When applying for jobs online, especially through large platforms or corporate websites, it's increasingly likely your resume is first reviewed by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These systems are used by employers to automatically filter, rank, and sort candidates' resumes before a human even sees them. Your resume is scored, usually on a scale of 0 to 100, based on how closely it matches the job description. But what does it mean to have a score of 72? Is that a strong number, or is there room for improvement?
Understanding ATS Scores
ATS scores are numerical indicators of how well your resume aligns with a specific job listing. While different software might vary in methods, the following factors are typically used to calculate the score:
- Keyword matching – How many keywords from the job description are present in your resume?
- Relevant experience – Do you have the required years and type of experience?
- Skills and certifications – Are your listed skills in alignment with the position?
- Format compliance – Is your resume formatted in a simple way that the software can read?
Once these factors are analyzed, your application is ranked with a score. Most outputs are on a 0–100 scale, where higher is better. But let’s break down what different score ranges typically indicate.
Is a 72 a Good Score?
In general, a score of 72 out of 100 is considered decent. It means your resume is performing above average in alignment with the job description, but it may not be quite strong enough to guarantee that it passes the initial screening in a competitive field.
Score Ranges and What They Mean
- 0–49: Poor match. Your resume doesn’t reflect the job description well and is unlikely to get noticed.
- 50–69: Fair. You're close, but probably missing key elements the employer wants.
- 70–84: Good. You're hitting most of the right points but can still be optimized for a better chance at an interview.
- 85–100: Excellent. Your resume is a strong match and stands a good chance of getting through the ATS.
So, a 72 generally puts you at the beginning of the “Good” category. It’s a sign that your resume is on the right track, but there is likely still room to improve that could make a difference in getting contacted by a recruiter or hiring manager.
Ways to Improve Your ATS Score
If you currently have a 72 and are wondering how to push it above 85, consider the following strategies:
- Read the job description carefully and identify key phrases and skills. Incorporate them naturally into your resume.
- Tweak your job titles if necessary so they align with the industry norm, without being deceptive.
- Focus on accomplishments and metrics that match what the company is seeking.
- Use a clean, ATS-friendly format. Avoid tables, graphics, or overly complex layouts.
It's also a good idea to run your resume through an online ATS checker tool, which can point out additional suggestions for improvement in areas like keyword density and formatting issues.
Why Even a High Score Isn’t Everything
While an ATS score is an important early filter in the job application process, it’s not the only factor that determines whether you get an interview. Human recruiters will eventually review top candidates, and at that stage, the clarity, tone, and structure of your resume come into play. A high score gets you noticed; a well-written resume gets you the callback.
Conclusion
A score of 72 is certainly not bad, and in many industries or job markets, it may be enough to get you past the ATS. However, the competition can be fierce, and pushing your score into the 80s or 90s can give you a significant advantage. Think of 72 as a solid starting point—good enough to feel encouraged, but not quite the finish line.
Optimizing your resume for ATS is both a science and an art, and minor adjustments can result in major improvements. With a few strategic changes, that score can climb quickly, giving you better chances in today's automated hiring landscape.