"Ensure your resume beats ATS systems and gets past initial screening — in just 30 seconds."
Free ATS Resume Checker
Beat Applicant Tracking Systems
Before You Apply
Discover if your resume passes ATS screening before you apply. Get instant compatibility scores, identify formatting issues, and optimize for success.
No credit card required · 14-day free trial · Results in under 30 seconds
What Is an ATS Resume Checker?
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume checker is a tool that simulates how applicant tracking software will parse and score your resume. ATS systems are used by 90%+ of large companies to screen resumes before a human recruiter ever sees them. Our checker analyzes your CV for ATS compatibility, identifies potential parsing issues, and provides specific optimization recommendations.
📊 ATS Compatibility Analysis
Check how well your resume's format and structure will parse through applicant tracking systems.
🔍 Formatting Review
Identify design elements, fonts, and layouts that could confuse ATS systems.
📝 Keyword Matching
See which keywords ATS systems will pick up and which are missing from your resume.
✓ Parsing Simulation
Simulate exactly how an ATS system will read and interpret your resume.
Why ATS Compatibility Matters
How ATS Systems Work
When you apply to a job, your resume is automatically scanned by an ATS system. The system parses your CV to extract information, searches for keywords, calculates a match score, and ranks candidates. If your resume isn't ATS-optimized, it may never reach a human recruiter—no matter how qualified you are.
What Happens to Non-ATS-Friendly Resumes
Poorly formatted resumes are often rejected at the ATS stage. Common issues include:
- Complex formatting that confuses parsing algorithms
- Headers and footers that disappear during processing
- Graphics, tables, and columns that can't be read
- Unusual fonts or symbols that get distorted
- Missing keywords that the system is scanning for
The Impact on Your Job Search
Up to 75% of resumes are rejected before a human ever sees them due to ATS incompatibility. By ensuring your resume is ATS-friendly, you dramatically increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
How Our ATS Resume Checker Works
Upload Resume & Job Description
Submit your resume file and optionally paste a job description to get targeted ATS analysis.
ATS Parsing Simulation
Our system simulates how ATS software will parse your resume, identifying potential parsing failures.
Keyword Match Analysis
We analyze which keywords are present and extract their placement, frequency, and relevance.
Formatting Review
Get detailed feedback on formatting issues that could prevent proper ATS parsing.
Get Your ATS Score
Receive a comprehensive ATS compatibility score with actionable recommendations.
Key ATS Compatibility Checks
File Format Compatibility
ATS systems handle different file formats differently. PDFs and Word docs work best, but some systems struggle with certain formatting.
Font & Formatting Issues
Complex fonts, graphics, sidebars, and multi-column layouts confuse ATS parsers. Simple, standard formatting is key.
Section Header Recognition
ATS systems look for standard section headers like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills." Custom headers may not be recognized.
Keyword Optimization
The system scans for industry keywords and job-specific terms. Keywords should be naturally integrated throughout your resume.
Contact Information
Make sure your contact details are clearly formatted so the ATS can extract them for recruiter follow-up.
Date Formatting
Use consistent date formats (January 2023 or 01/2023) to help ATS systems properly parse employment history.
ATS Resume Checker vs. Traditional Resume Review
| Factor | ATS Resume Checker | Human Review |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 30 seconds | Several days |
| Cost | Free | $50-300+ |
| ATS Analysis | ✓ Yes (specialized) | ✗ Limited |
| Format Feedback | ✓ Detailed | Varies |
| Availability | 24/7 | Business hours |
| Personalization | Automated | ✓ Professional |
Common ATS Resume Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Graphics & Images: ATS systems can't read pictures. Remove all images, logos, and graphics.
- Complex Formatting: Multi-column layouts, text boxes, and sidebars confuse parsing algorithms.
- Headers & Footers: Critical information in headers/footers often gets lost during ATS processing.
- Unusual Fonts: Stick to standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman). Decorative fonts get garbled.
- Tables & Columns: ATS systems can't properly read information in tables or multiple columns.
- Non-Standard Section Headers: Use standard headers the ATS system recognizes (not "Technical Expertise" instead of "Skills").
- Special Characters & Symbols: Avoid special symbols, bullets from symbol fonts, or unusual characters.
- Inconsistent Formatting: Mixed date formats, bullet styles, and spacing confuse parsing.
- Long Paragraphs: Use bullet points instead of dense paragraphs for better ATS readability.
- Missing Keywords: Not including job-specific keywords that ATS systems search for.
How to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly
1. Use a Simple, Clean Format
Stick to a basic, single-column layout with standard formatting. Avoid color, graphics, and complex design.
2. Use Standard Fonts
Stick with Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 10-12pt size. These fonts are universally supported.
3. Use Standard Section Headers
Use headers the ATS recognizes: Contact Information, Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
4. Avoid Graphics & Images
Remove all photos, logos, graphics, charts, and images. ATS systems can't process visual elements.
5. Use Bullet Points
Format accomplishments as bullet points rather than paragraphs. This improves readability for both ATS and humans.
6. Use Standard Bullets
Use standard bullet characters (not symbol font bullets). Some ATS systems misread fancy bullets.
7. Optimize for Keywords
Include industry keywords naturally throughout your resume. Research what keywords appear in job postings for your field.
8. Use Consistent Formatting
Keep date formats, spacing, and styling consistent throughout. Inconsistency confuses ATS parsing.
9. Avoid Tables & Columns
Don't use tables, multi-column layouts, or text boxes. Stick to simple linear formatting.
10. Skip Headers & Footers
Important information in headers or footers gets lost. Put everything in the main document body.
Check Your Resume for ATS Compatibility Now
Get instant feedback on how well your resume will parse through applicant tracking systems.
What Our Users Say
Thousands of job seekers have improved their ATS scores with RankMyCV:
"This tool identified formatting issues I never knew about. My resume now passes ATS systems!"
"The keyword analysis was eye-opening. I added the suggested keywords and started getting interview invitations."
"Finally, a free tool that actually works. No credit card, no signup. Just real ATS feedback."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my resume is ATS-friendly?
Use our free ATS resume checker. It will analyze your resume and identify any ATS compatibility issues, giving you specific feedback on what to fix.
Will an ATS-friendly resume guarantee I get interviews?
An ATS-friendly resume ensures you don't get filtered out at the system level, but your qualifications and experience are still important. It's a necessary but not sufficient condition for landing interviews.
Can I use color in my ATS-friendly resume?
While some modern ATS systems can handle color, it's safest to avoid it. Stick to black text on a white background for maximum ATS compatibility.
What's the best file format for ATS compatibility?
PDF is generally the safest option for ATS compatibility, though some older systems prefer Word docs. Avoid unusual formats like .pages or .odt.
Should I use a resume template?
Be careful with resume templates, as many include complex formatting that confuses ATS systems. If you use a template, ensure it's labeled as "ATS-friendly."
How do I add keywords without making my resume look stuffed?
Integrate keywords naturally into your professional summary, job descriptions, and skills section. Focus on relevant keywords that appear in job postings for your target role.
How often should I update my ATS resume?
Update your resume whenever you gain new experience, skills, or certifications. Tailor it for each position by adding job-specific keywords from the job posting.
Can I use the same resume for different types of jobs?
While you can use a base resume, it's best to tailor it for each position. Different roles require different keywords and skill emphases. Use our checker to optimize for specific jobs.