Understanding Your Application and Job Status on USAJOBS

Why Do You See a Job Status Instead of an Application Status?

USAJOBS now displays a job status on your application dashboard rather than individual application statuses. This update ensures you receive the most accurate information about your job applications.

When you apply for a job, the hiring agency provides updates on your application (e.g., “application received” or “referred”). To track your application status, click the Track this application link for each application. Hiring agencies may also send email updates regarding your progress.

How to Check Your Application Status

  1. Sign into your USAJOBS profile.
  2. Go to Applications on your Dashboard—the most recently updated applications are displayed at the top.
  3. Review your application list. Each entry highlights the job status.
  4. Click Track this application to see detailed updates in the hiring agency’s application system.
  5. Expand application details by clicking the + icon.

Additionally, you can find and filter applications for easier tracking.

What If the “Track This Application” Link Is Missing?

If the Track this application link is unavailable, contact the agency point of contact listed in the job announcement.

Note: Application statuses are only available if you submit your resume through USAJOBS using the Apply button. USAJOBS cannot track applications submitted via fax, email, mail, or external agency websites.

Understanding Job Status Updates

A job status reflects the stage of the hiring process. Here are common statuses you may encounter:

  • Accepting Applications: The job is open for applications. Apply now.
  • Reviewing Applications: The application window has closed, and the hiring agency is evaluating applicants. To see details, click Track this application.
  • Hiring Complete: The position has been filled.

Note: Some systems may still display “Reviewing Applications” even after the position is filled. Agencies are working to update their systems for accuracy.

  • Job Canceled: The job announcement was withdrawn, and no hiring occurred.
  • Job Closed: The closing date has passed without any applications submitted through USAJOBS or the job did not accept online applications.

Delays for Faxed Documents

If you fax a resume or supporting documents, there might be delays in updating your application status. Contact the hiring agency directly for concerns about faxed submissions.

Retention of Applications

USAJOBS retains applications for 36 months after the job’s closing date. To keep records beyond this period, you can print the announcements or export application details to Excel.

How to Find and Filter Applications

To Filter Applications:

  1. Choose either your Active or Archived list.
  2. Click Find & filter applications.
  3. Select one or more status checkboxes.
  4. View the filtered list of applications.

To Find Specific Applications:

  1. Choose either your Active or Archived list.
  2. Click Find & filter applications.
  3. Enter a job title, agency, or job announcement number in the search field, then click the search icon.
  4. Review the search results.

Questions About Job Status Updates?

USAJOBS relies on the hiring agency to provide status updates. To track progress, use the Track this application link in your profile or reach out to the agency contact listed in the job announcement.

 

How to View and Manage Your Job Applications on USAJOBS

When you sign in to your USAJOBS profile, you’ll find a comprehensive list of your job applications. Every application you create—whether completed, incomplete, or archived—is automatically saved in your profile for easy access.

Active vs. Archived Applications

To streamline your experience, applications are categorized into two groups:

  • Active Applications: These are the applications you’re currently working on or awaiting responses for.
  • Archived Applications: These are applications you want to keep for reference but don’t need cluttering your active list.

By default, you’ll see only the 10 most recent applications, but you can adjust your view to display more.

What’s Included in the Job Application Listing?

Each application listing provides a snapshot of the job details and application status. You can also manage your applications efficiently using the following features:

  1. Sort Applications
    Organize your applications by:

    • Last updated
    • Agency
    • Job title
    • Closing date
    • Job status

  2. Receive Email Notifications
    Stay informed with email reminders for:

    • Jobs you saved or started applying for that will close in three days.
    • Jobs you saved or applied to that have closed.
      Enable notifications by clicking the Notifications icon and selecting your preferred updates.

  3. View Job Announcement Information
    Expand the application listing by clicking the + icon to view details, such as:

    • Position title
    • Hiring agency
    • Job location(s)
    • Closing date
    • Last updated date
    • Work schedule
    • Series and grade
    • Salary range

    If needed, click the Learn more link for complete job announcement details.

Understanding Job and Application Statuses

Every job listing includes a status that reflects its progress in the federal hiring process. These statuses provide clarity on whether:

  • Applications are still being accepted.
  • The agency is reviewing submissions.
  • The position has been filled.
  • The job announcement has been canceled.

Additionally, you’ll see the dates you applied or last updated your application for each job.

How to Complete or Edit Your Application

Your ability to modify an application depends on its status and whether the job is still accepting submissions:

  • Finish My Application: Appears if the application is in progress and hasn’t been submitted.
  • Edit My Application: Available if:
    • The application was marked incomplete or rejected.
    • The job announcement is still open, and you wish to update your information.

How to Archive Applications

Archiving helps declutter your active application list while preserving records for future reference. Use the archive feature to store applications you no longer need to actively monitor. Learn how to archive an application here.

FAQ'S

Login.gov is a secure and private service that allows you to access multiple government programs, benefits, services, and applications online with a single set of login credentials. With one email address and password, you can easily sign in to a variety of federal websites, simplifying your user experience while ensuring robust security.

USAJOBS has adopted login.gov to meet the latest security standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). By incorporating:

  • Two-factor authentication
  • Stronger password protocols

login.gov provides an additional layer of security, safeguarding your USAJOBS profile from potential breaches and unauthorized access.

No, your USAJOBS profile remains unchanged. All your saved jobs, applications, and searches will stay intact. Once your login.gov account is linked to your USAJOBS profile, you’ll simply use your login.gov email, password, and a one-time security code to sign in.

If you don’t already have a login.gov account, follow these steps:

  1. Create a Login.gov Account
    • You only need to do this once.
  2. Use Your USAJOBS Email Address
    • Enter the same email address associated with your USAJOBS profile (primary or secondary) to ensure seamless linking.
  3. Set Up a Secure Password
    • Create a new, strong password.
  4. Choose a Primary Authentication Method
    • Options include text messages, phone calls, an authentication app, a security key, or backup codes. Federal employees may also use their PIV card or CAC.
  5. Set Up a Backup Authentication Method
    • This ensures you can still access your account if your primary method is unavailable (e.g., if you lose your phone).
  6. Complete the Setup Process
    • Once done, return to USAJOBS and verify your profile information for accuracy.

Note: You’ll now use your login.gov credentials, including your two-factor authentication method, every time you log in to USAJOBS.

If you already have an account with login.gov, you don’t need to create another one. Simply use your existing email, password, and authentication method to access USAJOBS.

Selecting the Right Email Address

When setting up your login.gov account, use your primary or secondary email address from USAJOBS to ensure automatic linking. Avoid using shared or work-related email addresses, such as:

  • .gov, .mil, .edu, or other organizational domains

These addresses may become inaccessible if you leave your job, military position, or school, making it difficult to recover your account or reset your password.

Recommendation: Use a personal email account (e.g., Gmail, Outlook) that you’ll always have access to.

If your current USAJOBS email is work-related, change it after you’ve completed the login.gov setup and linked your accounts.

Common Questions

Can I Use a Different Email Address?

Initially, you must use the same email address as your USAJOBS account to link your profile. Once linked, you can update your email address later.

Can I Share My Login.gov Account?

No. Each individual must create their own login.gov account with a personal email address. Shared accounts are no longer supported.

Why Login.gov Makes a Difference

This enhanced sign-in system ensures:

  • Greater security for your personal information
  • Compliance with federal cybersecurity standards
  • A seamless experience across multiple government services

By transitioning to login.gov, USAJOBS is prioritizing your data safety and simplifying the application process.

Scroll to Top