Rejected but role still open

This status usually means the employer decided not to proceed with your candidacy while continuing to source for the role.

Last updated: 2026-02-22

Also seen as: rejected role still open, rejected but posting open

Definition

Rejected but role still open usually means your application was closed, but the requisition remains active for other candidates.

What’s usually happening behind the scenes

Teams may be seeking a different profile match, level fit, or availability than current applicants.

Why it stays in this status

Open postings can remain live until a final hire is confirmed.

How long it usually lasts

It often remains open for weeks while sourcing continues.

What usually doesn’t help

Assuming a live posting automatically means your profile will be reopened usually does not match system behavior.

When action might make sense

If no timeline was shared, a concise follow-up is often reasonable after about one to two weeks. If a timeline was shared, following up after that window is often reasonable while continuing other active applications.

Related statuses

• Hiring freeze / role paused
• Internal candidate selected
• Moved to another requisition
• Not selected but “in process”

Disclaimer

This page is general informational guidance and may not reflect every employer process or system behavior.