Free CV Templates to Download for the UK

CVs are no longer plain, black-and-white documents with raw data. I’m not surprised you want a free CV template that also reflects your personality.

I’ve prepared a list of the best free CV templates you can download easily and use for any job in the UK.

Create a CV that stands out without the stress. Simply choose a professional CV template, add your details, and personalise it with expert-approved content – all in just a few clicks.

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We created the sample on the left using our builder. See other good CV examples like this one.

Free CV templates for students

1. Black & pink (free)

A well-written CV matches the job profile, and this free Modern Writer CV from Google proves it perfectly.

• The typewriter font accentuates creativity 
• The pink-coloured entries add a modern twist to this free CV template

To access this free CV template, simply log in to your Google account and go to Google Docs Template Gallery.

2. Contemporary 4

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This Contemporary 4 template that LiveCareer CV builder offers reflects this idea pretty well, making a candidate’s name easily noticeable.

• Using a larger font size for your name is a good way to create a strong first impression
• I recommend using this CV template when creating your first job CV.
• This template is ideal for students as it makes a strong impression and is easy to read.

Test this CV template in LiveCareer CV builder without any cost; you’ll only pay if you want to download the finished CV.

3. Creative

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Another UK CV template for download comes from LiveCareer.

• Elegant header with a subtle square, clean typography, and small geometric elements make this Creative CV template appealing and notable.
• This CV template leaves you the freedom to apply it for different jobs, making it good for students exploring various career paths.

You can try out this CV template in the LiveCareer UK CV builder at no charge; a small fee applies for downloading your completed CV.

4. Classic 10

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This Classic 10 CV template will help you present your qualifications in a clean, focused format.

• Simple CV template from LiveCareer, inspired by classic typewriting 
• This template is well-suited for copywriters, content writers, and technical writers.

LiveCareer UK CV builder allows you to experiment with this CV template for free; a fee applies if you choose to download your CV.

5. Classic 5

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This simple Classic 5 CV template from LiveCareer focuses on presenting your qualifications, experiences, and skills in a clean and straightforward manner.

• Simple sans-serif font supports this minimalist design, while classy initials placed in the centre add a unique visual element to this b&w CV layout.
• This CV template for UK jobs will be helpful when preparing a CV for an electrician or an engineering CV, as they focus on the technical rather than the visual aspects.
• Its simplicity and clarity make it a good fit for students.

Creating your CV with this template is free; downloading it from LiveCareer UK CV builder requires a small charge.

Free CV templates for mid-level professionals

6. Serif (free)

The Serif template, named after serif fonts, is another simple CV layout from Google that limits embellishment to a minimum.

• It leaves white space between CV sections, improving readability.
• Simple, uncluttered appearance suits a medical professional’s CV well, especially with the blue accents frequently used in the healthcare industry.
• This free CV template is also good for mid-level professionals due to its professional yet straightforward design.

To access this free CV template, simply log in to your Google account and go to Google Docs Template Gallery.

7. Spearmint (free)

The Spearmint template is another creation of Google designers who advocate for simplicity and restraint in CV making.

• Vivid green colour recalls the feeling of freshness but also connotes calmness, development, or growth.
• Use it freely for an architect's or an industrial designer's CV.

To access this free CV template, simply log in to your Google account and go to Google Docs Template Gallery.

8. Coral (free)

The Coral template designed by Google is pretty straightforward, too.

• It catches attention with a combination of three different CV fonts and a distinctive coral tone used for section names.
• This free CV template with download is versatile, so you can adjust it to any mid-level profession.

To access this free CV template, simply log in to your Google account and go to Google Docs Template Gallery.

9. Modern 6

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Choosing an ATS-friendly template, like this Modern 6 CV template from LiveCareer, ensures that your CV is easily scannable and compatible with automated systems used by recruiters.

• It uses a standard font, clear headings, simple section titles, and basic line dividers. 
• This CV template for UK job applications can be used for various mid-level professionals thanks to its simplicity.

Test this CV template for free in LiveCareer UK CV builder; you’ll only pay if you want to get the finished CV.

10. Traditional

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This Traditional CV template provides a clean and straightforward format that is widely recognised and easy to navigate.

• Traditional templates are quite popular, and this is another CV example you can find among LiveCareer’s assets and adapt to any profession.
• This layout’s familiarity and ease of navigation make it ideal for mid-level professionals. 

LiveCareer UK CV builder lets you use this template for free to draft your CV; downloading comes with a small fee.

Free CV templates for managers

11. Swiss-styled (free)

Next is the Swiss design CV template from Microsoft, following the Swiss design rules.

• It has a clean, structured layout, strong typography, and is visually clean.
• Applying Swiss design principles to your CV makes you focus on simplicity, organisation, and readability.
• This CV sample was written for an office manager role, but you can also use it when composing a CV for a project manager or similar.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

12. Managerial

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This CV template from LiveCareer has an elegant look, which can put you forward with confidence.

