Templates for cvs in word

Direct, on-page, download links to free-to-use Microsoft Word Resume Templates. Freely editable, useable for, you, the jobseeker!

Download and start editing!

Microsoft Word Resume Templates Download Best 12

Functional Format

Restaurant Resume Word Template

The minimal styling keeps its focus on the content. A great fit for job candidates targeting experienced (management), and specialized (technicians) jobs.

  • All Word versions
  • Functional (Executive) format.docx

Chronological Format

ms word resume template

Impressive and professional resume design. A clean and effective template. Readers can quickly scan and identify its sections. A safe and sound choice for any job and career stage.

  • All Word versions
  • Chronological format.docx

Chronological Format

Word resume template

Impressive and professional resume design. A clean and effective template. Readers can quickly scan and identify its sections. A safe and sound choice for any job and career stage.

  • All Word versions
  • Chronological format.docx

(commercial use is not allowed) and will be legally prosecuted

Purple & Pink

pink red and white word resume with photo

A clean and modern resume design that allows you to customize all of its elements. Even the colors!

  • Best for Word 2018+
  • ResumeViking 26.docx

Green & Green

modern photo word resume with green design elements

Impressive but subtle green resume design to show are your essentials. A resume for starters and mid-career workers.

  • Best for Word 2018+
  • ResumeViking 22.docx

Georgia Fleck

creative word resume template

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • Best for Word 2018+
  • ResumeViking 21.docx

Professional Word Resumes Templates

The free resume templates made in Word are easily adjustable to your needs and personal situation.

Modern Word Resumes Templates

John Smith

modern word resume green

A peculiar type of green design. This resume lets you create a one and two-page pager with all your essential data.

  • ResumeViking 1.docx

Andrea Rowland

Minimal design word resume

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • ResumeViking 18.docx

Charlotte Anderson

rose resume word format

Your Rose Resume design, complimentary with cover letter and business card. Personal use only.

  • Rose Resusme.docx

Sales and design resume

resume template word

A sales resume? A designer resume? This template you can use in many industries. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 10.docx

Connor Green

resume template word

Modern resume design. Visualizing your track record or the charts out. It’s up to you. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 8.docx

Charlotte Webb

resume template word

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 17.docx

Creative Word Resume Templates

In this word there are many wonderful things. So are our free creative resume’s. Only for personal use.

Therapist

red white word resume template

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 5.docx

Sunset

free creative word resume

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • ResumeViking 3.docx

Spring

resume template word green

Tight green, modern resume design with the option of adding your photo. Personal use only.

  • ResumeViking 9.docx

Moss

resume template word

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • ResumeViking 19.docx

More Resume’s!

Andrew Furness

orange black word resume template

Basic, minimal design with the option of a photo. Keep it black and orange or change it all up. For personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 6.docx

Orange Resume

resume template word

Orange Resume with graphs and a photo option. Edit all details to your personal situation. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 12.docx

Yellow Resume

Word resume format with timeline photo

A yellow resume with a timeline design and graphic pies. Download and edit freely. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 11.docx

Golden Brown Resume

creative word resume

Golden Brown and Dark. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 13.docx

Venice Beach

word resume template

Happy, retro, feminine, and vintage resume template. It’s a description that doesn’t do justice it’s the design. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 14.docx

Thomas Earland

minimal creative word resume

Basic, minimal design with the option of adding a photo to your resume. Personal use only.

  • Experience format
  • Chronological
  • ResumeViking 16.docx

You can make your resume easier!

Getting tired of Microsoft Word, and it’s design formatting? Use the resume tool, which is the ideal help to spin out 18 different resume designs with a one-click download. Edit at any time. Perfectly scalable. Downloads in Word & PDF.

One Week access is only $2.95(!)

Oh, and it includes cover letters too!

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Free Word Resume Templates by ResumeViking.com

Average rating:

 

45 reviews

Apr 3, 2023

 by Marvella

The template was beautiful and was everything I wanted, but it was a complete nightmare to make even the slightest change in MSFT Word. I couldn’t get rid of the generic picture in the template without altering key components of the resume. I’m about to bite the bullet and pay $24 for a resume I pre made because that was much easier than dealing with these templates.

Mar 10, 2023

 by Kellyv Vugt

word docs without ads. perfect

Mar 3, 2023

 by Gael Breton

Super

Feb 1, 2023

 by Tanya Lotus

You are such amaizing souls! Merci

Jan 25, 2023

 by Ale

My word is from 2013 and not always work well

Jan 21, 2023

 by Melissa Grenados

Thanks you so much!!

Jan 11, 2023

 by Alfred Peacock

Increible! Graci!

