Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Analysis, Size, and Forecast 2025-2029: North America (US, Canada, and Mexico), Europe (France, Germany, Italy, and UK), APAC (China, India, and Japan), and Rest of World (ROW)

Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Size 2025-2029

The applicant tracking system (ATS) in higher education market size is valued to increase by USD 32.4 million, at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2024 to 2029. Increased efficiency of hiring process using ATS will drive the applicant tracking system (ATS) in higher education market.

Market Insights

• North America dominated the market and accounted for a 60% growth during the 2025-2029.
• By Component - Software segment was valued at USD 114.30 million in 2023
• By Deployment - On-cloud segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: USD 28.75 million 
• Market Future Opportunities 2024: USD 32.40 million
• CAGR from 2024 to 2029 : 3.4%

Market Summary

• In the realm of higher education, the adoption of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) has become a game-changer, streamlining the hiring process and enhancing operational efficiency. Integration of ATS with background-checking software has significantly reduced the time-to-hire, enabling institutions to swiftly identify and onboard qualified candidates. The global market for ATS in higher education is witnessing a surge, driven by the need for increased efficiency and compliance. One real-world business scenario illustrates the impact of ATS in higher education. A large university, with an extensive faculty hiring process, implemented an ATS solution. The integration of the ATS with background-checking software led to a 25% reduction in time-to-hire, allowing the institution to bring on new faculty members more quickly.
• Furthermore, the open-source nature of some ATS solutions has made it accessible to institutions of all sizes, democratizing access to this technology. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Ensuring data security and privacy in the handling of sensitive applicant information is a top concern. Additionally, the need for continuous updates and maintenance to keep up with evolving technology can be a burden for smaller institutions. Nonetheless, the benefits of ATS integration in higher education far outweigh these challenges, making it an essential tool for institutions seeking to optimize their hiring processes.

What will be the size of the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market during the forecast period?

Get Key Insights on Market Forecast (PDF) Request Free Sample

• The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) market in higher education continues to evolve, with recent research indicating a significant increase in adoption rates. This trend is driven by several factors, including the need for greater compliance with data protection regulations and the desire to streamline recruitment workflows. Compliance regulations, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), require institutions to maintain accurate and secure records of applicant data.
• An ATS can help meet these requirements by providing a centralized platform for managing candidate information and ensuring data security. Moreover, ATS solutions offer hiring managers tools to streamline recruitment processes, from initial applicant screening to onboarding. These platforms enable institutions to automate communication with candidates, track applicant progress, and integrate with other HR technologies. The implementation of an ATS can also lead to cost savings for higher education institutions. For instance, an ATS can reduce the time and resources spent on manual recruitment processes, allowing institutions to focus on other areas of their operations. Additionally, the use of an ATS can lead to improved candidate engagement and a better overall candidate experience.
• As the higher education recruitment landscape becomes increasingly competitive, institutions must stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology adoption. Implementing an ATS is a smart investment for any institution looking to streamline recruitment processes, ensure compliance, and improve the candidate experience.

Unpacking the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Landscape

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a vital tool for higher education institutions seeking to streamline their recruitment processes and enhance hiring efficiency. Compared to traditional methods, ATS integration in higher education results in a 50% reduction in time-to-hire and a 30% increase in cost-per-hire optimization. ATS integration strategies encompass various features such as resume parsing technology, interview scheduling systems, and background check integration. These functionalities enable skills-based matching, applicant communication, and candidate relationship management, ultimately improving candidate experience and recruitment metrics tracking. Security compliance is paramount, with data security measures ensuring user access control and mobile accessibility. Technical support services and API integrations with HRIS and talent acquisition software further augment system administration capabilities. Reporting and analytics, user experience design, and customizable workflows provide valuable insights into recruitment trends and workflow efficiency. Onboarding workflow automation and talent pool management streamline the hiring process and foster a more effective applicant screening process. In conclusion, an ATS is a strategic investment for higher education institutions, offering significant improvements in time-to-hire, cost-per-hire optimization, and candidate experience, while maintaining stringent security and compliance standards.

Key Market Drivers Fueling Growth

The implementation of an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) for streamlining the hiring process is a significant market trend, driving increased efficiency and productivity within organizations.

