You can delete your Handshake account through your account settings, and the process takes about five minutes

Handshake is a job search platform used by many colleges and universities to connect students with employers. If you no longer want to use it — whether you've graduated, found a job, or straightforward prefer other platforms — you can remove your account entirely. The deletion is permanent, meaning all your profile information, messages, and saved jobs disappear and cannot be recovered.

The steps are straightforward and don't require contacting Handshake support unless something goes wrong. You'll need to log in to your account first, then navigate to your settings to find the deletion option.

Key Takeaways

  • Log into your Handshake account, go to Settings, and select the option to delete your account — you'll find it under Privacy or Account Management depending on when your account was created.
  • Handshake will ask you to confirm the deletion and may ask why you're leaving, but these questions are optional and won't prevent you from deleting.
  • Once you confirm deletion, your account and all associated data are removed permanently within a few days.
  • If you think you might use Handshake again later, consider deactivating instead of deleting, though reactivation is not may provide to restore all your information.

Step-by-step deletion process

Start by opening Handshake in your web browser and logging in with your email and password. On the desktop version, look for your profile icon or initials in the top right corner of the page and click it to open a dropdown menu.

From that menu, select "Settings" or "Account Settings." Once you're in Settings, look for a section labeled "Privacy," "Account," or "Danger Zone" — the exact label varies depending on when your account was created. Within that section, you should see a button or link that says "Delete Account" or "Permanently Delete Account." Click it.

Handshake will show you a confirmation screen that explains deletion is permanent. You may see optional fields asking why you're leaving or requesting feedback. You can skip these if you prefer. Check the box confirming you understand the account cannot be recovered, then click the final confirmation button. Your account will be scheduled for deletion and removed within a few business days.

What happens to your data after deletion

Once deleted, your profile no longer appears in employer searches, and employers cannot message you through Handshake. Any saved jobs, applications, or messages are removed from your account. However, Handshake may retain some information for legal or operational reasons — for example, records of job applications you submitted may be kept in employer databases or for compliance purposes, though they won't be linked to your personal profile.

If you're concerned about what data Handshake stores about you beyond what's visible in your profile, you can request a data report before deleting. This report shows what information the platform has collected. To request it, go to Settings and look for "read Your Data" or "Data Request" — this option may take a few days to process.

Deactivation versus deletion

Handshake offers two options: deactivation and deletion. Deactivation hides your profile from employers and removes you from searches, but your account and data remain on Handshake's servers. You can reactivate a deactivated account by logging back in, and your profile will return to its previous state.

Deletion is permanent and irreversible. If you think you might use Handshake again — for example, if you're taking a break from job searching but may return later — deactivation is the safer choice. However, if you're certain you won't use the platform again and want your data completely removed, deletion is the right option.

If you can't find the delete button

The location of the delete account option has changed over time as Handshake updates its interface. If you log in and cannot find it in Settings, try these steps: first, make sure you're on the desktop version of Handshake, not the mobile app, since the app sometimes has a different layout. Second, look under "Privacy Settings" specifically, as some older accounts have the option there rather than in the main Account Settings.

If you've searched Settings thoroughly and still cannot locate the delete option, contact Handshake support through the Help section of the platform. You'll need to explain that you want to delete your account, and support can either direct you to the correct location or process the deletion for you. Response times vary, but support typically replies within one to two business days.

Before you delete: what to save

If you've used Handshake to explore for jobs or communicate with employers, consider saving important information before deleting. Take screenshots of any job postings you're interested in, copy down contact information for recruiters who reached out to you, and note any feedback employers gave you in messages.

You may also want to read your resume or cover letters if you stored them in Handshake, since they'll be inaccessible after deletion. Some employers may still have copies of documents you submitted through their own systems, but you won't be able to retrieve them through Handshake once your account is gone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover my Handshake account after deleting it?

No. Deletion is permanent and irreversible. If you think you might want to use Handshake again, deactivate your account instead of deleting it. Deactivation hides your profile but keeps your data intact so you can reactivate later.

Will employers still see my applications after I delete my account?

Employers will still have records of applications you submitted through their own systems, but they won't be able to message you through Handshake or view your profile. Your contact information may remain in their hiring systems depending on their data retention practices.

Do I need to delete my account if I'm graduating?

Not necessarily. Many graduates keep their Handshake accounts active for networking or to search for jobs after graduation. You can deactivate instead if you want to step away temporarily, or straightforward stop using the platform without deleting it. Delete only if you're certain you won't need it again.

How long does it take for my account to be fully deleted?

Handshake typically removes your account within a few business days after you confirm deletion. During this time, your profile may still be visible in some places, but you won't be able to log in. Complete removal usually happens by the end of the week.

What if I delete my account but then change my mind?

Once deleted, your account cannot be recovered. You would need to create a new account from scratch. This is why deactivation is a better choice if you're unsure — you can always reactivate a deactivated account, but a deleted account is gone permanently.