you can still access Handshake even though your school no longer manages your account. Instead of losing access, you’ll continue using the platform as an unaffiliated user.
What unaffiliated access means for you
- You can still sign in and use Handshake, even though your school has archived your account.
When you sign in, you’ll land on the School Connections page, where you can check your school connection and request to reconnect if that option is available (for example, if you return for another program).
- Your school will still appear in the Education section of your profile, but it won’t show that you’re currently enrolled.
- The main change is that you won’t have access to your school’s career center features in Handshake (like appointments), and your school won’t be able to view or manage your account.
Note: You may be prompted to add a personal (non-school) email address when you sign in. This helps to ensure you can continue using your Handshake account if you lose access to your school email.
Blocked accounts
If your account has been blocked, you will receive a message stating "Account Blocked".
Common reasons your account may be blocked:
- Late tuition payments or other payments
- Misuse of Handshake
- Student misconduct (not showing up for an on-campus interview, for example)
If your account is blocked, contact support for more information.