Free ATS Resume Score Checker: Analyze & Improve Your Resume

Wondering why your resume isn’t getting responses? It could be that your resume isn’t passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Knowing your ATS resume score can help you optimize your resume to improve its chances of getting noticed. Use our free ATS resume score checker to analyze your resume and see how well it matches job descriptions. Here’s everything you need to know about ATS scores and how to improve them.

What is an ATS Resume Score?

An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by companies to filter resumes based on specific criteria such as keywords, formatting, and job experience. Your resume’s ATS score indicates how well it aligns with these criteria, determining whether it will reach a human recruiter. A higher score increases the chances of your resume getting reviewed. While each ATS platform has its nuances, improving your overall resume quality can help it perform better across different systems.

Popular ATS platforms include Greenhouse, Taleo, Zoho, ICIMS, and Bullhorn. These systems help employers sift through numerous applications by scanning for specific keywords, skills, and experiences that match the job description.

How to Check Your Resume ATS Score

Our ATS resume score checker is easy to use and free. Here’s how you can check your resume’s ATS score:

1. Upload Your Resume: Simply upload your resume file to our analyzer tool.
2. Get a Detailed Report: Our system will analyze your resume and provide a score based on various ATS criteria, including keyword density, formatting, and structure.
3. Make Improvements: Use the insights and suggestions to optimize your resume, ensuring it meets ATS standards and stands out to recruiters.

Common Reasons Your Resume Might Not Pass ATS

Many resumes fail to make it past ATS systems for simple, avoidable reasons. Here are some common issues that may lead to a low ATS score:

• Not Using Job-Specific Keywords: Most ATS systems look for specific keywords that match the job description. Ensure your resume includes the relevant skills and phrases. For example, if a job requires "project management" skills, make sure this phrase is visible on your resume. Read more about using keywords effectively in resumes.
• Incorrect or Complex Formatting: ATS systems can struggle with images, tables, and unusual fonts. Stick to simple, clear formatting and avoid graphics, columns, or text boxes that might confuse the software.
• Using Headers and Footers Incorrectly: Many ATS systems do not scan information placed in headers and footers, so avoid placing important contact details or key skills there.
• Missing Sections: Ensure your resume has standard sections like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." Missing sections can lead to lower scores because the ATS might fail to recognize where your qualifications are listed.

How to Improve Your Resume ATS Score

Improving your resume ATS score involves optimizing your resume to align with ATS criteria. Here are some actionable tips:

• Use Job-Specific Keywords: Analyze the job description and include keywords related to skills, job titles, and qualifications. For example, if you are applying for a role that requires "Python programming," make sure it appears in your resume. Refer to our guide on resume keywords for IT professionals for more examples.
• Choose an ATS-Friendly Format: Use standard headings, avoid fancy fonts, and limit the use of images. Our ATS-friendly resume templates can help ensure your resume is easy for ATS systems to read.
• Quantify Achievements: Numbers stand out to both ATS and recruiters. Instead of saying "Managed a team," say "Managed a team of 10 to improve efficiency by 20%." Quantifying achievements can give a clearer picture of your impact.
• Check Grammar and Consistency: Make sure your resume is free from grammatical errors and maintains a consistent format. Some ATS systems may flag inconsistent bullet styles or improper punctuation.

Popular ATS Platforms and Resume Optimization Tips

While KudosWall’s Resume Analyzer does not specifically tailor your resume for individual ATS systems, improving general ATS compatibility can make your resume more effective across platforms. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Greenhouse ATS: Focus on clear, concise job descriptions and relevant keywords. Greenhouse emphasizes skill-based matching.
• Taleo ATS: This platform prefers straightforward, well-structured resumes without excessive formatting.
• Zoho ATS: Ensure your resume has clear, defined sections for easy scanning by the system.
• ICIMS ATS: Focus on keyword density and matching specific skills to the job description.
• Bullhorn ATS: Use precise job titles and avoid overly complex formatting.

Additional Resources to Improve Your Resume

For more in-depth guidance, check out these articles:

• 8 Common ATS Myths vs. Facts: Optimize Your Resume for Better ATS Results
• ATS Optimization: How NOT to Overwhelm Applicant Tracking Systems for Better Job Application Results
• Never Do This With Your Resume to Trick ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
• How to Help the Applicant Tracking System to Help You?

FAQs About Resume ATS Scores

• What is an ATS score?
  Your ATS score indicates how well your resume matches the requirements set by Applicant Tracking Systems. Higher scores mean your resume is more likely to pass ATS filters and reach a recruiter.
• How can I check my ATS score for free?
  Use KudosWall’s free resume analyzer to check your ATS score and get detailed suggestions for improvement. Simply upload your resume, and our tool will take care of the rest.
• What is the best way to improve my resume score?
  Include relevant job-specific keywords, stick to a clear and simple format, quantify your achievements, and avoid placing important information in headers or footers. Regularly updating your resume to align with job descriptions can also help.
• How do ATS systems work?
  ATS systems scan resumes for keywords, phrases, and relevant experience that match the job description. They analyze the content, format, and structure to score resumes based on how well they align with the job requirements.
• Do different ATS systems score resumes differently?
  Yes, each ATS platform has its own algorithms, but general best practices—like using relevant keywords, maintaining a simple layout, and ensuring clean formatting—will help improve your resume’s performance across various systems.
• Can ATS score impact my job application success?
  Absolutely. A higher ATS score means your resume is more likely to make it past the initial filtering stage, increasing your chances of getting an interview. It's essential to optimize your resume for ATS to boost visibility.
• Can a Resume Resume Builder improve my ATS score?
  Yes, using a quality Resume Resume Builder like KudosWall ensures your resume is optimized with the right keywords, formatting, and structure to pass ATS screenings, improving your chances of landing interviews.