107 views||Release time: Sep 10, 2025
Waiting for a decision after you’ve submitted something important—be it a job application, a manuscript for a scientific journal, or a visa application—can be a nerve-wracking experience. The most common status you'll encounter during this period is "Under Review." But what does this status actually mean, and more importantly, how long does it typically last?
The truth is, the duration of the "Under Review" status varies dramatically depending on the context. In this guide, we'll break down the average timelines for the most common scenarios to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
When you submit a resume or CV for a job, the "Under Review" status signifies that your application has passed the initial automated screening and is now being looked at by human eyes, typically a recruiter or a hiring manager.
Average Time: 1 to 4 weeks.
Shortest Time: A few days. This can happen if you're a strong candidate for a position that the company is looking to fill urgently.
Longest Time: Over a month. Several factors can extend this period, including a high volume of applicants, internal restructuring, the holiday season, or the need for multiple departments to review your profile.
What to Do: If you haven't heard back within a couple of weeks, it's generally acceptable to send a polite follow-up email to the recruiter or hiring manager to reiterate your interest in the role.
For academics and researchers, "Under Review" means your manuscript has been sent to external experts (peers) for evaluation before it can be considered for publication in a journal. This is one of the most lengthy and unpredictable review processes.
Average Time: 3 to 6 months.
Shortest Time: 1 to 2 months. This is rare and usually only happens with journals that have a very efficient editorial process or for papers in rapidly evolving fields.
Longest Time: Over a year. Delays are common in academia. It can be difficult to find suitable and available reviewers. Sometimes, a reviewer might back out, forcing the editor to start the search all over again. The complexity of the paper and the number of revision rounds required can also significantly extend the timeline.
What to Do: Most journal submission systems provide updates. If the status hasn't changed for over three months, you can consider sending a polite inquiry to the journal's editorial office.
When your visa or immigration application status changes to "Under Review" or "In Process," it means an immigration officer is actively assessing your documents and eligibility.
Average Time: This is highly variable and depends on the country, the type of visa, and the specific embassy or consulate. It can range from a few weeks for a tourist visa to several months or even years for complex immigration cases.
Factors Influencing Delay: The volume of applications, security checks, requests for additional information (RFE), and government policy changes can all impact the processing time.
What to Do: Government websites usually provide estimated processing times. It is crucial to be patient and avoid contacting them unless your application has significantly exceeded the standard timeframe. Ensure you respond promptly and thoroughly to any requests for more information.
Regardless of the context, several common factors can influence the duration of the "Under Review" period:
Volume: A high number of other applicants or submissions.
Complexity: The specific requirements of the role, the depth of the research paper, or the intricacies of a legal application.
Human Element: The availability and schedule of the reviewers, hiring managers, or officials.
Process Steps: Multi-stage review processes involving different people or departments.
External Factors: Holidays, weekends, and unforeseen events can all cause delays.
While the "Under Review" status can feel like a black box, understanding the typical timelines and the factors behind them can help manage your expectations and reduce anxiety during the wait.
