CV & resume checker
Check that your CV can be read by hiring software: text, contact details, sections and layout.
Select a PDF file
or drop them anywhere on this page
Processed on your device. Never uploaded.
Checking your CV…
Processing on your device. Nothing is uploaded.
Add your files
Choose or drop a file from your device.
Adjust the options
Set the options in the side panel, or keep the defaults.
Download the result
Save it, or send it straight on to another PaperWingPDF tool.
The CV & resume checker reads your CV the way applicant tracking systems (ATS) do and tells you what could stop it being read: no selectable text, missing contact details, unusual section names, two-column layouts, icon fonts or too many pages. It runs in your browser, so your CV is never uploaded.
How to check your CV for hiring software
- Choose or drop your CV as a PDF.
- Click Check my CV.
- Read your score and the list of checks: Good, Improve or Fix, each with a suggestion.
- Fix the items in your CV, save it as a PDF again and check once more.
About CV & resume checker
Many companies use applicant tracking systems to read CVs before a person does. These systems read the text layer of the PDF from top to bottom. If your CV is a scanned picture, uses icons instead of words, or splits information into two columns, important details such as your email address or job titles can be missed or mixed up.
The checker looks at the same text layer and checks the basics recruiters and software expect: selectable text, an email address and phone number, standard Experience, Education and Skills headings, a single-column layout, readable text size, length, file size and a clear file name. Section names are recognised in English, Arabic, Urdu, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Turkish, Russian, Indonesian, Hindi and Chinese.
It can’t judge how well your CV is written or whether it matches a particular job; it makes sure the software can read what you wrote.
When to use it
- Before applying onlineCatch problems before a job portal reads your CV.
- After using a templateFancy templates often use two columns and icons that software reads badly.
- Students and graduatesCheck a first CV before careers fairs and internship applications.
- Careers advisersCheck CVs privately, without uploading anyone’s personal details.
Why PaperWingPDF
- Private by design
- No queues, no waiting
- Chain your tools
- Works offline, installs as an app
Frequently asked questions
What is an ATS?
An applicant tracking system is software that companies use to collect and filter job applications. It reads the text of your CV to find your contact details, experience, education and skills.
Is a two-column CV bad?
Not always, but some systems read straight across both columns and mix up your details. A single column is the safest choice when you apply online.
Why does my scanned CV fail?
A scan is a picture of text, so software can’t read the words. Save your CV from Word or Google Docs as a PDF instead, or run OCR PDF on the scan.
Is my CV stored anywhere?
No. The check runs in your browser and your CV never leaves your device.
Is CV & resume checker free?
Yes. CV & resume checker is free to use, with no sign-up, no watermark and no daily limit.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. PaperWingPDF processes your files inside your browser, on your own device. They are never uploaded, and they are cleared from memory when you close the tab.
Does it work on my phone?
Yes. PaperWingPDF works in any modern browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iPhone, with nothing to install.
Is there a file size limit?
Each file can be up to 300 MB. Very large files depend on your device's memory, so a computer handles them faster than a phone.