Can Canva Resume Pass ATS?

Canva is a popular online design tool that allows users to create stunning resumes with ease. With its user-friendly interface and a wide range of pre-designed templates, Canva has become a go-to platform for many job seekers. However, when it comes to submitting your resume online, there is one important question that arises - can a Canva resume pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

The Role of ATS in Resume Screening

Before we dive into the specific question about Canva resumes, let's understand the role of an ATS in the hiring process. An ATS is a software used by employers to manage and streamline their recruitment efforts. It helps them filter through the large volume of resumes received for each job opening and identify the most qualified candidates.

ATS systems use algorithms to scan resumes and extract relevant information such as skills, work experience, and education. This automated process saves time for recruiters, but it also poses a challenge for job seekers who need to ensure their resumes are formatted in a way that can be easily parsed by these systems.

The Compatibility of Canva Resumes with ATS

Now let's address the burning question - can a Canva resume pass through an ATS? The answer is yes, but with some caveats.

Formatting: When using Canva to create your resume, it's crucial to pay attention to the formatting. Stick to standard fonts (such as Arial or Times New Roman) and avoid using excessive colors or images that could confuse the scanning software. Keep your layout clean and organized so that the ATS can easily read and extract information from your resume.

Keywords: Another important factor in passing through an ATS is using relevant keywords throughout your resume. Research job descriptions for your desired role and incorporate industry-specific terms that align with your skills and experience. This will not only help your resume get noticed by recruiters but also increase its chances of passing through the ATS.

File Format: Canva allows you to download your resume in various file formats, including PDF and Word. It's generally recommended to save your resume as a PDF to maintain its formatting across different devices and operating systems. However, some ATS systems have difficulty parsing PDF files, so it's wise to have a plain text version of your resume ready as well.

Tips for Optimizing Your Canva Resume

Now that you know the basics, here are some additional tips to optimize your Canva resume for ATS:

• Use Proper Headings: Use subheaders (e.g.,

  ) to categorize different sections of your resume, such as "Education," "Work Experience," and "Skills." This helps the ATS identify and categorize information accurately.

• Bold Important Text: Use the tag to highlight key achievements or skills within each section. This draws attention to crucial information that the ATS should not overlook.
• Underline Hyperlinks: If you include hyperlinks in your resume (e., links to your portfolio or LinkedIn profile), use the tag to underline them. This makes it easier for both humans and machines to spot clickable links.