Blog › How to Write a Graduate CV
By CVAutomate · Updated 1 July 2026
As a recent graduate, crafting a compelling CV can be a daunting task. Your CV is often the first impression potential employers have of you, and it needs to effectively showcase your skills, education, and experiences. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps to write a graduate CV that not only highlights your qualifications but also passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by many employers today.
Understanding how ATS works is crucial. These systems scan CVs for specific keywords and formats, ranking them based on relevance to the job description. By tailoring your CV to match job requirements, you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.
⚡ Scan your CV against any job — free →A well-structured CV is essential for making a positive impression. Here’s a typical structure you should follow:
Keep your CV to one page, especially as a graduate. Employers appreciate concise information that is easy to read.
One of the most effective ways to ensure your CV passes ATS is to tailor it for each job application. This involves:
Using a tool like CVAutomate can be beneficial. It offers a free scan of your CV against the job description to identify areas for improvement, ensuring you stand out in the application process.
Employers want to see what you have accomplished, not just what you have done. Use action verbs to start your bullet points, such as "developed," "led," or "analyzed." Additionally, quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example:
Quantifying your accomplishments helps potential employers understand the impact you made in your previous roles.
Finally, always proofread your CV for spelling and grammatical errors. A single mistake can make a bad impression. Consider asking a mentor, career advisor, or peer to review your CV and provide constructive feedback. They might catch errors you missed or suggest improvements.
Once you have a polished CV, you can use CVAutomate’s Pro features for a more comprehensive analysis and tailored suggestions to improve your chances even further.
In summary, a well-crafted graduate CV is your ticket to securing interviews. Tailor it for each application, use action verbs, and always proofread.
Include contact information, a personal statement, education, work experience, skills, and any relevant additional sections.
Read the job description carefully, identify keywords, and adjust your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills.
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by employers to filter job applications. Optimizing your CV for ATS increases your chances of being seen by hiring managers.
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