- One page, projects first, clear results — that is what a junior tech CV needs.
- Every bullet should show what you built, with what, and what happened as a result.
- Tailor your CV to each role and keep the format simple enough for applicant tracking systems.
Software engineer CV format: the structure that works
For students and juniors, use this order:
- Name, role headline, email, phone, city, LinkedIn, GitHub
- Two-line summary of your target role and strongest skills
- Skills grouped by type (languages, frameworks, tools)
- Projects — your most important section
- Experience, internships or freelance work
- Education and relevant certifications
Write project bullets that prove skill
Use the pattern: built X using Y, which achieved Z. Compare:
- Weak: "Made a website for a library."
- Strong: "Built a library booking API with Spring Boot and PostgreSQL supporting sign-up, role-based access and double-booking prevention; 85% test coverage; deployed with Docker."
- Include a link to each project's repository or live demo
List skills honestly
Only list skills you could discuss in an interview. Group them clearly and put the most relevant first. Avoid rating bars or percentages — they mean nothing to recruiters and invite tough questions.
Make it an ATS-friendly CV that tracking systems can read
Many companies filter CVs automatically before a human sees them.
- Use a simple single-column layout and standard headings
- Save as PDF unless asked otherwise
- Use keywords from the job description where they honestly apply
- Avoid text inside images, tables for layout and unusual fonts
Tailor for each application
Keep a master CV with everything, then create a focused one-page version per role. Reorder projects and skills so the most relevant appear first. Ten minutes of tailoring can significantly improve your response rate.
Mistakes that get CVs rejected
- Two or more pages for a fresh graduate
- Spelling mistakes and inconsistent formatting
- Photos, date of birth or other personal details many employers do not need
- Objective statements full of buzzwords
- Listing responsibilities instead of results
Frequently asked questions
Should I include my CGPA?
Include it if it is strong or if the employer asks for it. Otherwise your projects can carry your application.
What if I have no experience?
Lead with projects, open-source contributions, hackathons and teaching or volunteering. These count as evidence of skill.
Do I need a cover letter?
Often a short, tailored message is enough. When a cover letter is requested, keep it to a few paragraphs focused on the role.
Written by Mubashar Hussain · Founder, TechCareerWay
Engineering leader with 20 years building banking and fintech software across 7 countries. Spotted an error or outdated advice? Tell us.