Applications Closing Early? Be One Step Ahead!

Imagine you’ve just found your dream job on Higherin only to realise that the deadline to submit your application is fast approaching.

One week later, your research is complete. You have carefully prepared and put your heart and soul into your work. However, when you go to access the application page, you are disappointed to see that the deadline has closed early.

Sound familiar? You are not alone.

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Why do employers close their applications early? How to not miss out

Why do employers close their applications early?

A lot of students use the deadline date to prioritise their workload and make sure they get their applications in on time. But we’re here to tell you that more and more employers are now closing their applications before their advertised deadline. But why?

1. Volume of applications

The general feedback from employers has been that they are seeing an overwhelming number of applications sooner than initially expected. Their teams are not equipped to manage that many applicants.

By closing the application date early, they can screen the applications they have already received, instead of encouraging students to continue applying.

2. High-quality candidates

Many employers screen and process applications before the deadline.

If they have enough high-quality candidates to invite to assessment centres, they are more likely to close applications early because they have found the quality they need to fill their roles.

Over the last year, we estimated that around 20% of employers who advertised on Higherin closed their applications early.

If an employer has chosen to do this, not only does each applicant now face significant competition, but they also have the added pressure to submit their application as soon as possible.

How to not miss out

Register your interest: By using the ‘Register Your Interest’ feature on our website, you will be emailed as soon as applications open for your desired role or employer.
Start ASAP: Prepare early and get your application in as far before the deadline as you can, so that you can avoid disappointment in securing your dream role.
Search: When searching for a job on Higherin, default your search by ‘job deadlines’, so you know which ones to prioritise first.
Upskilling: Find ways to build up your CV and cover letter through work experience. This will arm you with all the soft skills you need to seek and secure placements, internships, graduate schemes and apprenticeships.
Focus: Try to limit your applications to a maximum of 5 at each time.

"This is the best way to ensure you have enough time to tailor your application to each role and conduct enough research without getting too overwhelmed.”

Gemma Hunt, Early Careers Leader from GE Aviation