South African CV Template (Word)
Use for any South African job application. Keep the layout simple so applicant tracking systems can read it, and trim to 2–3 pages.
How to edit this template
- 1Replace everything in square brackets with your own details, then delete the brackets.
- 2Keep your CV to 2–3 pages. Put your strongest, most relevant experience first.
- 3South African CVs typically include ID number and a photo is optional — leave out your photo unless the employer asks for one.
- 4List at least 2 contactable references, or write "References available on request" if you'd rather share them later.
- 5Use the filled-in example as a guide for tone and length, not for copying word-for-word.
Before you submit it
- Confirm the recipient's latest format, document and submission requirements on its official website.
- Replace every example name, date, address and reference number with your own accurate information.
- Remove personal information that the recipient has not asked for, especially when sending the document by email.
- Check whether the final document must be signed, witnessed, commissioned or certified before submission.
Filled-in example
[Your Full Name] [Your Address, City, Postal Code] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] ID Number: [Your ID Number] Driver's Licence: [Code, or 'None'] Personal Summary [2–3 sentences summarising your experience, key skills, and what kind of role you're looking for] Key Skills • [Skill 1] • [Skill 2] • [Skill 3] Work Experience [Job Title] — [Company Name] [Start Month / Year] – [End Month / Year, or 'Present'] | [City] • [Key responsibility or achievement] • [Key responsibility or achievement] • [Key responsibility or achievement] [Job Title] — [Company Name] [Start Month / Year] – [End Month / Year] | [City] • [Key responsibility or achievement] • [Key responsibility or achievement] Education [Qualification Name] — [Institution Name] [Year Completed] [Matric / NSC] — [School Name] [Year Completed] References [Reference Name] — [Job Title, Company] [Phone Number] | [Email Address] [Reference Name] — [Job Title, Company] [Phone Number] | [Email Address] Filled-In Example Nomvula Dlamini 12 Vuyo Street, Mamelodi, Pretoria, 0122 | 071 234 5678 | nomvula.dlamini@gmail.com ID Number: 9506120123087 Driver's Licence: Code EB Personal Summary Detail-oriented bookkeeper with 4 years' experience managing accounts for small and medium businesses. Skilled in Pastel and Sage, with a strong focus on accuracy and meeting deadlines. Looking for a senior bookkeeping role in a growing company. Key Skills • Sage & Pastel accounting software • VAT and payroll processing • Advanced Excel and reconciliations Work Experience Bookkeeper — Khumalo & Associates January 2023 – Present | Pretoria • Manage full bookkeeping function for 15 client accounts • Prepare monthly VAT201 submissions with zero late penalties • Reduced outstanding client debtors by 30% through improved invoicing process Junior Bookkeeper — Retail Solutions (Pty) Ltd February 2021 – December 2022 | Pretoria • Processed weekly payroll for 40 staff members • Assisted with year-end audit preparation Education Higher Certificate in Financial Accounting — Tshwane University of Technology 2020 National Senior Certificate — Mamelodi High School 2016 References Sipho Khumalo — Owner, Khumalo & Associates 012 345 6789 | sipho@khumaloassociates.co.za Linda Vermaak — Financial Manager, Retail Solutions (Pty) Ltd 083 456 7890 | linda.vermaak@retailsolutions.co.za
Guides that explain this process
Free government job-seeker support in South Africa: how to use SAYouth.mobi (zero data), register on ESSA with the Department of Employment and Labour, and get NYDA support — plus job scam warnings.
Plain-English explainer on how jobs are created in South Africa: private sector growth, the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, and why unemployment stays above 33%.
Claim UIF maternity benefits during your maternity leave. Forms, medical certificate, and how much you can expect to receive.