A job application template is a standardized document that employers use to collect consistent information from all applicants during the hiring process. It includes dedicated sections for personal details, work history, education background, references, and legal declarations. This format ensures clarity in reviewing candidates and maintains compliance with internal hiring protocols. You can access this job application template in Word, PDF, and Google Docs.
Job Application Template
How to Use This Job Application Template
The following breakdown explains what each section is for and how it should be completed.
Personal Information
Fill out your full legal name, date of birth, contact details, and address. Include your SSN if the employer requires it for background checks. Use accurate and current contact information, as this will be used to follow up with you.
Position and Availability
Specify the job title you are applying for. Indicate the date you are available to start and select whether you expect hourly or salaried pay. Also, choose whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or seasonal employment. Make sure this section reflects your actual availability and compensation expectations.
Employment Eligibility
Answer the eligibility questions by selecting Yes or No. If you have prior experience with the employer or a felony conviction, fill in the required explanations with clear and honest details. These responses may influence hiring decisions and need to be accurate.
Education
List each educational institution you attended, including high school, college, or other training programs. Provide the city and state, years attended, and whether you graduated. Include diplomas or certifications where applicable. If you have multiple entries, fill both “Other” sections.
Previous Employment
Document your last three jobs. For each role, write the employer’s name, address, contact email, phone number, start and end dates, job title, responsibilities, and the reason for leaving. Also, specify your pay at the start and end of each job, selecting whether it was hourly or salaried. This section gives a timeline of your work history and performance progression.
References (Professional Only)
Add professional references as needed. For each reference, include their full name, job title, company, relationship to you, email, and phone number. Avoid listing personal contacts or family members. These should be individuals who can speak to your work experience and character.
Military Service
If applicable, fill in your veteran status, military branch, rank at discharge, years of service, and the type of discharge. If not honorable, include an explanation. This section may be relevant for employers with veteran-focused hiring policies.
Background Check Consent
Answer whether you are willing to undergo a background check. This is common for most jobs and required by many employers before finalizing a hire.
Disclaimer and Signature
Read the disclaimer carefully. It includes a statement of equal opportunity and truthfulness certification. Sign, print your name, and date the form to confirm your understanding and consent. This makes the application legally valid.
Tips for Employers and Applicants
For Employers:
- Review for completeness: Always check that every section is filled, even if a resume is attached.
- Verify references and employment history: Use the reference and previous employment sections to validate the applicant’s background.
- Keep records secure: This form may contain sensitive personal data (like SSN). Store it securely and follow applicable data protection laws.
- Customize if needed: You can add company-specific fields or disclaimers based on legal advice or internal policy.
For Applicants:
- Be accurate and honest: Incomplete or misleading answers can disqualify you or lead to termination later.
- Use clear formatting: If filling digitally, avoid font or formatting changes that affect readability.
- Update your details: Make sure your contact information and job preferences match your current situation.
- Attach a resume if available: While this form is standalone, a resume can provide additional context about your qualifications.
FAQs
Use “N/A” or leave it blank if the section isn’t relevant—such as military service or additional education. Don’t remove any part of the form.
The SSN field is optional and may be requested for background checks. If unsure, confirm with the employer before including this information.
The form includes space for three references, but it’s fully customizable—you can add more rows or sections as needed. Focus on professional contacts who can vouch for your work ethic and experience.
This form is usually created by the employer as part of the hiring process. It is then given to job applicants to complete and return with or without a resume.