Free Resume Templates for 2026

Zety offers several ways to access free resume templates:

• Free downloadable templates: On our template grid at the top of this page, you’ll find templates labeled “Free.” You can also find them using our filters. Download them instantly in PDF or DOCX format—no signup required. They’re modern, professional, and fully ATS-friendly.
• More free options in the builder: You can also use any of our templates on the builder. Create your resume, fill in your details, and download the written content for free in TXT format to edit in any word processor.

If you prefer to download your resume as a PDF or Word doc file, you’ll need a paid plan starting at $1.95 (with a 14-day money-back guarantee). Paid plans also unlock access to more features and all our premium designs.

The best resume template in 2026 should be:

• Professional: Clean, modern design that reflects your industry and role
• ATS-friendly: Optimized to pass applicant tracking systems so your resume reaches real recruiters
• Easy to read: Uses clear headings, logical structure, and reverse-chronological order to showcase your experience and skills

Zety offers a wide variety of templates for resumes that check all these boxes. Whether you’re just starting your career or applying for senior-level roles, our resume templates are designed to help you succeed.

Zety resume templates are expertly designed to help you create standout resumes quickly and easily. Whether you’re applying for your first job or a senior role, our templates are tailored to fit any industry and career level, so you can land more interviews, faster.

Here’s what makes Zety different:

• Professional resume templates: Professional designs for any industry and career level
• Resume & CV maker: Step-by-step guidance, real-time suggestions, and ready-made content tailored to your job title
• Matching Cover Letter Builder: Time-saving templates and auto-generated text that perfectly complements your resume
• ATS-friendly designs: Ensures your resume passes applicant tracking systems and reaches real recruiters
• Instant resume feedback: Real-time scoring with actionable tips and content suggestions to improve your application
• Flexible resume template download options: Export your resume in PDF, Word, or TXT formats
• Old resume makeover: Upload your old resume to get it modernized automatically
• Cloud storage & easy edits: Save, duplicate, or tweak resumes for different jobs anytime, anywhere
• Trusted by many: Over 11,000 Trustpilot reviews from professionals worldwide

Using a resume template is often the smarter choice. While you can create your own resume in Word or Google Docs, it requires a strong understanding of complex resume formatting rules, including ATS compatibility, font choices, margins, layout structure, and more.

Even small mistakes in your resume design can make it look unprofessional or result in rejection by applicant tracking systems.

A professionally designed resume template eliminates these risks. It saves you hours of tweaking, ensures ATS compatibility, and helps your application look polished and job-ready.

Absolutely! Every Zety resume template works perfectly for job seekers with no experience. Whether you’re creating a student resume or an entry-level resume, you can choose from 18 professionally designed template layouts for different junior applications.

And if you use Zety’s resume builder, you’ll even get ready-made content to add to your template.

Writing a resume with a template is simple. Just follow these steps:

• Choose a template: Pick a design that fits your industry, role, and personal style.
• Add your contact information: Make sure it’s complete and easy for recruiters to reach you.
• Fill in your work experience: Include your job titles, companies, dates, and key achievements.
• Highlight your skills: List relevant technical and soft skills for the role.
• Include education and certifications: Show your qualifications and ongoing professional development.
• Tailor it for each application: Adjust your content to match the job description and make your resume stand out.
• Download or share: Export your resume in PDF, Word, or TXT formats when you’re ready to apply.

💡 Using a template ensures your resume looks professional, ATS-friendly, and polished—without hours of formatting work.

Zety’s website and application are 100% free to use. The app follows the “try before you buy” approach—you only pay when you’re satisfied with the results.
Downloading a printable resume, CV, or cover letter as a PDF or Word document is only available with a paid plan, starting at just $1.95, with a 14-day money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with the service.

You can also download your resume, CV, or cover letter content as a TXT file for free at any time. Learn more about our pricing on the pricing page.

Yes, Zety is a legit business. You can check it out on the About Zety page.

Every year, our resume maker, guides, and examples help millions of job seekers worldwide find their dream jobs. The website and application are safe thanks to a secure SSL HTTPS-encrypted connection. Your personal data is processed in accordance with our stringent policies, which you can learn more about in our terms of use, privacy policy, and cookie policy.

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From solving problems you might face to managing your subscription, we are here to help. Visit our contact page to see when our call center is open, send us a message, or chat with us. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

When looking for new job opportunities, you need to be on the lookout for potential scams. The best way to protect yourself is by staying alert and informed.

Scammers often disguise themselves as employers, recruiters, or headhunters, trying to take advantage of job seekers. In our fraud awareness guide, we explain how to keep your job search secure and spot the red flags of job scams.