University Application Graduate CV Template and Example
A strong University Application Graduate CV proves you can handle high volumes of applications accurately while supporting applicants through the process. It should highlight your experience with UCAS, student record systems, and data reporting, plus any direct work with applicants. Quantify your results to show impact.
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University Application Graduate CV example (Professional template)
A full-page example built for this role. Use it as a structure reference — replace every line with your own experience.
Skills hiring managers look for in a University Application Graduate
- UCAS Apply and UCAS Hub
- SITS student record system
- Personal statement review
- Interview coordination
- CRM data management
- Applicant enquiry handling
- Data reporting and dashboards
- Widening participation outreach
- GDPR compliance
- Event planning
- Stakeholder communication
- Microsoft Office 365
What to include in a University Application Graduate CV
Hiring managers in university admissions look for evidence that you understand the application lifecycle, from enquiry through to enrolment. Your CV should include a professional summary, a skills section listing relevant systems and processes, and experience entries that show you have handled applications, supported applicants, and worked with data.
Include your education, any relevant certifications such as GDPR training or a teaching award, and projects that demonstrate your ability to improve processes or support widening participation. Languages can be useful if you work with international applicants.
How to write experience bullets for this role
Each bullet should describe a specific action you took and the measurable result. Avoid generic statements like 'processed applications' without context. Instead, state the volume, the system used, and the outcome.
For example, instead of 'handled enquiries', write 'Responded to 80+ applicant enquiries per week via email, phone, and live chat, achieving a 96% satisfaction score.' This shows scale, method, and impact. Use numbers wherever possible: number of applications, conversion rates, accuracy percentages, time saved, or satisfaction scores.
Skills hiring managers scan for
University admissions teams rely on specific tools and processes. Your CV should mention UCAS Apply and UCAS Hub, student record systems like SITS or Banner, and CRM platforms such as Salesforce. Experience with data reporting tools like Excel or Power BI is highly valued.
Beyond technical skills, hiring managers look for communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure during peak cycles. Experience in widening participation or outreach is a plus, as universities have targets for underrepresented groups. GDPR knowledge is essential because you will handle sensitive applicant data.
Common mistakes in University Application Graduate CVs
One common mistake is listing duties without results. Saying you 'assisted with admissions' does not tell the reader what you achieved. Another is failing to tailor the CV to the role: if the job description mentions UCAS, SITS, or specific outreach work, your CV should reflect that.
Avoid vague skills like 'good communication' without evidence. Instead, show communication through bullets about workshops, enquiries, or stakeholder work. Also, do not omit dates or use inconsistent formatting, as this can suggest a lack of attention to detail. Finally, check for typos: in a role that requires accuracy, errors on your CV are a red flag.
Formatting and length
For a mid-career applicant, two pages is acceptable, but one page is fine if your experience is limited. Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings. Put your professional summary at the top, followed by skills, experience, education, and certifications. Use reverse chronological order for experience and education.
Keep bullet points concise, starting with action verbs. Use a consistent font and avoid graphics that might not parse well in applicant tracking systems. Save as PDF unless the employer asks for Word.
University Application Graduate CV — frequently asked questions
What should a University Application Graduate CV include?
It should include a professional summary, a skills section with relevant systems like UCAS and SITS, experience entries that quantify your work with applications and applicants, education, and any certifications such as GDPR training. Projects and languages can also be included if relevant.
How do I write about admissions experience without direct admissions titles?
Focus on transferable tasks: data entry, customer service, event coordination, and reporting. For example, if you worked in a school office, you may have processed applications or maintained student records. Quantify those tasks and highlight the systems you used.
Do I need a cover letter for a University Application Graduate role?
Many universities ask for a cover letter or supporting statement. Use it to explain why you want to work in admissions and to provide context for your CV, such as a gap or a career change. Always follow the application instructions.
What are the most important skills for a University Application Graduate?
Accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high volumes of data are essential. Familiarity with UCAS and student record systems is highly desirable. Strong communication skills and a customer-service mindset are also key, as you will interact with applicants, parents, and faculty.
How long should my University Application Graduate CV be?
One to two pages is standard. If you have less than three years of experience, aim for one page. If you have more, two pages is acceptable. Focus on quality over quantity and ensure every bullet adds value.