Dec 13, 2022

 by mahmoud alnajjar

thank you very much

Nov 23, 2022

 by Ali Baba

very good

Aug 25, 2022

 by Dinith Sithunaash

Easy to download. Interested in your templates. Thank you.

Using a CV template in Word has come a long way. You don’t have to put up with that annoying Clippy thing anymore for a start.

But trying to sift through all the low-quality Word CV Templates to find a good one? Like the lady says, ain’t nobody got time for that.

But now you can rest easy. I’ve done all the hard work for you and carefully curated a collection of CV templates for Word that have all the necessary ingredients to land you a job.

So make a coffee, sit back and enjoy. You’re going to love them, you have my word—template that is!

Pay special attention to the Zety templates, they’re fully optimized to appeal to recruiters and be easy to use. Read on to find out more.

Want to save time and have your CV ready in 5 minutes? Try our CV builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ CV templates and create your CV here.

Create your CV now

Sample CV made with our builder—See more CV examples here.

Before you choose the perfect template, find out how to make the perfect CV. See how: 

  • How to Write a CV 
  • CV Format: 20+ Examples & Tips
  • What is a CV?
  • CV Examples for All Professions

1

Valera

resume word

We begin with one of our own templates. It’s a personal favorite of mine. Deceptively simple, but with a real touch of flair in the way it makes use of fonts for a CV. The pairing of cursive headings with simple body text looks stylish and youthful, but remains readable and professional. It has a matching cover letter template too, like all of our CVs.

All of our templates are downloadable in Word format, but the best format to save your final CV copy is PDF. With our builder it’s easy, you get three download options PDF, MS Word document and plain text.

2

Cascade

resume word

Another Zety CV template for Word. With our builder, you just enter all your details then save the final result as a DOC file. No messing around in Word while you’re writing. 

(You know what it’s like, move an image a fraction of an inch and suddenly everything shifts, four new pages appear, smoke comes out of your keyboard and you hear police sirens in the distance.)

All the layout pain is on us with Cascade. The two-column CV format is visually appealing and gives lots of room to max out your credentials as the perfect candidate. Nice use of color, too. 

The blue column to the left uses two different shades and the right side nicely picks out the blue in the titles. The health bars for software and language skills are the cherry on top. A great choice of Word CV template.

Blue looks great but as with all of our templates, you can effortlessly choose from a rainbow of colors. 

3

Blue Grey

sample resume templates

This modern CV template is a Word free download. Just click on File, then New and search for “blue grey”, if you don’t see it right away. I love the color scheme of this one, very calm and professional. The gently rounded curves of the grey column are also a very nice touch. Nice looking health bars for the CV skills section ,too.

The original version of this template did have a problem. It had a photo of the candidate. I replaced it with a set of initials and you should do the same. If you’ve ever wondered “should I put a picture on my CV,” the answer is a definite no.

4

Columns

sample resume templates

Columns is a free CV template in Word. Just search for it when you create a new document. It has all the neat rectangular arrangement of a Mondrian painting. Your CV summary, work experience section, everything is neatly boxed off so it can be read in turn.

Thankfully it doesn’t go with Mondrian’s bold primary colors, opting for smooth blue and taupe instead. A great choice to show you can leverage the best layout for a CV.

5

Contemporary Purple

sample resume templates

I know, it sounds like one of those weird names for interior paint colors. It sure is eye-catching though. Sometimes small changes make all the difference and this one adds white chevrons to the purple left-hand column. It’s a clever visual trick to draw the eye down and make sure everything gets read. 

Even better, it’s another free CV template in Word. As with any native Word template, click on File, then New, and search for “Contemporary.”

6

Modern

resume word

This Zety CV template for Word keeps the promise of its name. It really is a modern CV Word template. The way the bars on each column balance each other is very pleasing on the eye. 

This also helps draw the reader’s gaze across all the content. That’s a good thing because the average recruiter takes just 7 seconds to scan a CV and you want them to see as much as possible. 

Like many of our Microsoft Word CV templates, it features a health bar for software and language skills. Health bars originate in the world of gaming and they’re an effective way to power up your CV. 

Like all of our templates, you can change font types, sizes and spacing. Plus you will also get a matching cover letter template. 

7

Iconic

resume word

Another aptly named Zety CV template for Word. We’ve made good use of icons throughout. Each one functions as a little infographic explaining the information it accompanies. Infographics are another powerful upgrade to your CV as they make the content more persuasive. 

That said, the best CV templates for Word always keep any graphic touches subtle. If you have a heavily infographic CV you risk it not being ATS compliant and that means it’ll never get read.