• This sleek design can underscore your professionalism and expertise, especially if you hold a managerial role.
• Writing an office manager CV? I think you won’t find a more fitting CV template than the Managerial.

LiveCareer UK CV builder lets you create management-level CVs using this template for free, with the option to download it available for purchase.

13. Modern 8

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Writing a business CV? Modern template is a great choice.

• This CV template reflects contemporary design trends while having a very professional appearance.
• Navy blue rectangle up front adds visual interest but doesn’t overwhelm the content.
• Modern yet professional UK CV template that is well-suited for managers. 

Create your CV with this template for free, and pay only if you decide to download it from LiveCareer UK CV builder.

14. Experienced

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What distinguishes this Experienced CV template from LiveCareer is the contact information section.

• Horizontal contact section in a CV is an alternative layout to the traditional vertical placement.
• Offers a visually appealing way to present your personal details and create a more modern and unique look for your CV.
• I am sure this CV template for UK jobs can be adjusted to any mid-level profession.

Feel free to test out this CV template in LiveCareer UK CV builder at no cost – only pay when you’re ready to download your finished CV.

15. Contemporary

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Staying on the modern designs, here’s the Contemporary CV template from the LiveCareer CV builder (try it out for free to see how your CV content will look before downloading). 

• This CV template magnifies a candidate’s name and uses a distinctive turquoise bar on the left, creating a geometric impression.
• Uses simple visual elements in the languages section, which depict the progression of language fluency.
• This template might be useful when writing a CV for an office job, such as an administrator's CV or an executive assistant's CV.

You can try out this CV template at no charge; a small fee applies for downloading your completed CV.

Free CV templates for creatives (all levels)

16. Photographed (free)

This Modern CV template was conceived by Microsoft, and it can include a professional photograph of yourself alongside your qualifications, experiences, and other relevant information.

• Adding a headshot to your CV can provide a personal touch and help employers remember you; however, consider the conventions of your industry and location.
• This Microsoft free CV template is good for journalists, presenters, and public professionals.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

17. Swiss (free)

This template comes from the Google Template library, which you can access with a registered Google account.

• The layout reflects the Swiss style's principles, favouring minimalism and eliminating distractions for the viewer.
• Sans-serif typefaces are typical of Swiss design, aiming for legibility.

This free template might be particularly useful when writing a CV for a creative profession.

18. Embellished (free)

This Creative CV template from the Microsoft CV gallery is the best proof that minimalist visuals can make CVs more appealing.

• In my opinion, CVs are most effective when they incorporate simplistic designs and focus on written content.
• Graphic elements used with moderation can make your CV innovative, especially if you apply for one of the most sought-after jobs in the UK market. 
• Use it for a graphic designer CV or other design-related profession.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

A strong CV summary will convince the recruiter you’re the perfect candidate. Save time and choose a ready-made personal statement written by career experts and adjust it to your needs in the LiveCareer CV builder.

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19. Geometric (free)

A Geometric CV template is another display of ingenuity.

• It features a well-organised layout, clean lines, and incorporates shapes like triangles, squares, and circles to create a sense of visual structure.
• Geometric CV templates can be great for individuals interested in creative and visually-oriented fields, so I recommend that you use them for a fashion CV or an interior designer CV.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

20. Circular (free)

This Creative sales CV template from Microsoft takes CV-making a step further.

• If your profession requires developing your personal brand, you might want to infuse your CV with elements that express your individuality and refer to your field.
• Use it for an art director's CV or a marketing CV.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

21. Contrasting (free)

A bolded name at the top can definitely add a memorable touch to your CV.

• This CV template combines a subtle yellow background and a contrasting main heading. 
• Show off your creativity and digital savviness by applying this unique template, for example, when crafting a video editor CV.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

22. Photo (free)

This lovely Photo CV template with pink embellishments comes from Microsoft stock, too. 

• Though I can’t thoroughly recommend using a photo in a CV, it can sometimes be advantageous when aiming to establish your personal brand and improve visual recognition.
• Photos are usually expected in industries like modelling, acting, or different customer-facing roles, as it showcases your appearance.
• Writing a hostess CV or an actor CV? This template is the right choice.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

23. Playful (free)

This Playful business template from Microsoft combines professionalism with vibrant design elements to create an engaging CV.

• Such CVs are well-received in industries valuing creativity and innovation.
• This CV mixes vivid and muted colours to maintain a professional tone while adding a playful touch.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

24. Chronological (free)

This Modern chronological template by Microsoft showcases your work experience and professional education in reverse chronological order, incorporating modern design elements.

