Guide · one platform
How to get a job on Handshake AI, step by step
By Alex. First published 2026-10-18. Sources checked 2026-10-18.
The Handshake AI Fellowship application puts your background into consideration for projects. The useful next milestone is a project invitation with its requirements and terms.
This guide follows Handshake AI's published instructions, checked on 18 October 2026. It is a documentation-based walkthrough.
1. Check eligibility and use the AI application route
Check the current opportunity's location, experience and work-authorization requirements. Open the Fellowship application or AI Work in your existing Handshake account.
Handshake: apply to the AI Fellowship →Handshake AI's platform profile and opportunity links →
2. Complete your profile
New users can skip connecting a school. That option does not establish eligibility for every project. Verify your phone, answer the work-authorization questions, add your expertise and upload a PDF resume no larger than 50 MB. Read the agreements before accepting them.
3. Express interest in suitable opportunities
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Handshake says to submit interest forms for relevant opportunities in the dashboard. Your profile is also considered for matching roles.
Handshake: project matching and next steps after applying →
4. Allow for project-specific selection
Some projects add evaluations, training exercises or a portfolio review. The next-steps page gives no single interview length or selection deadline. Placement depends on project demand and fit, and silence does not necessarily mean rejection.
5. Finish verification and payout setup before work
Identity verification and payout setup are required before project work. You can complete them while waiting for a match. Once invited, review the actual project details and any remaining steps.
Before spending time on an additional exercise, check its expected duration and payment terms. Keep an application record so you can see which stage is complete and which still needs confirmation.
Check Handshake's application and verification requirements →Check the commitment before an additional assessment →
Handshake AI can change these steps. Follow the instructions in your account. If something differs from this guide, use Ask Alex or email contact@aipaylist.com so we can check and update it.
Common questions
- Must I connect a school to apply?
- The application allows you to skip school connection. Individual opportunity requirements still apply.
- Is there one standard Handshake AI interview?
- The documented route has project-specific evaluations. Follow your invitation for format and timing.
- Does submitting the application guarantee a project?
- No. Handshake matches applicants to project needs, and invitation timing varies.