Frequently asked questions
The things people ask us most about building, downloading and keeping a CV.
Is ApplyRaft really free?
Yes. Every template and every feature is free, with no ads, no paywall and no card details asked for. You can build, preview and download as many CVs as you like.
Do I need to sign up to use it?
No. You can build a CV, change its look and download it as a PDF or a Word file without an account. A CV built without an account is kept for 7 days and then deleted, so sign up if you want to save it and come back to edit it later.
Will my CV have a watermark?
Never. Every download is clean: no ApplyRaft logo, watermark or footer, in the PDF or the Word file.
Are the templates ATS-friendly?
Many employers, especially larger ones, put every CV through screening software (an applicant tracking system, or ATS) before a person reads it. The software copies your details into its own database, so it needs a layout it can read in order: standard headings, plain text, and no words hidden inside pictures.
Templates marked ATS-friendly are built that way, and every template page tells you in plain words how reliably it is read. If you are applying through a job board or a large company's website, pick an ATS-friendly template. If a person will read your CV directly, any template is fine.
Can I edit my CV after I download it?
Yes. Sign in and your CVs are saved to your account, so you can edit them, make a copy for a different job, or download a new version at any time.
How do I share my CV with someone without sending a PDF?
Once your CV is saved, choose Share on your dashboard. You get a clean public link, and you can set an expiry date so it stops working when you want it to.
What languages do you support?
Any. The builder accepts any text, including Arabic, Chinese, Hindi and Urdu, and there is a right-to-left switch for scripts that need it. Some scripts render best in the DejaVu font option in the PDF.
Can I import my LinkedIn profile?
Yes. Export your LinkedIn profile as a PDF, sign in, and use Import from LinkedIn PDF on step 2 of the builder. We fill in your details and you check them over.
Will you sell my data?
No. We do not sell or share your data with anyone. See our privacy policy for the details.
How can I support ApplyRaft?
Tell a friend who is job hunting, or share us where you talk about work. That is what keeps the site free for everyone.
Not covered here? Send us a message and a person will reply.