• It also uses a distinct red tone to accentuate the most crucial information.
• Use it for an artist’s CV.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

Free CV templates for technical roles (all levels)

25. Pistachio (free)

Another classy proposition from Microsoft uses a pastel tone and simple text entries as a background.

• Candidate’s name is centred and immediately catches the attention.
• Such a plain design as this Modern developer template helps focus on the most essential information, like experience and technical skills.
• If you’re preparing a web developer CV, here’s the ready-made CV template for you.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

26. Minimalist (free)

Making a minimalist CV involves simplifying the design while presenting your qualifications and experiences cleanly and concisely.

• This Basic template from Microsoft uses a plain layout with blue heading distinctions to maintain harmony and balance.
• In my opinion, this free CV template for Word will work well if you wish to accentuate professionalism and elegance.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

27. Rose classic (free)

Another Microsoft artwork that prioritises compatibility with ATS while maintaining a professional and traditional design.

• Simple fonts and subtle colour additions make this Rose template a classic choice.
• This particular CV example is an HR CV, but I think you can adjust it to many roles.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

28. Clean

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This CV template made by LiveCareer represents the same CV structure as the previous example

• Light blue bar on the front makes it cleaner and lighter.
• Recruiters love easy-to-scan CVs that don’t overwhelm them while reading, and this Clean CV template is up to the task.
• Use it when writing a CV for professions that require focus and calmness, such as counsellors, therapists, and SNE teachers.

Try out this CV template at no cost in LiveCareer UK CV builder – payment is only needed when you decide to download it.

Free CV templates for office jobs (all levels)

29. Clear blue (free)

While "stylish" varies by personal preference, some common characteristics are associated with a stylish CV, and they are evident in this Stylish sales CV template from Microsoft.

• Bold header, serif fonts, and subtle background stripes are just a few design elements that make this layout work so well.
• Consider this free CV template when writing a sales CV.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

30. Light grey (free)

Creating a paralegal CV involves showcasing your professional skills and qualifications in a clear and organised manner.

• In this dedicated Paralegal template by Microsoft, the information is presented in a neat and concise manner, saving ample space.
• In addition, it features a small, classy scale considered a symbol of justice.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

31. Intelligent

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This CV template is accessible from the LiveCareer builder, too. It is not in vain called an Intelligent template, having a clean structure and formatting.

• This CV layout aligns with aesthetic standards, making it ideal for those who must demonstrate these values through their work.
• Writing a hospitality CV? I think you should definitely check out this design.

This CV template is free to use while you create your application in LiveCareer UK CV builder; a charge applies if you decide to download it.

32. Prominent

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Another modern CV design that presents qualifications, skills, and experience in a clear and impactful manner.

• The dividing lines between this CV’s sections create a clear hierarchy, helping to guide the reader’s attention the right way.
• You can find this UK CV template in the LiveCareer builder, under the name of Prominent template.
• Use this CV template for UK hospitality and office jobs.

Create your CV with this template for free, and pay only if you decide to download it from LiveCareer UK CV builder.

33. Trendy

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LiveCareer UK CV builder offers numerous modern templates, and here’s another one to consider when striving for a well-ordered CV.

• Such an arrangement of CV sections helps to showcase your qualifications neatly and effectively.
• The blank space in the right corner is reserved for a photo if you consider one.
• This Trendy CV template might be useful when writing an account manager’s CV or a CV for other jobs where you can boast your organisational skills.

Build your CV for free using this template; download options are available for a fee.

34. Contemporary

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This Contemporary CV template by LiveCareer combines modern design elements with a focus on clarity, organisation, and visual appeal. It also displays professional skills in two columns to keep enough whitespace between sections and fit all contents on one page. The name is separated from sections with a navy blue bar, adding a contemporary flair to this CV.

I recommend using it specifically for office and banking jobs, e.g., when writing a finance CV or an investment banking CV. You can start building your CV with this template for free; a download fee applies once you’re ready to save it.

Free CV templates for other jobs (all levels)

35. Classy beige (free)

Here’s another example of a legal CV template, which aligns with the profession.

• Subdued colour and modern, classy fonts make this Attorney CV template from Microsoft an excellent choice for lawyers who want to balance professionalism and visual appeal.

You can access this free CV template by locating it in the Microsoft Word CV template gallery.

36. Emphasis

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The colour palette you use in your CV can inform about your personality and character. If you’re vibrant, you’ll more likely use vivid colours instead of grey tones.

• This Emphasis CV template by LiveCareer features a common reverse-chronological CV format
• It uses a yellow stripe to break the routine and monotony.
• Use it for a sales assistant CV or for other roles that require extroversion.

You can try out this CV template at no charge; a small fee applies for downloading your ready-to-use CV.

Tip: You can view how this template looks with other colours in LiveCareer UK CV builder.