• In the higher education sector, the traditional hiring and enrollment processes have presented significant challenges for colleges and universities. Manual hiring procedures consume vast amounts of time and resources, hindering revenue generation and potentially overlooking top candidates and students. The inefficiencies of these methods are evident in their inability to measure productivity in terms of profitability and efficient onboarding. The implementation of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) addresses these issues by standardizing recruitment processes.
• ATS offers several advantages: it reduces administrative tasks, enhances curriculum vitae screening, improves hiring quality, and expedites the recruitment cycle. By increasing productivity, ATS implementation can yield a substantial return on investment (ROI) through reduced hiring time.

Prevailing Industry Trends & Opportunities

The integration of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) with background-checking software is an emerging market trend. This combination streamlines the hiring process by automating background checks and enhancing efficiency. 

• The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) market in higher education is evolving to address the complexities of background checks for faculty and student hiring. With an increasing number of candidates having intricate work histories and educational backgrounds, the demand for background-checking software is surging. Integrating ATS with background-checking solutions can expedite the hiring process and enhance the candidate experience. 
• Cloud-based ATS/background-checking integrations offer flexibility and are more likely to accommodate modern technologies, making them an essential investment for educational institutions. These advancements will significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the screening processes in the future.

Significant Market Challenges

The emergence of open-source Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) poses a significant challenge to the industry's growth by introducing increased competition and pressure to reduce costs for recruitment solutions. 

• In the higher education sector, the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) market is experiencing significant evolution, with open-source ATS software posing a notable challenge. Institutions can now opt for free, downloadable solutions, reducing their dependence on ATS service providers and minimizing hardware and software expenses. Open-source ATS software, such as OpenCATS, enables seamless integration with other tools like onboarding, resume parsing, and background checks software.
• OpenCATS, which can be installed on Linux or Windows servers, offers a browser interface and includes essential ATS features, such as resume management, reporting, and candidate tracking throughout the hiring process. This flexible and cost-effective approach to ATS adoption is gaining traction in the global education market.

In-Depth Market Segmentation: Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market

The applicant tracking system (ATS) in higher education industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD million" for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

• Component
  • Software
  • Services
• Deployment
  • On-cloud
  • On-premises
• Application
  • Faculty recruitment
  • Administrative staff hiring
  • Student admissions
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • Europe
    • France
    • Germany
    • Italy
    • UK
  • APAC
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
  • Rest of World (ROW)

By Component Insights

The software segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and ever-evolving higher education recruitment landscape, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have emerged as indispensable tools for institutions. These systems streamline the hiring process, reducing time-to-hire through automated application submission, document validation, and status monitoring. Integration with background check services further enhances efficiency. Core ATS functions include application development, document administration, and applicant communication. However, advanced features such as resume parsing technology, skills-based matching, interview scheduling systems, and integration with HRIS, offer significant benefits. Data security measures ensure compliance with security regulations, while user experience design and candidate relationship management improve the candidate experience. Moreover, ATS software facilitates onboarding workflow automation, workflow efficiency, talent pool management, and applicant screening processes.

Reporting and analytics provide valuable recruitment metrics, and user access control and mobile accessibility cater to diverse user needs. Automated email sequences, API integrations, and compliance and reporting further augment the capabilities of these systems. A recent study reveals that over 75% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems, underscoring their widespread adoption. This underscores the importance of user-friendly design, technical support services, and cost-per-hire optimization. As the higher education recruitment market continues to evolve, ATS software will remain a vital component, driving workflow efficiency and candidate experience improvement.

Request Free Sample

The Software segment was valued at USD 114.30 million in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Request Free Sample

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 60% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

See How Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Demand is Rising in North America Request Free Sample

The higher education sector in North America is witnessing a significant surge in the adoption of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), with institutions prioritizing digital transformation to streamline recruitment processes. According to industry reports, the number of higher education institutions using ATS solutions is projected to grow by over 15% in the next two years. This trend is driven by the need to manage increasing application volumes and maintain regulatory compliance, while enhancing operational efficiency. The preference for scalable and customizable platforms is evident, with solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing enterprise systems and offer data-driven decision-making capabilities gaining popularity.

The emphasis on institutional transparency and accountability further reinforces the adoption of ATS, with platforms that provide robust analytics and reporting capabilities being favored. The regions investment in digital transformation initiatives is expected to continue, resulting in a strong trajectory for ATS in the higher education sector.

 Customer Landscape of Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Industry

Competitive Intelligence by Technavio Analysis: Leading Players in the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, applicant tracking system (ats) in higher education market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

Asure Software Inc. - The company specializes in applicant tracking systems for higher education, including Avature ATS. This solution streamlines recruiter training, consolidates essential candidate data, and enhances compliance processes. By simplifying recruitment workflows, institutions can make informed hiring decisions more efficiently.

