Requesting Feedback After a Job, Internship, or Graduate School Rejection
Getting a rejection email after an interview can feel discouraging, but it’s actually a very normal (and expected) part of the job, internship, and even graduate school application process. Employers and programs often receive hundreds of applications, and sometimes the final decision comes down to experience level, fit, or simply timing. Remember: rejection doesn’t mean you failed—it can be a chance to pause for reflection and then move toward redirection, guiding you to opportunities that may be an even better fit.
Requesting Feedback – Rejection to Reflection:
Even if the message feels automated, it’s a good idea to reply to a rejection email. A short, professional thank-you leaves a positive impression, shows maturity, and can set you apart for future opportunities. In rare cases, following up has even led to unexpected second chances (one alum shared that her polite reply uncovered an error in the process—she ended up getting the job!). While that won’t always happen, responding always demonstrates professionalism.
A helpful next step after receiving a rejection is to respectfully ask for feedback on your interview. Not every recruiter or program can provide it (sometimes due to legal or time constraints), but when they do, it can give you meaningful insight into your strengths and areas for growth. Even hearing that you performed well, but another candidate had more experience, can provide helpful closure.
If you’d like to ask for feedback, keep your email short, professional, and appreciative. First, thank the employer for the opportunity. Then, politely ask if they’d be willing to share any feedback on your interview to help you improve for the future.
Here are two great resources with templates and tips you can adapt:
Receiving a rejection from a graduate school program can be tough, especially after all the hard work you put into your application. While it’s disappointing, it’s also an opportunity to learn and improve for the next application cycle. One of the best ways to do this is by reaching out to the admissions committee and politely asking for feedback on your application. Here are some tips to help you craft a thoughtful and respectful email that can provide you with valuable insights for your future applications:
- Express Gratitude: Start by thanking the admissions committee for taking the time to review your application and for the opportunity to apply.
- Request for Feedback: Politely ask if they could provide any feedback on your application, particularly on areas that could be improved for a future application cycle.
- Show Continued Interest: Express your strong interest in the program and your commitment to reapplying in the future, highlighting that you are eager to strengthen your application based on their feedback.
- Acknowledge the Decision: Respectfully acknowledge the decision, understanding that the admissions process is highly competitive and that many qualified candidates apply.
- Specific Areas of Improvement: Ask if there are particular aspects of your application, such as academic credentials, research experience, personal statement, or other qualifications, that you could enhance for future consideration.
- Offer Flexibility: Let them know you’re open to receiving feedback via email or through a brief meeting, depending on what’s more convenient for them.
Remember, requesting feedback is a great way to show your dedication and willingness to grow. If you need further support in crafting your email or preparing for your next application, consider making an appointment with a career consultant through your Handshake account. They’re here to help you every step of the way.
Career Support & Sources:
Key Takeaways
- Always respond: A polite thank-you note leaves the door open.
- Feedback is optional: Sometimes you’ll receive it, sometimes you won’t, and that’s okay.
- Stay positive: Use rejection as a chance to reflect, learn, and move forward stronger.
And remember, you don’t have to write these emails alone! Our office is happy to help you draft or proofread your message so you feel confident in your reply.
| Reminder | What This Means for You |
|---|---|
| Use Multiple Sources | Information about careers and education can vary depending on where you look. Try checking several websites and resources when researching anything related to your career development (for example: job outlooks, salaries, industry trends, graduate programs, or fellowships, etc.). This will help you get a fuller, more accurate picture of what employers or admissions committees are looking for. |
| Make Sure to Network | Talking directly with people associated with your career goals or the programs/companies you’re interested in can give you the clearest and most useful insights. Reach out to professionals, recruiters, alumni, or current students to learn what really matters in your field (for example: company expectations, hiring timelines, résumé preferences, graduate program requirements, etc.). Even within the same industry or graduate program type, different organizations and admissions committees may value things differently. Listening carefully to their guidance can help you put your best foot forward. |
| Use AI Ethically in Career Development | AI tools can be a great resource for brainstorming, polishing materials, or practicing interview questions (for example: outlining position description details to guide your documents, generating practice questions, etc.). But it works best when you use it thoughtfully and make sure the final work reflects your own skills and voice. Some employers and graduate programs may not allow AI, so always check instructions carefully. Think of AI as a helper, not a replacement—and remember, Career Consultants are happy to guide you on how to use it effectively! |
| Be Aware of Employment Scams | When searching for jobs or internships, it’s important to stay alert for potential scams—especially when exploring positions outside of Binghamton’s Handshake. Common warning signs include requests for personal or financial information upfront, job offers without interviews, or anything that seems “too good to be true.” To learn more about what to watch for, see real examples, and find out how to protect yourself or respond if you encounter a scam, check out Employment Scam Information – Binghamton University. Staying informed helps you pursue opportunities safely and confidently. |
Drop-ins: When classes are in session, Monday-Friday, from 12-4 p.m., you can visit our office to schedule a 20-minute drop-in with our staff.
Appointments: You can schedule your 30-minute career session on Handshake. These are offered all year and can be done virtually and in person.
Online Resources: Visit uConnect, our virtual career center that is always accessible to support your career needs.
Picture Source: Unknown
Website Sources: Special thanks to the organizations, industry experts, and thought leaders who share valuable career resources, research, and articles with the public. Your work provides important insights that support students’ career development.
- How to Ask for Feedback After an Interview (Samples Included!) by Manoela Caldas (see Manoela’s author profile here)
- How To Respond to a Job Rejection Email (With Examples) by Jamie Birt (see Jamie’s author profile here)
AI Assistance: Portions of this resource may have been developed with support from AI tools (such as ChatGPT by OpenAI or Gemini), used to help synthesize research, generate summaries, and refine formatting. All final content has been reviewed and customized for Binghamton University students.
