22 October, 2025
ATS-Friendly Resume Templates That Get Past the Bots
Nowadays, a good job does not only depend on your skills but also on how your resume looks. And most companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to read thousands of resumes rapidly before any human checks them. So, if your resume does not follow the proper structure, it will increase the chance of rejection by a bot. Furthermore, here ATS resume templates come to get past the bots.
Create your resume with a simple design, layout, proper formatting, a single column, standard sections, readable fonts, and a relevant job description that can be machine-scanned easily. A good ATS resume design avoids complex formatting, graphics, images, and tables and opens new opportunities for your future. So, let's further explore why resume designs matter and discuss the best types of resume templates that work.
What Is an ATS Resume Template?
It is specially designed to read resumes flawlessly by applicant tracking systems. Many companies use this software, as it is time-effective, and if your resume is not optimized for these systems, it will be rejected even if you are the right choice for that post. Unlike fancy images and heavy designs, these templates use a balanced style and simplicity.
You can also check our detailed guide on how to write a resume to make sure your information flows well within any ATS-friendly layout. These templates are also easy to read for software and look attractive to the hiring manager.
This is the reason why many candidates now combine ATS templates with smart job platforms like AI Job Orbit, which automatically matches your resume to roles where your skills align best, saving hours of manual searching.
But let's look at the features of an ATS Resume template:
Find neat titles and divisions such as education, experience, and expertise.
Try to use basic font types that are easy to read, like Arial and Times New Roman.
Use fewer visualizations and bright colors.
Manage sections in an organized format.
Why Do You Need an ATS Resume Design?
Imagine you create a resume full of images and graphics, spending hours only to realize the system cannot scan it. And that resume may never pass from the eyes of recruiters because most companies automatically filter resumes. It helps companies to monitor the high number of resumes they receive. So, here is the reason why ATS resume design matters.
Mostly in hiring, because this software scans the resume before a human sees it.
The system scans the relevant words in the resume about the job description, and if it is not well structured, there is a chance to miss the resonated information from your CV.
Even students and beginners can get a fair chance if their resumes are ATS-friendly.
Using a ready-made professional resume template saves hours of trial and error.
How Applicant Tracking System Resumes Work
Using an applicant tracking system, resumes built with clean formatting are critical because when you submit your resume online, here’s what happens:
The ATS reads your file.
It focuses on categorizing text like name, experience, skills, and education.
It checks for keywords that match the job description.
If the system understands your resume, it passes it on to the recruiter. If not, it gets filtered out.
Features of Resume Templates That Work
Multiple columns and tables may confuse the software; try to stick to one column.
Do not use imaginative titles such as "My Journey." Be professional by using words such as experience.
Avoid decorative fonts; use plain text so that the reader may read it easily.
Add space to write skills and job description.
Always save in .docx or PDF that is ATS-friendly.
Different Types of ATS Resume Templates
Here are popular options that work for different needs:
1. Student Resume Templates
If you are new, this template is invaluable to you. They are simple, short, and perfect for freshies. Moreover, it highlights education, projects, and internship experience.
2. Quick Resume Templates
When you need a resume urgently, quick templates provide ready-made designs where you can add your details within minutes. These are best for job fairs or sudden openings.
3. Professional Resume Templates
These templates are suitable for senior positions or mid-level occupations, creating a moderate appearance of main headings, breathing areas, and readability both to the bots and human beings.
4. Premium Resume Templates
These are paid designs that combine style and ATS rules. They look polished, work for competitive industries, and often come with matching cover letter layouts.
5. Resume and Cover Letter Bundle
Sometimes, you need both documents. Bundled templates save time and give a consistent look to your job application. So, download resume templates.
Fresh Approach: Designing for Both Bots and Humans
It is not only about getting past the bots, but you also have to impress both the recruiter and the software. Here are the points on how you will do it.
Start with a clean resume template that also has an ATS-friendly base.
Use human flow by adding real stories and achievements and maintaining readable flow.
Keep your resume short; if you're a fresher, one page is enough, and for experienced levels, two pages.
Add keywords according to the job post, but make it natural.
Download Resume Templates: Where to Start
If you want to save time, the best way is to download resume templates that are already tested for ATS. Many platforms provide free and paid options. Free ones are good for students or quick needs, while premium ones add polish for senior roles. Always make sure you choose a source that provides resume templates that work, not just stylish designs.
Tip: You can also Import Resume data or run it through our ATS Checker to see how well your file performs before downloading or applying.
Mistakes to Avoid in ATS Resumes
Even with the right template, small mistakes can block your chances. Avoid these:
Using images, logos, or icons
Do not add personal information that is not required for the job
Never write important details like name or contact in the header and footer.
Saving as image-based PDF
Overloading with colors or designs
Be consistent with date formats
Don't use the duplicate content and resume for every job.
Proofread your resume to correct grammatical errors
Using unusual section names
Forgetting to include job-related keywords
Avoid lengthy descriptions; focus on short and quality content
Why Premium Templates Are Worth It
Premium resume templates are worth it; don't hesitate to invest in them. They offer high-quality designs and unique features with regular updates for security. If you get back one interview, it will pay off. Premium designs must have
Extra sections for the certificate and language
Matching resume and cover letter bundle
Tested ATS format
Professional styles for corporate
Regular updates to ensure the latest version
Quick Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out
Use numbers to show results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).
Keep each bullet point short and precise.
Constantly update your resume for each job role.
Save different versions of your resume template for quick edits.
Keep a simple design, but highlight your best skills at the top.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ATS resume template gives you a higher chance of getting a job and helps you create an impression in front of a recruiter you do not meet in real life. There are many templates that work best, from quick resume templates to premium resume templates. However, take your time to pick a clean and straightforward design that works for both the recruiter and the machine. Download the resonated template and update it promptly with your achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Can ATS detect AI-generated resumes?
No, it does not detect AI resumes; it only focuses on how well the resume is aligned with the job description.
Does ATS reject CVs?
Yes, if a resume is improperly formatted, has a complicated layout, or is sent in the wrong file format.
Why am I getting so many rejection letters?
It's because maybe you don't have enough experience or skills. Check your resume against the job post, then apply for it.
What resume template gets past ATS?
Simple and clean, with a straightforward layout that avoids complex formatting.
How to stop your CV from being screened out by bots?
Only apply for the relevant jobs, use correct keywords, include a skills section, and use simple language.
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