As with all of our templates, our builder makes writing your CV quick and easy. No need to mess around with formatting and layout. Just type in your text and we do the rest.

8

Blue Suede Template

sample resume templates

If in doubt, the best approach in choosing a free CV template for Word is to KISS. That’s the classic design principle of keep it simple stupid

This template follows a basic single-column format, lots of room to fill in your details. It still manages to look sophisticated though, simply through the sky blue accents to the top and bottom of the page. The look is like a slick corporate letterhead. Classy indeed. This one comes from Cool Free CV.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

9

Manon

sample resume templates

A very modern looking CV template that you can download from Template Monster. The golden color highlights hint that you’re as high value as the precious metal. Then the layout takes a different approach from most others, using a combination one and two-column style. 

Make sure you remove the photo though, replace it with a solid fill in the same color as the background or your initials. 

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

10

Daniela

sample resume templates

We’re now half-way through our list. See any you like yet? If not, don’t worry, there’s 10 more to come. 

This is another Word CV Template from Template Monster. Its unique selling point isn’t the layout, that’s pretty standard. It’s the colors! So tastefully chosen. This is the sort of color scheme you’d expect to see in a five-star hotel room. A template to show you’re a candidate of distinction.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

11

Diamond

resume word

Diamonds are forever, but your current job doesn’t have to be. Get a new one with this Zety Word CV template. The diamonds are the icons, the bullet points, and the health bars. 

Look to the left and you’ll see there’s even a “diamond necklace” to help pull the recruiter’s eye all the way down to CV certifications. The sharp angles and monochrome color scheme also look great on CV paper. Great for if you need to print out your CV.

Like all of our CV templates this one is guaranteed ATS scannable. If you choose a free CV template download you risk using one that’ll be rejected before it gets read.

12

Initials

resume word

A distinguished-looking CV Word template from Zety. Two columns with plenty of white space and that’s a good thing. What you leave out can be as important as what you put in and white space gives a big boost to readability. 

Check out how your initials feature in a circular stamp to the right of the CV header. It looks just like a seal of quality, confirming you as a top-grade candidate for the job. Great for more experienced candidates as there is so much room for job-winning content.

If you’re less experienced don’t worry, as with our other templates you can add, remove and rearrange sections to suit your needs. Then the builder ensures the formatting stays intact.

13

Black Tie

sample resume templates

This template looks just like an invite for a fancy social event or even a menu for an expensive restaurant. Classic elegance, just like its name. In this format, it’s a good choice for a new graduate as it puts the CV education section above experience.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

When making a CVin our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building your CV here.

Create the perfect CV

When you’re done, Zety’s CV builder will score your CV and tell you exactly how to make it better.

14

Flower Power

sample resume templates

Another free CV template from Word’s own repository. A floral theme this time for a fresh, youthful and feminine feel. It’s probably not the best choice if you’re applying to a more conservative organization, but would be perfect for more creative CVs. 

With a motif like that, you can almost feel a spring breeze when you read it. Though whoever wrote this obviously hasn’t read our guide on what to include in a CV. Take a look and get the section titles right. To access this CV template, search for “pink floral” when creating a new document.

15

Dark Elegance

sample resume templates

If you want a unique CV template this is the one for you. A word of warning though, this won’t look great on paper unless done with a high-resolution printer. Best to test it out if you ever plan to print it. Still, if dark and brooding is your thing, this is your go-to template.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

16

Ray of Sunshine

sample resume templates

A very cheery template from Freesume. Simplicity itself, but a great example of what fashionistas call a color pop. That yellow is so bright and eye-catching. It’s a joyful color too, and certain to bring a ray of sunshine to anyone reviewing a stack of dull, predictable CVs. They’ll be happy to give you a call after seeing this mood-lifting layout.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

17

Bubble Gum

sample resume templates

This is also a free CV template for Word created by Freesume. In color theory, pink is seen as feminine, nurturing and caring, but don’t be limited by that. It’s a great choice for men too, if you want to stand out, but still stay tasteful. 

There’s another nice color trick here, too. If this template featured bright pink on black, it’d be over the top. Dusty pink on dark grey ensures it stays soft and tasteful.

Here’s the link to this CV template for Word.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here’s what it may look like:

matching set of resume and cover letter

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

18

Concept

resume word

We finish with a trio of Zety Word CV Templates. First up is Concept. The dark sidebar is in the form of a timeline. It adds visual interest while staying simple and uncluttered. 

Then to the right is a spacious single-column layout with discreet CV icons. You can see that the icon for each section joins with the bullet points to form a string of beads. 

