Fresh Graduate CV Template
An entry-level CV template designed for recent graduates and students entering the job market for the first time.
Template Features
- ATS-Friendly
- Simple Design
- Entry Level
- Education Focus
Perfect For
- Recent graduates
- Students
- Entry-level positions
- Career changers
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About This Template
The Fresh Graduate CV template is specifically designed for candidates entering the workforce for the first time or with minimal professional experience. Rather than exposing gaps, this template strategically emphasises education, academic projects, internships, volunteer work, and transferable skills developed through university activities. The layout is intentionally single-page to match employer expectations for entry-level candidates, with generous spacing that prevents the CV from looking empty while maintaining a professional appearance. It is suitable for recent university graduates, final-year students applying for graduate programmes, career changers returning to education, and anyone transitioning into a new field. The template guides you to present what you do have compellingly, rather than drawing attention to experience you have not yet gained.
Why Use This Template
Education-first layout that highlights degrees, relevant coursework, and academic achievements
Structured sections for internships, projects, and volunteer work that demonstrate professional potential
Single-page format with balanced spacing that looks professional without requiring extensive content
Transferable skills section that connects university activities to workplace competencies
How to Customise This Template
- 1
Place your education section before experience — your degree, dissertation topic, and relevant modules are your strongest assets at this stage.
- 2
Transform university projects into professional-sounding achievements: 'Led a team of 4 to develop a market analysis report for [Company] as part of Business Strategy module'.
- 3
Include part-time jobs, even if unrelated to your target career — they demonstrate reliability, customer service skills, and work ethic.
- 4
Add a 'Key Skills' section that maps your capabilities to the job requirements: communication, analytical thinking, teamwork, digital literacy.
Industry-Specific Advice
Graduate employers know you lack extensive experience — they are hiring for potential, attitude, and foundational skills. Graduate schemes at major corporations value leadership potential demonstrated through societies, sports teams, or student unions. Startups look for initiative and adaptability — highlight any entrepreneurial projects or self-directed learning. Public sector graduate programmes emphasise analytical skills and policy awareness. For competitive graduate roles, your CV must clearly show why you chose this industry and what relevant preparation you have done beyond your degree.
Formatting & Presentation Guide
Strictly one page. Use 11pt font with 0.8-inch margins to maximise space without cramping. Place your name and contact details at the top — no need for a photo. Include your LinkedIn profile URL and ensure it is complete and professional. Do not include your date of birth, marital status, or secondary school qualifications unless specifically requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include my A-level or GCSE grades?
Only if you are a very recent graduate (within 1 year) and the grades are strong. Once you have degree-level qualifications and any work experience, secondary school results become less relevant.
How do I fill a whole page without much experience?
Include academic projects, dissertation summary, relevant coursework, internships, volunteer work, society memberships, part-time jobs, and a skills section. Quality descriptions matter more than quantity of roles.
Should I use a different CV for each application?
Yes. Tailor your personal statement and skills section for each role. Use keywords from the job description. Even small adjustments significantly improve your chances of passing ATS screening and catching a recruiter's attention.
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