Jobs: Apply Externally

Some employers may choose to collect applications in their internal tracking system rather than Handshake. If this is the case, the job posting will have a red button to Apply Externally. 

To submit an application externally, follow the process outlined below. 

Part 1

On the job's details page, click Apply Externally to start your application.

Important: you'll have to submit the application on the external site in order to fully apply for the position! 

Part 2

If a popup appears in Handshake, after clicking Apply Externally, this indicates the employer has added an additional step in the application process. If no popup appears in Handshake, proceed to the external site and follow the instructions under Part 3.  

Within the popup, there are 3 possible actions that may be required for Step 1. These options are detailed below: 

• Step 1: Review Employer Instructions
  • "Additional Instructions: COMPANY NAME has provided the following instructions for applying externally:"
    • CUSTOM MESSAGE FROM EMPLOYER

• Step 1: Submit Documents on Handshake
  • Details on required Document(s) are provided in this space. Select your document via one of the following:
    • Click the dropdown menu to select from all uploaded documents.
    • Click the blue button Upload New to choose a new file from your computer.
    • Click on the name of one of the two most recent document uploads to your account, displayed below "Recently Added".

• Step 1: Complete Pre-Application Questions
  • CUSTOM QUESTIONS FROM EMPLOYER (if questions are listed, enter your responses in the provided text field on the popup)

Once completed, click the green button Step 2: External Application, and proceed with Part 3.

Part 3

A new browser window or tab will open with the designated application link. You'll need to follow the instructions on this site in order to fully submit your application. 

For any questions related to this application, you'll need to reach out to the employer directly, as Handshake does not have access to the external site.

Troubleshooting Tip: if the link does not open, check if your browser has a popup blocker enabled. If so, allow popups from the site, then try again by clicking the blue link External Application, which appears in place of the Apply Externally button (as shown in Part 4). 

Part 4

When you return to Handshake, the job posting will automatically be added to the "My Jobs" section (accessible from the Account Icon menu), with the application status of Pending. However, since Handshake cannot track your activity on the external site, you'll need to confirm if you finished your application. 

The job posting will prompt you to answer "Did you finish your application?" - Click the gray button for YES / NO as appropriate. 

• If No, the red button Apply Externally will reappear on the posting, and the job will be removed from "My Jobs" / re-added to the Jobs list. 
• If Yes, the text will change to "Application Submitted".

To withdraw an application that has been submitted externally, refer to Withdraw an Application in Handshake.