Another template that cleverly keeps the eye going down the page.

19

Cubic

resume word

Cubic is a great name for a CV template for Word. Huey Lewis was right, it’s hip to be square. This template starts off strong, your name’s in lights in white text on a dark header. Moving down it goes for the familiar two-column format, but look closer. 

The left side is a two-column within a two-column. The timeline to the left emphasizes the classic chronological CV format. Then the right-side column is a calming pale blue. Perfect to soothe an overworked hiring manager.

Planning to use another CV format like functional or combination? Our builder lets you adapt the layout to any format you choose.

20

Nanica

resume word

Let’s finish with a Zety CV template for Word. A CV doesn’t always need colors and icons to look good. Nanica is an exercise in Marie Kondo minimalism. There’s just a tasteful use of health bars to stop it being too plain. 

This one is a reassuringly traditional CV template and a great choice for when you’re targeting something more conservative. 

That’s it! Have you got an incredible CV template for Word you want to share? Need any help with creating a Word CV template yourself? We’ve got a comments section just for you so please ask.

An ever-growing collection of downloadable resume templates to make your job search less of a drag. Browse our new templates by resume design, resume format and resume style to find the best match!

Straight Shooter Resume
Straight Shooter

Snapshot to Success Resume Template
Snapshot to Success

Innovative Impact Resume
Innovative Impact

Modern Resume Templates

Contrast Resume
Contrast

The Intelligent Applicant Resume Template
The Intelligent Applicant

Modern Clean Resume
The Modern Clean

The Minimalist CV Layout
The Minimalist

The Cyan Splash Resume
Cyan Splash

The Feminine Resume Template
The Feminine

Our editorial collection of free modern resume templates for Microsoft Word features stylish, crisp and fresh resume designs that are meant to help you command more attention during the ‘lavish’ 6 seconds your average recruiter gives to your resume.

  • Crafted with great attention to details
  • Designed for easy readability and skimming
  • Highlight the key information you want to get across

This is a very high performing set of templates that are working well for those seeking IT and tech-based jobs, as well as employment in startups and dynamic companies.

Professional Resume Templates

Smart And Professional Resume
Smart & Professional

Powerful Makeover Resume Template
Powerful Makeover

Plain but Trendy Curriculum Vitae
Plain but Trendy

The Strategist Resume
The Strategist

Simple Snapshot Photo Resume
Simple Snapshot

Modish and Elegant Resume Template
Modish and Elegant

Select one of our professional resume templates if you have plenty of work experience under your belt. Clean-cut and straight to the point, these free templates help you place your significant work experience in the limelight.

  • Strategic layout, maximizing how much details you can fit in a page.
  • No frills, professional resume style that works for all companies
  • “Sells” you as a strong candidate

Creative Resume Templates

The Vintage Rose Resume Template
Vintage Rose

Free Resume Templates
Classy Emerald

Elegant Dark Grey Resume Template
Elegant Dark Grey

Pink Resume Blush and Pixie
Blush and Pixie

The Sophisticated Candidate Resume Template
The Sophisticated Candidate

Professional Purple Resume
Professional Purple

Each one of our creative resumes offers a perfectly balanced mix of personality, professionalism and a touch of unique style. Set your resume apart from others by using our punchy templates!

  • Memorable personal branding
  • Communicate a unique personal vibe
  • Pack a lot of information without overwhelming the reader

Remember: these free resume templates work best for creatives who want to be noticed. Most resume templates in this category will work best for jobs in architecture, design, advertising, marketing, and entertainment among others.

So if you are, for instance, an accountant seeking a corporate position with a big name firm, scroll back to the professional or simple resume design collection instead!

Simple and Basic Resume Templates

Classic Resume Template Sleek and Simple
Sleek and Simple

Shades of Black CV Template
Shades of Black

Basic Grey and White Resume
Basic Grey and White

Classic And Sleek Resume Design
Classic and Sleek

Plain and Simple Resume Sample
Plain and Simple

Professional Clean Resume
Professional Clean

Sometimes all you need is a classic style resume template that is clean, clear and straight to the point. That’s exactly the kind of resume templates you can find in this category!

  • Applicant tracking software-friendly designs
  • Very easy to customize
  • Simple and effective resume layout to get your message across

Free CV Templates

Looking for an impactful CV template with the correct formatting? We’ve got you covered here too. Browse our special edition of professional CV templates, perfectly suited for academic and federal in the US, plus any type of job applications in the EU.

