Resource Guide

How to Get Approved by Ad Networks: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Increase your ad network approval rates with proven strategies. Learn what networks look for and how to prepare your site for success.

17 recommended ad networks 4 min read ad network approval tips, get approved by ad networks

Getting rejected by ad networks can feel discouraging, especially when you've spent months building your website and creating content. Many small publishers face multiple rejections before understanding what networks actually look for during their review process.

The approval process isn't mysterious - networks have specific criteria they evaluate and most rejections stem from easily fixable issues. Whether you're applying to premium networks or smaller platforms, the fundamentals remain consistent across the industry.

This guide breaks down exactly what ad networks evaluate, how to prepare your site for approval and proven strategies that increase your acceptance rate. Use our "Fast approval" filter to find networks with streamlined processes while you optimize your site for premium platforms.

Essential Website Requirements Before Applying

Networks evaluate these fundamental criteria during review:

  • Complete website structure - Functional navigation, contact page, about page and privacy policy
  • Substantial content volume - Minimum 20-30 pages of original, valuable content
  • Regular publishing schedule - Evidence of ongoing content creation, not abandoned sites
  • Professional design - Clean, mobile-responsive layout that builds user trust
  • Fast loading speeds - Page speed under 3 seconds for good user experience
  • Working contact forms - Networks need to verify site ownership and communicate with publishers
  • Clear content focus - Sites with defined niches typically approval faster than broad, unfocused content

Use our "No minimum traffic" filter to find networks that prioritize site quality over traffic volume.

Content Quality Standards Networks Expect

High-quality content significantly improves approval odds:

  • Original writing - No copied, spun or heavily paraphrased content from other sources
  • Proper grammar and spelling - Professional presentation matters for advertiser confidence
  • In-depth articles - Posts over 500 words generally perform better than short updates
  • Regular updates - Fresh content shows active site management
  • Valuable information - Content that solves problems or provides genuine value to readers
  • Proper categorization - Well-organized content structure helps networks understand your audience
  • Image optimization - Original or properly licensed images with appropriate alt text

Networks in our "High-quality ads" category typically have stricter content standards but offer better advertiser relationships.

Technical setup affects approval success more than many publishers realize:

  • Privacy policy - Must cover data collection, cookies and third-party advertising (required by most networks)
  • Terms of service - Protect your site and demonstrate professionalism
  • SSL certificate - HTTPS is now standard and expected by all reputable networks
  • Mobile optimization - Responsive design is essential given mobile traffic dominance
  • Analytics setup - Google Analytics or similar tracking demonstrates data-driven site management
  • Social media presence - Active profiles add credibility and show audience engagement
  • Contact information - Real contact details build trust with network review teams

Browse our "GDPR compliant" filter for networks that prioritize data protection and legal compliance.

Application Strategy and Timing

Strategic application approach improves success rates:

  • Apply to easier networks first - Build monetization track record before premium platforms
  • Wait for traffic consistency - Apply when you have 30+ days of steady visitor data
  • Complete all application fields - Partial applications often get automatic rejections
  • Use professional email addresses - Avoid Gmail for business communications when possible
  • Follow up appropriately - Wait 7-14 days before polite inquiry about application status
  • Learn from rejections - Most networks provide specific feedback for improvement
  • Reapply strategically - Wait 30-60 days after addressing rejection reasons

Our "Easy setup" filter shows networks with simplified application processes perfect for building your approval track record.

Key Takeaway

Getting approved by ad networks becomes much easier when you understand their evaluation criteria and prepare accordingly. Focus on creating a professional, content-rich website with proper legal pages and technical setup. Start with networks from our "Fast approval" category to build momentum, then apply to premium platforms once you've established a monetization track record.