Top CPA job boards for reaching students, recent grads

The recruitment landscape is evolving with the adoption of cost-effective and targeted strategies like cost-per-application (CPA) job boards. These platforms are particularly valuable for employers seeking to connect with students and recent graduates, as they ensure that payment is made only when a candidate applies, offering a more result-oriented approach.

Globally, very few job boards allow employers to advertise their jobs on a CPA basis, and even fewer specifically target college and university students and recent graduates who are searching for part-time, seasonal, internship, apprenticeship, and other early career job opportunities.

1. College Recruiter:

At the forefront, College Recruiter specializes in entry-level jobs and internships, making it the best platform for targeting students and recent graduates on a CPA basis. Employers only incur costs when they receive applications, ensuring a high return on investment while reaching a relevant audience.

2. AfterCollege:

Focused on recent graduates and students, AfterCollege offers a CPA model that aligns employers’ costs directly with their recruitment results. This site is particularly effective for reaching candidates in specific academic fields.

3. iHipo:

iHipo caters to international high potentials and offers a CPA model for employers seeking global young talent. It’s a great platform for companies looking to attract graduates for international roles or programs.

4. WayUp:

WayUp connects employers with a diverse pool of students and recent graduates. Its CPA model ensures that employers pay for actual applications, making it a cost-effective solution for targeted recruitment campaigns.

5. Internships.com (Chegg Internships):

As a part of Chegg, Internships.com is a leading platform for internship listings and now offers a CPA option. This model is particularly useful for employers seeking interns and entry-level candidates.

6. TalentEgg:

TalentEgg, a Canadian platform, specializes in early career recruitment and offers a CPA model. This ensures that employers targeting Canadian students and graduates pay only for the applications they receive.

7. Handshake:

Handshake partners with educational institutions to connect students with employers. While it traditionally operates on a subscription basis, it offers targeted campaigns that can align with a CPA-like approach.

8. GradTouch:

Based in the UK, GradTouch offers targeted recruitment services and can tailor campaigns on a CPA basis, allowing employers to efficiently reach UK-based graduates and students.

9. Glassdoor:

Known for its employer reviews and job listings, Glassdoor provides targeted advertising options that can be structured around a CPA model, appealing to graduates who prioritize company culture.

10. AngelList:

For startups and tech companies, AngelList offers a platform to connect with tech-savvy graduates. Its targeted approach can align with a CPA model, especially for roles in the tech and startup sector.