Application Completion Rate refers to the percentage of individuals who fully complete an application process out of those who began it. It is a key metric used to assess the effectiveness and user-friendliness of an application process, whether it's for job applications, online forms, surveys, or software onboarding.

What is Application Completion Rate?

Application Completion Rate is a metric that measures the percentage of users or candidates who fully complete a specific application process compared to the total number who started it. It is commonly used in contexts such as job applications, online forms, or software onboarding processes.

To calculate it, use the formula:

Application Completion Rate= (Number of Completed Applications/ Number of Started Applications) ×100

A high completion rate indicates that the application process is user-friendly and engaging, while a low rate might suggest issues such as complexity, technical problems, or lack of motivation among applicants.

Streamline HR operations effortlessly with the best HR software solution

Get Free Demo

Application Completion Rate Calculation

To calculate the Application Completion Rate, follow these steps:

Determine the Number of Completed Applications: This is the count of users or candidates who have successfully finished the application process.
Determine the Number of Started Applications: This is the count of users or candidates who began the application process, regardless of whether they completed it.
Use the Formula:
Application Completion Rate= (Number of Completed Applications / Number of Started Applications) ×100

Example Calculation:

Suppose 200 users started an online application process.
Out of these, 150 users completed the application.

Using the formula:
Application Completion Rate= (150/200)×100=75%

So, the application completion rate is 75%, meaning 75% of those who started the application process completed it.

Average Application Completion Rate

The average application completion rate varies widely depending on the context, industry, and complexity of the application process. Here are some general benchmarks:

Job Applications: Typically, application completion rates for job applications range from 40% to 60%. This can vary based on the length of the application and the ease of use.
Online Forms and Surveys: For online forms and surveys, completion rates often range from 50% to 80%. Simpler forms tend to have higher completion rates, while lengthy or complex ones may see lower rates.
E-commerce Checkout Processes: In e-commerce, the average completion rate for checkout processes can vary but often ranges between 60% and 80%. Factors like ease of use, payment options, and trust signals affect these rates.
Software Onboarding: In SaaS and tech industries, onboarding completion rates generally range from 40% to 70%, depending on the complexity of the software and the support provided.

Higher completion rates often indicate a well-designed and user-friendly process, while lower rates may suggest potential issues with user experience or process complexity.

Factors Influencing the Application Completion Rate

Several factors can influence the application completion rate:

Complexity of the Application: Lengthy or complicated applications can deter users. Simplifying and streamlining the process often improves completion rates.
User Experience (UX): An intuitive, user-friendly interface enhances the likelihood of completion. Poor navigation, confusing instructions, or technical issues can lead to higher drop-off rates.
Technical Issues: Problems such as slow loading times, errors, or incompatibility with devices or browsers can frustrate users and cause them to abandon the process.
Clarity of Instructions: Clear, concise instructions and prompts can guide users effectively through the application process, reducing confusion and increasing completion rates.
Motivation and Incentives: Offering incentives, such as rewards, discounts, or benefits, can encourage users to complete the application.
Relevance and Personalization: Tailoring the application to the user’s needs and preferences can make the process more engaging and relevant, leading to higher completion rates.
Application Timing: Timing can affect completion rates. For instance, applications that are requested at inconvenient times or during peak periods may have lower completion rates.
Accessibility: Ensuring that the application is accessible to users with disabilities, such as providing screen reader compatibility or alternative text, can improve completion rates.
Trust and Security: Clear communication about data privacy and security can reassure users, making them more likely to complete the application process.
Follow-up and Reminders: Sending reminders or follow-up communications can encourage users to return and complete the application if they started but did not finish.