An ATS score estimates how well your resume can be read by an applicant tracking system and how closely it matches a specific job. Scores are usually out of 100. In practice, 75+ is a strong match for that role, 60–74 needs work, and below 60 is likely being filtered out.
What an ATS actually checks
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software that reads, stores and ranks the resumes employers receive. Before a recruiter sees you, the ATS tries to parse your file and match it to the job. An ATS score is an estimate of how well that goes — not an official number any single employer publishes.
- Parsing: can the system read your name, contact details, sections and dates correctly?
- Keyword match: do the skills and phrases in the job description appear in your resume?
- Structure: are there standard headings like Experience, Education and Skills?
- Impact: do your bullet points show results and numbers, or only duties?
What is a good ATS score?
Treat the score as a readiness guide, not a guarantee. A resume above 75 for a specific role is usually in good shape. Between 60 and 74 it is readable but not well matched — targeted keyword and impact fixes move this quickly. Below 60, the system is probably missing key information.
How to improve it without keyword stuffing
- Match the job: mirror the exact skills and tools named in the job description, where they are genuinely true for you.
- Lead with results: turn duties into outcomes with numbers (“cut reporting time by 6 hours a week”).
- Keep the layout clean: avoid tables, text boxes, columns and images, which many systems cannot read.
- Use standard headings and a common file type (PDF or .docx).
Chasing 100 often backfires — stuffing keywords makes a resume read badly for the human who sees it next. Aim for a strong, natural match.