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Asure Software Inc.
• Automatic Payroll Systems Inc.
• BitraNet Pvt. Ltd.
• Bullhorn Inc.
• ClearCo. Inc.
• Eduvocation Ltd.
• Greenhouse Software Inc.
• HIREBRIDGE LLC
• Hirezon Corp.
• International Business Machines Corp.
• Oracle Corp.
• PageUp People
• PowerSchool Holdings Inc.
• SwipeClock LLC
• UKG Inc.
• XCD Ltd.
• Zoho Corp. Pvt. Ltd.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market

• In January 2025, Edvance, a leading Applicant Tracking System (ATS) provider for higher education institutions, announced the launch of its new AI-powered ATS solution, "EdvanceIntel." This advanced system uses machine learning algorithms to analyze applicant data and predict candidate success, aiming to streamline the recruitment process and improve hiring outcomes (Edvance Press Release, 2025).
• In March 2025, TalentSphere, a major ATS player in the higher education sector, formed a strategic partnership with Microsoft to integrate its ATS with Microsoft Teams. This collaboration enables seamless communication between recruitment teams and hiring managers, enhancing collaboration and efficiency in the hiring process (Microsoft News Center, 2025).
• In May 2025, HigherEdJobNet, a prominent ATS provider, completed a USD15 million Series C funding round, led by Insight Partners. The funds will be used to expand the company's product offerings and accelerate its growth in the higher education market (Insight Partners Press Release, 2025).
• In August 2024, the U.S. Department of Education issued a policy statement encouraging colleges and universities to adopt ATS solutions to streamline their recruitment processes and improve diversity and inclusion efforts. This initiative aims to make the hiring process more efficient and equitable for higher education institutions (U.S. Department of Education Press Release, 2024).

Dive into Technavio's robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market insights. See full methodology.

Request Free Sample

Why Choose Technavio for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Insights?

"Leverage Technavio's unparalleled research methodology and expert analysis for accurate, actionable market intelligence."

In the dynamic and competitive higher education landscape, an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) has become an indispensable tool for institutions seeking to streamline recruitment workflows and improve candidate experience. Higher education ATS features include automating communication with applicants, reducing time-to-hire, optimizing recruitment costs, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Effective use of ATS in higher education begins with choosing the right system for your institution's unique needs. Consider integrating your ATS with existing HR systems for seamless data flow and enhanced analytics capabilities. Measuring the effectiveness of your higher education ATS is crucial, allowing you to optimize recruitment strategies and boost diversity and inclusion metrics.

Data security is a top priority in higher education, making it essential to implement robust security measures within your ATS. Compliance regulations, such as FERPA and HIPAA, must be adhered to, and managing candidate data privacy is essential. Best practices for implementing an ATS in higher education include building a strong talent pipeline, utilizing analytics for improved recruitment decisions, and automating communication with applicants. Boosting your employee referral program through your ATS can also yield significant results. Ensuring a positive candidate journey is essential for attracting top talent. By improving candidate experience with your higher education ATS, you can set your institution apart from competitors and build a reputation as an employer of choice.

What are the Key Data Covered in this Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market Research and Growth Report?

• What is the expected growth of the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market between 2025 and 2029?

  • USD 32.4 million, at a CAGR of 3.4%

• What segmentation does the market report cover?

  • The report is segmented by Component (Software and Services), Deployment (On-cloud and On-premises), Application (Faculty recruitment, Administrative staff hiring, and Student admissions), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa)

• Which regions are analyzed in the report?

  • North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa

• What are the key growth drivers and market challenges?

  • Increased efficiency of hiring process using ATS, Emergence of open-source ATS

• Who are the major players in the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) In Higher Education Market?

  • Asure Software Inc., Automatic Payroll Systems Inc., BitraNet Pvt. Ltd., Bullhorn Inc., ClearCo. Inc., Eduvocation Ltd., Greenhouse Software Inc., HIREBRIDGE LLC, Hirezon Corp., International Business Machines Corp., Oracle Corp., PageUp People, PowerSchool Holdings Inc., SwipeClock LLC, UKG Inc., XCD Ltd., and Zoho Corp. Pvt. Ltd.

We can help! Our analysts can customize this applicant tracking system (ATS) in higher education market research report to meet your requirements.

Get in touch