Save Time with our Popular Resume Examples

Resume Template with No College Degree
No College Degree Resume Template

Resume Template for a Teacher Position
Teacher Resume Template

Entry-Level Resume Template
First-Job Resume Template

Resume Template for an Internship
Internship Resume Template

Resume Template for a Data Analyst
Data Analyst Resume Template

Resume Template for an Executive Position
Executive Resume Template

Get done with writing faster by downloading a pre-filled resume template for your position. Take advantage of the pointers and sample texts, created by a professional team of resume writers.

Our remarkable set of role-based resume templates includes the optimal visual layout, paired with written text snippets you can use to model your own resume.

Discover:

  • Examples of convincing resume bullet heads for the work experience section
  • Actionable examples of resume summaries and professional bios
  • Polished-to-perfection resume skills section with swipeable samples
  • Crisply formatted educational section for degree and no-degree candidates

Google Docs Resume Templates

Don’t have Microsoft Word installed? Fret not. We’ve also created a separate set of resume templates, optimized for Google docs. Download and edit your new resume design in the cloud and share it with others in one click!

PRO TIP:

The ultimate goal of a resume is not to land you the job – it’s to prompt the hiring manager to initiate an interview based on what he or she has read. A quality resume is best viewed as a tool that articulates your “story,” from which you can present yourself as the most qualified candidate.

Claire

Claire Briggs
Career Consultant, CPCC, CPRW
LinkedIn

So, which resume template is the right for you?

At Freesumes our goal is to create universally appealing resume templates — such that suit professionals across various niches with different experience levels (entry-level to senior candidates).

That is why we’ve created the four specific resume templates categories. Every one of them includes a variety of resume templates, made by professional designers and vetted by career experts.

100% free resume templates by Freesumes

3,725,277 templates downloaded.

Essential Tips for Using Your Resume Template

When you have decided on which resume template to use, you should download it and save a copy to your computer. You can then start to personalize the template content to make it your own.

Let’s take a look at some tips for personalizing your template so it becomes unique to you:

1. First things first, keep things simple

Your resume template has been professionally designed for the right balance of style and content. All our templates are easily editable with Microsoft Word so all you have to do is just type in your information in the sections provided for you.

2. Don’t overload your resume

Your resume isn’t a record of your whole life. You don’t need to add in absolutely everything you have ever done. Remember that a recruiter will be skimming over your resume looking for their preferred keywords and your relevant information and work experience for the job at hand. Give them the information they are looking for as quickly and as easily as possible. Read our blog post about Powerful Words to use in your Resume.

3. Unique file name

Our resume templates are delivered with the generic (and frankly not so creative) name “resume.doc”. Before emailing or uploading your resume, take a second and give it a file name that is easily recognizable, such as your first name initial and your surname. This way it will be easy to spot and open by the recruiter.

4. Proofread and proofread again

Proofreading your resume is so important. You want to create the right first impression so check over your resume again for errors or spelling mistakes. Get someone else to proofread it for you before you send it off or make use of a grammar and spelling checker.

5. Convert it to PDF

Chances are your resume makes use of custom fonts, has a special layout or design elements that may break or look bad once opened on a different computer because the custom fonts are missing, the MS Word version is older or whatever. So, once you have done editing your document and double checked that you haven’t missed any of the above points, we recommend saving your document as a PDF file to make sure that the recruiters will see the same thing as you do.

The 3 Resume Formats To Choose From

Before you go on with choosing one of the different resume templates, you should decide on the optimal resume format – the one that will highlight your strengths as a candidate and mellow the flaws in your job history.

PRO TIP:

Tailor the resume to the position you are seeking. As you read through the job description, highlight and focus on key words and phrases that are most important to the hiring team. Integrate those words and phrases into your resume.

Debi

Debi Douma-Herren
HR Consultant & Career Strategist
LinkedIn

The 3 most popular resume formats are:

  • Chronological resume organizes the information the way LinkedIn does – from the latest position to the first one, with education, interests and additional info listed later.
  • Functional resume keeps the focus on your skills and experience, rather than employment history. It’s the go-to choice for candidates with employment gaps and those without much hands-on work experience.
  • Combination resume takes the best of both worlds and allows you to spice up your “dry” employment history with some juicy details about your skill set and achievements.  

Each resume format suits better when applying for certain positions. Chronological resumes tend to be the most preferable format with traditional employers, while startups and edgier companies will likely fall for a combination resume.

To learn more about styling your resume, check out our detailed guide to resume formats with tips and detailed explanations.

How to Write a Resume

Now that you have an awesome resume template, you don’t need to stare at a blank page. All you need to do is “fill in the gaps” in that template. But considering how important a resume is, you may be completely at lost what information to put and how to format it.

