Does your CV pass the
ATS filter?
Most UK job applications go through Applicant Tracking Systems. If your CV isn't ATS-friendly, it may never reach a human.
What is ATS?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software used by recruiters to screen CVs. They parse your document, extract keywords, and score it against the job description. Low scores get filtered out before anyone reads them — often 75%+ of applications.
Why CVs fail ATS
Fancy fonts and layouts break parsing
ATS reads plain text best
Headers, tables, graphics get skipped
Structure matters
Keywords missing for the role
Relevance score drops
Inconsistent formatting across sections
Confuses the parser
What we check in your CV
Our ATS compatibility check evaluates the same elements recruiters' software looks for. Here's what passes muster:
How to improve your ATS score
Small changes can move your CV from the rejection pile to the shortlist. Follow these UK-tested tips:
Use standard headings
Write 'Work Experience' or 'Employment History' — not creative labels. ATS looks for known section names.
Match job description keywords
Include skills and terms from the role description naturally. Don't keyword-stuff — relevance matters.
Stick to simple formatting
Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid columns, text boxes, headers/footers. Save as PDF.
Spell out acronyms once
Write 'Bachelor of Science (BSc)' so the parser understands. Use both full and short form.
List dates clearly
Use 'Jan 2020 – Dec 2022' or '2020-2022'. Ambiguous dates can confuse ATS scoring.
Avoid graphics and images
Logos, charts, and infographics often get stripped. Use plain text for achievements.
Writing an ATS-friendly CV (UK)
An ATS-friendly CV is one that both software and humans can read easily. Start with a clean, single-column layout. Use standard section titles: Personal details, Work experience, Education, and Skills. Avoid tables, multiple columns, or decorative elements — they often break when an ATS extracts text.
Tailor your CV to each application. Copy keywords from the job description and weave them into your experience and skills. If the role asks for "project management" or "stakeholder liaison", use those exact phrases where they fit. But don't keyword-stuff: relevance and context matter. ATS and recruiters both penalise obvious manipulation.
Save your CV as a PDF unless the employer asks for Word. PDFs preserve formatting across systems. Use a simple font (Arial, Calibri) at 11–12pt. Keep dates consistent (e.g. Jan 2020 – Present). If in doubt, run your CV through a tool that checks ATS compatibility — or get a full report with Credify when you sign up.
Get your ATS score with Credify
When you sign up, we run a full ATS compatibility check on your CV. You get expert feedback on structure, keywords, and format — plus a verified seal so recruiters know it's real.
Full ATS compatibility check
We analyse structure, keywords, and format
Expert CV review included
Human feedback from recruiters
Verification seal + QR
Proof it's real — recruiters trust it
One-time £4.99
No subscription, 1 year access
ATS Check — FAQ
What is an ATS score?
An ATS score is the rating an Applicant Tracking System gives your CV based on how well it parses, matches keywords, and fits the role. Higher scores pass through to recruiters; lower ones get filtered out automatically.
Do all UK companies use ATS?
Most medium and large employers do — especially for graduate schemes, corporate roles, and volume hiring. Even smaller firms often use tools like Reed, Indeed, or LinkedIn that apply similar screening.
Can I improve my ATS score?
Yes. Use standard headings, simple formatting, and relevant keywords from the job description. Avoid complex layouts, graphics, and non-standard sections. Our ATS check shows exactly where your CV needs work.
How does Credify's ATS check work?
When you sign up, we analyse your CV for ATS compatibility: structure, keywords, formatting, and common parsing issues. You get a full report plus expert human feedback on how to improve.
Is ATS check included in Credify?
Yes. The full ATS compatibility check and expert CV review are included in your one-time £4.99 payment. No extra fees — it's part of the package.
Don't guess — know how your CV scores. Sign up and get your full ATS report plus expert review.
Check my CV — Sign up £4.99 →One-time · 1 year access · ATS check + expert review + verification
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