What is a Good ATS Score for a Resume? Your Guide to Passing the ATS Test

You’ve spent hours crafting the perfect resume. It’s polished, professional, and packed with your achievements. But here’s the kicker: before it even reaches a human recruiter, it has to pass through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). And if your resume doesn’t score well, it might never see the light of day.

So, what is a good ATS score for a resume, and how can you ensure yours makes the cut? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ATS scores, how they work, and actionable tips to optimize your resume for success.

What is an ATS Score, and Why Does It Matter?

An ATS score is a rating assigned to your resume by an Applicant Tracking System. These systems are used by employers to filter resumes based on how well they match the job description. The higher your score, the better your chances of making it to the next round.

But here’s the catch: most ATS systems don’t reveal their scoring algorithms. This makes it tricky to know exactly what a “good” score is. However, industry experts suggest that a score of 80 or above is generally considered strong.

How Does an ATS Resume Checker Work?

Before we dive into how to improve your ATS score, let’s understand how these systems evaluate your resume:

1. Keyword Matching: The ATS scans your resume for keywords from the job description. These could include skills, job titles, certifications, or industry-specific terms.
2. Formatting: ATS systems prefer clean, simple formats. Complex layouts, graphics, or unusual fonts can confuse the system.
3. Relevance: The ATS checks how well your experience aligns with the job requirements.
4. Context: It looks for keywords in the right context. For example, listing “project management” as a skill is better than just mentioning it in passing.

What is a Good ATS Score for a Resume?

While ATS scoring systems vary, here’s a general breakdown:

To put it simply, aim for a score of 80 or higher to ensure your resume gets noticed.

How to Optimize Your Resume for a High ATS Score

1. Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

The golden rule of ATS optimization is to tailor your resume for each job application. Here’s how:

• Use keywords from the job description: Identify key terms and phrases, and incorporate them naturally into your resume.
• Match the job title: If the job posting is for a “Marketing Manager,” make sure your resume reflects that exact title.
• Highlight relevant skills: Focus on the skills and experience that align with the job requirements.

Pro tip: Use a free ATS resume checker like Jobscan to see how well your resume matches the job description.

2. Use an ATS-Friendly Resume Format

Your resume’s format can make or break its ATS compatibility. Follow these guidelines:

• Stick to simple fonts: Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Avoid graphics and tables: These can confuse the ATS and lead to parsing errors.
• Use standard headings: Label sections clearly with terms like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”

3. Include the Right Keywords

Keywords are the backbone of ATS optimization. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Focus on hard skills: List specific skills like “Python programming” or “SEO optimization.”
• Incorporate soft skills: Include terms like “team leadership” or “communication skills” where relevant.
• Use variations: If the job description mentions “data analysis,” also include terms like “data analytics” or “data-driven decision-making.”

4. Write a Strong Resume Summary

Your resume summary is the first thing the ATS (and human recruiters) will see. Make it count:

• Keep it concise: Aim for 3–4 lines.
• Include keywords: Use terms from the job description to highlight your qualifications.
• Focus on achievements: Mention measurable accomplishments, like “Increased sales by 20%.”

5. Proofread and Test Your Resume

Before submitting your resume, take these final steps:

• Proofread for errors: Typos and grammatical mistakes can hurt your chances.
• Run it through an ATS resume checker: Tools like Jobscan or ResumeWorded can provide a score and suggestions for improvement.
• Save it in the right format: Submit your resume as a Word document or PDF, unless the job posting specifies otherwise.

Common Mistakes That Lower Your ATS Score

Even small errors can sabotage your ATS score. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using headers and footers: These can confuse the ATS.
• Including irrelevant information: Stick to experience and skills that match the job.
• Overloading with keywords: Keyword stuffing can make your resume look unnatural and hurt your score.
• Ignoring the job description: Failing to tailor your resume is a surefire way to get rejected.

Tools to Help You Optimize Your Resume

Here are some tools to help you create an ATS-friendly resume:

Real-Life Example: How to Improve Your ATS Score

Let’s say you’re applying for a Digital Marketing Manager position. Here’s how you can optimize your resume:

1. Job Description Keywords: “SEO,” “Google Analytics,” “content strategy,” “social media management.”
2. Resume Before Optimization:

• “Managed social media accounts and created content.”