For this, we wrote a very detailed guide explaining all the facets of writing, styling and formatting your resume. Below you’ll find a quick recap to help you get started with resume writing.

how to write a resume that works

Every resume should include the next key sections:

  • Header: list your contact information and add a headshot (if you opted for a template featuring a photo).
  • Professional title
  • Quick resume summary/objective or career statement. This can be also replaced with a professional bio or “About me”.
  • Work Experience
  • Skills
  • Education
  • Optional: hobbies, interests, languages, volunteering experience.

Start with brainstorming a compelling resume objective – a quick paragraph communicating your career narrative and summarizing your goals. To create a quick one, just apply the following formula:

Education or Experience + Skill + Goal

Family lawyer with ten years of trial experiences, specializing in child custody and estate probate cases, looking for a senior partner position in a legal company.

Organize your work experience. List your employers in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include employment date, job title, company name and key responsibilities/achievements listed in bullet format.

Sprinkle in your skills. Include general industry skills (you can find those in the job posting), tools and technology you are familiar with, certifications, a few general personal skills.

Wrap it up with education. Unless you are a recent graduate, don’t dwell on this section too much. Simply list all your degrees (highest to lowest), the name of your educational institution and graduation date.

Still feeling stuck with a blank page and can’t get your thoughts together? Consider reading a few resume examples to get a better grip of what a stellar application looks like.

MS Word

Here is the most popular collection of simple resume format in word (.doc) file format. This collection includes basic, classic, creative, modern and simple professional curriculum vitae/CV, resume and cover letter templates with an instant free download option. All these modern cv templates with word format have a modern layout structure designed by professional designers around the globe. These are very easy and simple to customize or edit by just following a few simple steps which are in the documentation. You can also check out our other collection of Free InDesign Resume Templates, Free Indesign Resume Templates, and Free Photoshop Resume Templates.

Choose a CV template from our collection of 229 professional designs in Microsoft Word format (with CV writing advice)

Updated: 17th April 2021 | By: Jen Wiss

In a competitive job market, we know that starting from scratch and creating the perfect CV is a tough task. That’s why we’ve put together this CV library of 229 best free CV and resume templates in Microsoft Word format to help you.

No need to use a CV builder: each of our professional editable templates is an easy-to-use document, and these free CV samples have placeholder information to inspire you when writing your own curriculum vitae, whether for a part time or full time role. Choose a basic CV, an ATS-friendly template or opt for a more creative design, depending on your target job role. Each example also has a PDF version, so you can check the layout.

Alongside our CV examples, we’ve also included plenty of advice for job applicants on writing a winning CV that will increase your chances of getting a job interview. In our CV writing guidance, we cover what to include in each section, and how to make your UK CV stand out from the crowd. We also answer your FAQS.

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These free professional CV templates have been professionally designed by our team in the UK in Microsoft Word format to boost your chances of success. They are free Word CV templates to download for your personal use in finding a job. You can find our terms of use here. If you find a template that you like, we’d appreciate a review or a ‘Facebook Like’ and we’d absolutely love it if you shared this page!

Latest CV templates:

Account manager CV (template + example content)

A simple, modern crisp CV template layout with sample information for an Account Manager. Bold black headings with a focus on skills and achievements.

Labourer CV template (with UK sample information)

This simple, elegant template has sample information for a Construction or General Labourer in the UK. It is a clean, two-page ATS-friendly template in Microsoft Word format.

Shop assistant CV (free template)

A free, two-page simple CV for a Shop Assistant or similar retail role, with example content. This sample ATS-friendly CV could be adapted for a wide range of roles.

Library Assistant CV

#226: Download this simple, ATS-friendly CV with sample information for a Library Assistant. Easy to adapt from two pages to one page if required.

Security guard CV template (with example information)

Our smart security guard CV or resume template features a black border, dividng lines, letter spacing and sample information for a security officer role.

Recruitment consultant CV example: ATS-friendly template

A professional recruitment consultant CV. Neat grey dividing lines and an easy-to-read font with example information to ensure you include the right sections in the right order.

Example of a good CV (with free CV template in Word)

A neat and tidy example of a good CV or résumé that uses the attractive Letter Gothic Std font and subtle lilac details for emphasis. Subtle dotted border and attractive headings. Sample information for a Childcare Practitioner.

HGV driver CV

This very smart modern CV or résumé template uses simple Times New Roman font for the text and highlights in a soft shade of green for a retro twist. An otherwise simple layout that presents your info neatly.

Nursery nurse CV  template

Our nursery nurse CV or résumé is fun and laid back, perfect for less formal roles such as entertainment or working with children – it uses a gorgeous bright cheerful theme.

