How to Submit Proposal on Upwork

Updated on:

April 6, 2026

By:

Use this interactive demo to learn the exact steps for submitting a proposal on Upwork.

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Submitting a proposal on Upwork is a straightforward process, but crafting an effective proposal requires attention to detail. Here's how to submit a proposal step-by-step:

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Click on a job title to view the details.
Select 'Apply now'.
You will be directed to the proposal settings.
You may customize your skills and expertise based on the proposal.
Enter your hourly rate. Upwork will show you how much you'll earn after fees.
Submitting a proposal costs 'Connects'. Ensure the job is worth your effort before spending Connects. Click the 'Send for 7 connects' button to send it to the client.

📌 Why this matters

Submitting proposals effectively opens the door to landing freelance projects and building your client base. Beyond the mechanics of applying, each proposal you send is actually a marketing exercise that shapes your professional reputation on the platform.

Clients often review your proposal history and success rate when evaluating you, so even unsuccessful proposals contribute to your credibility. The Connect system also forces you to be selective, which naturally improves your proposal quality and helps you target jobs that truly match your expertise.

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