About this template
The Classic Times Roman template is a single-column CV entirely set in Times New Roman, with section titles in tracked uppercase underlined by a thin rule. These are exactly the codes expected by the most traditional recruiters — government administrations, courts, established banks, institutional employers. Its typographic neutrality also makes it the most universally compatible format with ATS systems and automated anti-discrimination filters used in regulated sectors.
Who is it for?
It suits candidates targeting government administrations (federal agencies, GS positions, state cadre A), the judiciary (federal courts, state supreme courts, US Court of Appeals clerkships, Department of Justice), traditional banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, US Bank, Capital One private banking) and institutional employers (Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Federal Reserve regional banks). Particularly valuable when the application form prescribes Times New Roman as required typography — a frequent practice in federal competitive examinations.
How to use it
Strictly respect the canonical US order: Identity, Education, Experience, Skills, Bar admissions/certifications. For federal competitive exams, mention the candidate number where applicable. Cap length at 2 pages strict — beyond that, hiring panels frequently penalise. Use no colour, no icons, no decorative ornament. Visual discipline is itself a signal of respect for institutional codes and conventions expected in these environments.
Frequently asked questions
Is Times Roman prescribed by certain federal applications?
Yes for several federal competitive examinations that explicitly require Times New Roman or Arial 11 pt minimum in the application rules. Concerns notably some Department of Defense civilian positions, certain Department of State competitive exams, and federal judicial clerkship application packets. Always verify the specific competition rules before using any other template.
Does it suit applications to the judiciary?
Yes it's the expected format for federal judicial clerkship applications, US Attorney positions, and Department of Justice line attorney roles. Mention bar admissions with state, year of admission and bar number, law school with class rank (top 10 %, top 25 %, magna cum laude), and Law Review or specialised journal memberships. For appellate clerkship applications, judges' specific preferences vary — check chambers practices.
Should I include grades and class rank for federal applications?
Yes for federal competitive examinations and judicial applications where class rank is a recognised professional signal. Mention 'top 5 % of class' or 'first in promotion' where applicable. For Office of Personnel Management (OPM) federal applications, the Veterans' Preference, GS-equivalence and any Schedule A authorisations should also be clearly listed in the dedicated section of the application.