CV for 16 year old : free ‘Sections’ template (Microsoft Word format)

A simple, delightful model CV for a 16 year old using the Garamond font which features smart sections and attractive navy headings. Slick & neat, your info is easy for prospective employers to skim through.

Law CV example: Microsoft Word template (downloadable)

This two page Law CV example has a classic, simple layout that is clutter-free and ATS-friendly. It uses styled headings and spacing to effectively present your information in an attractive and easy-to-follow format.

Lawyer CV template: Microsoft Word ATS-friendly UK layout + guide

A two-page easy-to-edit free CV template with example content for a UK lawyer. Microsoft Word format, Times New Roman and ATS-compliant, this is a great format for a multitude of job roles.

HR CV template

A beautiful ATS-friendly HR CV with example content for a manager (also covering other HR roles). A lovely eye-catching design that’s easy to edit. One of our best templates.

Administration CV example: free MS Word template

A smart modern Administrative CV example template that’s hot off the press! This beige themed template features an attractive double border and taupe-coloured headings to divide up the sections for your information.

Manager CV: free two-page professional CV template in MS Word format

Our Steps model CV template uses an eye-catching original staggered layout to present information to employer. It is very easy to edit & customise, and further sections or space can be added to meet your own needs.

Kitchen porter CV : free Microsoft Word template to download

A neat template for a kitchen porter or kitchen assistant with selected highlights using shaded backgrounds, that allows you to convey lots of information in just a page or two. The simple format is attractive and spacious.

Retail assistant CV template in Word (free download)

Our Retail Assistant CV template with a “Blue Stripes” design in Microsoft Word has some very subtle styling details that make for a beautiful design. Clean, simple and ATS-friendly, it’s a great choice for a host of roles.

Mum returning to work CV example : free one-page CV template in Word

A one-page 2-column CV template in Microsoft Word. Smart, fresh and modern, it’s a great layout for catching an employer’s eye. Sample information for a Mum returning to work, targeting a secretarial, administrative or book-keeping role.

Care support worker CV template with classic border (MS Word)

A very attractive care support worker CV example with a classic thin border and the Garamond font throughout. A smart and professional-looking template with a well-spaced layout in an ATS-safe format.

Health care assistant CV : ATS-friendly Microsoft Word template

A neat health care assistant CV template using Arial with burgundy headers & a double border. Shading adds interesting detail to this professional template which is free to download for personal use.

Cleaner CV template in Microsoft Word (free download)

Our fresh cleaner CV includes example content for a cleaner role. This lovely, smart sample CV has bold blue headings with plenty of space, making it easy-to-read. It is ATS-friendly & works for a variety of roles.

Chef CV template: free example Chef CV in Word

This Chef CV template has a fresh, simple design with a subtle splash of colour. Created with example content to help you write your own CV, covering various types of roles and experience that a UK chef might have.

Architecture CV template: Microsoft Word ‘Statement piece’ design (free download)

Our ‘Statement Piece’ Architecture CV template has a classic look that’s all about catching your employer’s attention, with a subtle border, big, bold headings, section dividers and a traditional font.

Project manager CV example – ‘Apple accents’ template

A smart fresh project manager CV template with apple green accents that makes use of the classic Lucida Bright font. The well-designed ATS-friendly layout is the perfect CV example for a whole host of industries and roles.

Free one page CV : centre-aligned, with classic font

#205: Easy-to-edit & remove sections, this one page CV template is highly versatile. Sample information for a solicitor, lawyer or attorney.

Professional CV template: ‘Cornered’ design, in Word format

#204: This simple yet striking CV uses the classic Garamond font & an attractive soft-blue border to help your application stand out from the pile. ATS-proof with sample content for a secretary/administrator.

Free ATS CV : Word CV template using Arial Narrow font

This smart two-page ATS CV template uses Arial Narrow font with some extra spacing to ensure it looks absolutely fantastic, Spacious and modern, it makes a great impression. Sample information for a Business Manager.

ATS friendly CV template in Microsoft Word format – ‘Classic’

#202: This attractive ATS friendly CV template uses clever paragraph formatting to create a smart layout whilst minimising ATS parsing issues. Easy to edit down to one page if required. Sample information for a lawyer.

ATS compliant CV template : professional ‘Highlight’ design in MS Word

Unlike many templates you’ll find, this ATS compliant CV shows some real design flair without introducing elements that may confuse the system. Soft shading helps to divide up your information effectively. Sample information for an SEO Consultant.

ATS-proof CV: simple template in Word format (Legal Secretary example content)

#200: The subtle style details in this ATS proof CV won’t interfere with applicant tracking system software, so you don’t need to compromise on style. The sample content is helpful for aspiring legal secretaries.

