Build a CV that gets past the screening software and still reads well to a person. Every template here is single-column and free of graphics, because large South African employers — banks, insurers, retail groups and government departments — run CVs through an applicant tracking system before anyone reads them. It is free, and nothing you type is stored on our servers.
We never ask for your ID number, date of birth, marital status or a photo. None of these belong on a South African CV in 2026, and leaving them off reduces the chance of being screened out for the wrong reasons.
1. Choose a template
All five are ATS-safe, single-column and fitted to exactly one page. They differ in typography and spacing, not layout.
ATS Classic
Pure black on white, no colour, plain section headings. Maximum compatibility with automated screening. Recommended if you are unsure.
Best for:Banks, corporates, government, anywhere you know an ATS is screening
2. Fill in your details
Personal information
Name, how to reach you, and where you are based. We deliberately do not ask for your ID number, date of birth, marital status or a photo — South African employers no longer expect them on a CV, and leaving them off protects you.
e.g. Retail Sales Assistant, Junior Accountant, General Worker
Printed as plain text so it stays readable to screening software.
Professional summary
Four to six sentences, written for the job title above. South African employers want to see where you are heading, not only what you have done.
Add the job title above first so the summary can be tailored to it. Not written yet.
Always read it over and edit anything that does not sound like you. It is written from what you entered above and never invents jobs or qualifications.
Work experience
Most recent job first. Include part-time, holiday and volunteer work if that is what you have.
Most recent
e.g. Mar 2023
One point per line. Lead with what you achieved and add a number where you can.
Education
Include the NQF level where you know it — SA employers and government posts often screen on it directly.
Highest qualification
e.g. National Senior Certificate (Matric)
e.g. NQF Level 4
Modules, distinctions, or 'in progress'.
One subject per line, e.g. 'English Home Language — 68%'. Strongly recommended for first-job and learnership applications.
Skills
One skill per line. Use the words that appear in the job advert — that is what screening software matches on.
References
South African employers expect real, contactable references — at least two. Ask permission first.
Reference 1
e.g. Store Manager, Pick n Pay
Reference 2
e.g. Store Manager, Pick n Pay
You have 0 references filled in. Two is the minimum most SA employers expect.
Optional sections
Only add these if they strengthen your case.
One per line.
3. Preview and download
1 page
Your Name
Opens your browser's print dialog — choose Save as PDF as the destination. The text stays selectable, which is what screening software reads.
Next step
Upload this CV to your profile and you can apply to Easy Apply jobs in one tap.