1. Resume After Optimization:

• “Developed and executed a comprehensive social media strategy, increasing engagement by 30%. Utilized Google Analytics to track performance and optimize SEO efforts.”

By incorporating keywords and quantifiable achievements, you’ve significantly improved your ATS score.

Final Thoughts: What’s Next?

A good ATS score is just the first step in your job search journey. While it’s crucial to pass the ATS, don’t forget to focus on creating a resume that impresses human recruiters too. Use the tips and tools in this guide to optimize your resume, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.

FAQ’s

1. What is an ATS-friendly resume, and how can a resume builder help create one?

Answer:
An ATS-friendly resume is a resume designed to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by employers to screen job applications. A resume builder can be a game-changer here. It provides ATS-friendly resume templates that are clean, simple, and free of elements that might confuse the ATS. By using a resume builder, you can quickly create a targeted resume that includes keywords from the job description, ensuring your resume is optimized for ATS. Many resume builders also offer built-in ATS checks, helping you improve your resume score and ensure your resume gets past the initial screening.

2. How does a resume scanner work, and can it help me pass ATS screening?

Answer:
A resume scanner works by analyzing your resume against the job description and assigning a resume score based on how well it matches. It checks for keywords from the job description, proper formatting, and relevant experience. For example, if the job posting emphasizes “project management,” the scanner will flag it if your resume doesn’t mention it. By using a free ATS resume checker, you can review your resume and make adjustments to improve your resume score. This process ensures your resume is ATS-compliant and increases your chances of passing through ATS filters.

3. What’s the best way to use a resume template to write an ATS-compliant resume?

Answer:
Using a resume template is one of the easiest ways to write an ATS-compliant resume. Start by selecting a simple, ATS-friendly resume template that avoids complex designs, graphics, or tables. Input your information, focusing on keywords from the job description to ensure your resume is optimized for ATS. For instance, if the job requires “data analysis,” make sure to include that phrase in your skills or work experience sections. A good template will also help you organize your resume into clear sections like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education,” making it easier for the ATS to parse your information.

4. How can I improve my resume score using a free ATS resume checker?

Answer:
A free ATS resume checker is a powerful tool for job seekers looking to improve their resume score. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Upload your resume: Paste your resume and the job description into the tool.
2. Review the feedback: The checker will highlight missing keywords, formatting issues, and other areas for improvement.
3. Make adjustments: Add keywords from the job description, simplify your format, and ensure your resume is optimized for ATS.
4. Recheck your resume: Run it through the scanner again to see your updated resume score.

By following these steps, you can create a resume that passes ATS and stands out to recruiters.

5. What are the key features of an ATS-compliant resume, and how can a professional resume writer help?

Answer:
An ATS-compliant resume has several key features:

• Simple format: Avoids graphics, tables, or unusual fonts that might confuse the ATS.
• Relevant keywords: Includes keywords from the job description throughout the resume.
• Clear sections: Organized into standard sections like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”

A professional resume writer can take your resume to the next level. They know how to write an ATS resume that not only passes ATS but also appeals to human recruiters. They’ll help you create a targeted resume that highlights your strengths and aligns perfectly with the job description. If you’re struggling to improve your resume score, hiring a certified professional resume writer might be worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

Creating an ATS-friendly resume is essential for job seekers in today’s competitive market. By using tools like a resume builder, ATS resume scanner, or even hiring a professional resume writer, you can ensure your resume gets past the ATS and into the hands of a recruiter. Remember, the key is to tailor your resume for each job, use the right keywords from the job description, and keep your format clean and simple.

Ready to optimize your resume? Try a free ATS resume checker today and see how your resume stacks up!

Ready to Boost Your ATS Score?

Start by running your resume through a free ATS resume checker like Jobscan. Identify areas for improvement, tailor your resume to the job description, and watch your score soar. Remember, a high ATS score isn’t just a number—it’s your ticket to getting noticed.

Have questions or tips of your own? Share them in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.