Entry-Level Resume Format: Free Templates & Guide
Starting your career? Learn how to format an entry-level resume that highlights your potential, even without extensive work experience.
Best Resume Format for Entry-Level Positions
For entry-level positions, the functional resume format or a combination format works best. These formats allow you to emphasize your skills, education, and potential rather than limited work experience.
Key Strategies for Entry-Level Resumes:
- ✓ Emphasize education and relevant coursework
- ✓ Highlight transferable skills
- ✓ Include internships, volunteer work, and projects
- ✓ Show enthusiasm and willingness to learn
What to Include in an Entry-Level Resume
1. Strong Professional Summary
Write a compelling summary that:
- • Highlights your key skills and qualifications
- • Shows enthusiasm for the role
- • Mentions relevant education or training
- • Demonstrates eagerness to learn and grow
2. Education Section
Make education prominent:
- • Degree and major
- • University name
- • Graduation date
- • GPA (if 3.5+)
- • Relevant coursework
- • Academic achievements
3. Skills Section
Group skills by category:
- • Technical skills (software, tools, languages)
- • Soft skills (communication, teamwork, problem-solving)
- • Industry-specific skills
4. Experience Section
Include any relevant experience:
- • Internships (even unpaid ones)
- • Part-time jobs
- • Volunteer positions
- • Freelance work
- • School projects
Entry-Level Resume Tips
Focus on achievements: Even in entry-level roles, highlight what you accomplished, not just what you did.
Use keywords: Include keywords from the job description to pass ATS systems.
Show initiative: Highlight projects, volunteer work, or self-directed learning that shows initiative.
Keep it concise: One page is usually sufficient for entry-level resumes.
Customize for each job: Tailor your resume to match each job description.
Download Free Entry-Level Resume Templates
Get started with our free entry-level resume templates designed for job seekers starting their careers.
Entry-Level Template 1
Entry-Level Template 1
Perfect for first jobs
Entry-Level Template 2
Entry-Level Template 2
Perfect for first jobs
Entry-Level Template 3
Entry-Level Template 3
Perfect for first jobs