37. Impactful

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Creating an impactful CV involves a combination of content, design, and customisation, and this Impactful CV template from LiveCareer makes the grade.

• Adjust the main colour to your needs, and you’ll get a well-formatted, personalised CV document.
• Pink is associated with gentleness and softness, so don’t hesitate to use it when writing a CV for the beauty industry.

Create your CV with this template for free, and pay only if you decide to download it from LiveCareer UK CV builder.

38. Modern 10

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CV with a bookmark is another way of organising your CV layout, the alternative way.

• This Modern 10 CV template features a vertical bookmark on the left side and appears to be made from original paper stock.
• LiveCareer UK CV builder lets you choose various sidebars in different colours and textures to add a modern flair to your CV.
• Use this CV template to create a teacher's CV.

You can experiment with this CV template at no cost, with a download available for a fee.

39. Traditional 2

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Here’s another Traditional 2 CV template with free download in TXT that you can find in the LiveCareer builder. 

• Adding lines to your CV can help visually separate sections and create a more organised and professional look, no matter the job profile.

Enjoy free access to this template for creating your CV, with a download fee if you choose to keep it.

40. Modern 2

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The last example comes from the LiveCareer gallery and is called Modern 2.

• It’s a simple, lined CV template with a clean, minimalist design that incorporates subtle line elements for visual interest.
• Thin lines divide sections, and a minimal colour palette keeps the design understated.

This template is free to use while you build – download it whenever you're ready with a small fee.

Frequently asked questions about free CV templates

Does LiveCareer UK CV builder offer CV templates for free?

LiveCareer CV builder has 30+ CV templates you can try for free in the online application. When your CV is ready, and you want to download one of LiveCareer’s CV designs in PDF or DOC, you'll be asked to pay a fee. 

Why is a good CV template important?

A good CV template gives you a structured CV layout with all crucial CV sections to fill, ultimately saving you a lot of time and making process of CV writing easier. A good-looking CV template means an organised, polished, and professional CV, which plays a significant role in making a good first impression on a recruiter. Whether you’re making a career change CV or writing your first CV from scratch, a ready-made template is an important part of preparing your application. 

How to get a free CV template in Word?

To get a free CV template in Word, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Word and click “file”. Then, click “new”.
2. View the list of templates and pick “curriculum vitae” to create yours. You can use the search bar to find it quickly.
3. Open the template and start filling in your details.

The quickest way to get a CV template in Word is to head directly to our free Word CV templates gallery. I also encourage you to visit LiveCareer’s builder, where you can find almost 40 different CV templates, from simplistic CV layouts, through modern CV templates, to creative CV designs.

What is the best template for a CV?

Though there is no universally best CV template to use, the most proper CV template is the one that matches your individual circumstances. It's essential that the CV template you choose fits your role and industry and aligns with its norms. On top of that, a suitable template includes all the essential CV elements: CV personal statement,work experience,education,professional skills, and added sections.

When choosing a preferred template, ensure it’s readable and compatible with ATS software. A well-prepared CV is not only visually appealing but also comprehensive and functional.

What are the most popular CV templates in 2026?

The most popular CV templates in 2026 are:

• Modern – they’re up-to-date with current CV design trends and are often used by those who want to present themselves as smart, tech-savvy, and with a sense of aesthetics.
• Creative – they use icons and vibrant colours to show your unique personality. Creative templates are eagerly used in graphic designer CVs and marketing CVs, where ingenuity plays first fiddle.
• Classic – they strive for clarity and simplicity. These CV templates can be used for a whole range of professions, maintaining a good balance between a substantial and a visual part of a CV.

In our builder, you’ll find a whole cross-section of various CV templates that help to express your values, personality, and attitude while keeping your CV perfectly good, compelling, and easy to read.

You don’t have to be a CV writing expert. In the LiveCareer CV builder you’ll find ready-made content for every industry and position, which you can then add with a single click.

Create your CV now

Final take

And, voilà! With such a vast list of free CV templates for UK jobs, you’re good to go. Just make sure to choose a template that aligns with your profession and doesn’t hinder your job search. Or, choose a professional CV builder like LiveCareer, where all CV templates are reliable and recruiter-approved. You get expert advice and examples as you write, and our builder does the most demanding job for you, adjusting formatting and other visual parts of your CV.

Want to research alternative CV templates? See our curated list for:

• Basic CV templates
• Best CV templates
• Blank CV templates
• Canva CV templates
• Creative CV templates
• CV Designs
• Modern CV templates
• Word CV templates
• Visual CV templates

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

Sources

• University of Missouri-St. Louis, "Tips for Mastering Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)" 
• Virtual College, "The Role of a Manager"
• Universities UK, "Jobs of the future"
• Counselling Directory, "What is self-expression and why is it so important?"