Free ATS Resume Templates

Avoid automatic rejections and low system rankings with free ATS resume templates that tick all algorithmic checkboxes. 

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are simpler than you think. They’re like a huge spreadsheet where all candidates are entered. All job submissions are visible to the recruiter (your resume doesn’t go into digital oblivion if you’ve messed things up). Use the following tips to create an  ATS-optimized resume. 

Select an ATS-Compliant Resume Template

Under the hood, an ATS converts all submitted documents into a machine-friendly format. Some tools convert submitted documents and text replies into HTML for easier processing. Since graphical elements like columns, graphs, charts, and icons can’t be effectively converted, your resume isn’t properly processed, showing errors in the system. So, of course, recruiters will first look at properly rendered submissions. 

To avoid such scenarios, grab one of our ATS-friendly resume templates. Each design uses minimal styling and follows an optimal ATS resume format. Speaking of which… 

Verify All Formatting 

ATS parses your resume (and oftentimes cover letter  and LinkedIn profile) to organize the information for the recruiter better. The tool pre-populates required fields like “last employer,” “university degree,” “skills”, etc. It scans your document top-to-bottom: Your name/contact info is at the top, skills at the top/bottom, and employment history in the middle with employer, title, dates, and job description. 

So, if you’re not using a chronological resume format, standard section naming, and clear information layout, the tool wouldn’t know where to put your data and stick it into the wrong place. Again, when the recruiter checks your profile, they’d get frustrated by the errors and move on to the next applicant. 

 Incorporate Keywords 

To filter and rank resumes, ATS uses ‘knock out questions’ — criteria set by the hiring manager. For example, “minimum 18 years” or “valid driver’s license.” If you don’t meet the basic criteria, your submission will be bumped to the end of the list.  

In addition, ATS has a number of filters recruiters can use to search through the application better. These can include “location,” “years of experience,” or specific functional skills like Java programming, food preparation, or conversion rate optimization. These are the keywords you’d want to have on your profile to get a match from the ATS. Typically, you can figure out which criteria the recruiters will use to rank candidates by looking at the candidate requirements section. 

Use Clear Language 

Finally, don’t get too creative with naming your resume sections or describing your work experience. Avoid excessive synonymization or overly poetic descriptions. These may not be well understood for ATS. For example, “alliance builder” can sound edgier, but saying that you’re a “team player” gives you a better scoring potential. 

Are resume templates bad for ATS?

No, not all. While highly graphical, two-column resume designs with special characters and graphical elements won’t be processed by recruitment tools correctly, many other resume designs are compatible with ATS. For example, Freesumes ATS-friendly resume templates. 

Why is my resume getting rejected by ATS?

Your resume may be getting the cold shoulder from ATS for several reasons. One — poor formatting (two-column layout, funky fonts, or even a headshot in the header area). Two — it doesn’t match the job description. Be sure to include keywords from the ‘requirements’ section to get a higher score. 

What font is ATS-friendly?

Standard typefaces like Times New Roman, Arial, Helvetica, Georgia, and Calibri are ATS-friendly. Choose a font that’s supported by popular word processors (Word, Google Doc), and you’ll be fine. But avoid any handwritten, decorative, and monospaced fonts. These don’t play well with ATS. 

Do PDF resumes pass an ATS?

Yes, some ATS can process PDF documents, but Word (.doc/.docx) is a safer format. In some cases, ATS may scan PDF resumes incorrectly (e.g., bottom to the top or in scrambled blocks), leading to lower rankings. You’re less likely to get filtered out if you submit a Word document. 

Does ATS read a two-page resume?

Yes, ATS scans two-page resumes, but that’s usually the limit. Don’t go beyond that, and better yet, try to fit your resume into one page. That’s the golden standard for most positions.