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CV writing guide

There are many possible layouts and formats when creating your curriculum vitae. On this page we discuss the format of a CV generally before looking at the CV format that is expected by employers in the UK. Our step-by-step guide walks you through creating each section of your CV. For each part, we explain what information is required to write a great CV and how it should be laid out.

There are three main types of C V format:

  1. Reverse chronological
  2. Functional (or ‘skills based)
  3. Combination

The most common format for CV writing used in the UK is reverse chronological.

1. Reverse Chronological

Contents of a reverse chronological CV:

  1. Name and professional title
  2. Contact details
  3. Personal statement
  4. Work experience (majority of content)
  5. Education
  6. Skills
  7. Additional curriculum vitae sections (if applicable)
  8. References

Note that the work experience section is listed in reverse chronological order (most recent first).

«This type of structure makes it easy for employers to identify potential candidates. It allows you to provide clear details of your qualifications, work history and responsibilities, which match the criteria provided in the job description.» ~ Prospects.ac.uk.

Here is an example of the Reverse Chronological CV format:
CV - reverse chronological format
This example Recruitment Consultant CV format is free and can be downloaded here.

2. Functional (skills based)

Contents of a functional (skills based) CV:

  1. Name and professional title
  2. Contact Information
  3. Personal statement
  4. Skills (majority of content)
  5. Work Experience
  6. Education
  7. Additional sections (if applicable)
  8. References

This format of CV places a lot of focus on the skills that are most relevant to the role applied for. The skills section appears after the personal statement rather than towards the end of the CV. It is typically much longer than would be included in a reverse chronological CV.

A functional C.V format is mainly used by two types of candidate:

  1. Candidates with little formal work experience. In this case, the skills section may even be larger than the work experience section.
  2. Candidates applying to roles where skills are more important than work experience. In this case, the candidate will want to draw the skills to the attention of the employer first.

Here is an example of a functional CV format:
Functional skills based CV format - page one

This example CV format is free and can be downloaded here.

3. Combination

A combination CV is as it sounds: it combines the reverse chronological and functional CV formats, placing equal emphasis on both skills and experience. The layout for this type of CV is more flexible and can be adapted to the job position. So, if you want to put your work experience first, that’s fine. If you’d rather put skills first, that’s fine too.

The difference between this curriculum vitae format and the reverse chronological format is that with this format, the skills and work experience section could be the same size. With the reverse chronological format, the skills section would be much smaller.

As the combination format puts emphasis on both work experience and skills, there may be less room for other sections such as interests.

Contents of a combination CV:

  1. Name and professional title
  2. Contact Information
  3. Personal statement
  4. Work Experience (major focus)
  5. Skills (major focus)
  6. Education
  7. Additional sections (if applicable)
  8. References

Here is an example of a combination CV format:
Combination CV format - page one
This example CV format is free and can be downloaded here.

CV content: what to include on your curriculum vitae

Every CV needs to have a few core sections — and there are some optional ones too. Here’s what a UK employer will always expect to see on your CV:

  • Name
  • Contact details (address, phone number and email address)
  • Social profiles (these can be used to elaborate on your work history and add credibility — see our article ‘Building a killer LinkedIn profile to complement your CV‘)
  • Work experience (reverse chronological, i.e., most recent first)
  • Education
  • References

These sections are always expected on your CV and the above order is typical. However, there are some other sections that we recommend you include to make more of an impact. These are:

  • Personal statement (sometimes called a profile or career objective). This section typically goes after your contact details.
  • Skills (both hard and soft). This section typically goes either after your personal statement (for CVs that are more skills focused) or after your education (for CVs that are more experience focused).
  • Hobbies and interests. This section typically goes before your references.

Finally, there are some sections which you might like to include where they are relevant to you. These are:

  • Memberships (of professional industry-relevant organisations)
  • Awards
  • Achievements
  • Publications

These sections would typically appear before the hobbies and interests section.

You can also find out more about what goes into each of these sections together with the different CV layout and format options in these guides:

    CV writing guides:

  • How to write a CV: a step-by-step guide to writing each section of your CV.
  • CV layout masterclass: a complete guide to your CV layout options, with lots of advice to help you avoid some common layout mistakes.
  • How to write a winning cover letter — what to include.

Featured:

Featured careers:

Each of our featured careers sections includes a library of CV templates with a good CV format and example content for that career, plus a comprehensive industry-specific ‘how to write a CV’ guide.

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Did our CV library help you out today? We would love it if you could rate us. You can also rate individual templates on their download pages.

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