Federal Resumes Now Capped at Two Pages
Federal agencies now accept resumes up to two pages in length to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan. USAJOBS will not let you upload or build a resume longer than two pages. Update the resumes in your USAJOBS profile before you apply.
Sign in to USAJOBS and open the Documents tab. USAJOBS will tell you if any resume in your profile is too long. Replace or edit those files so they fit the new limit.
What to include
Keep the required elements that HR uses to verify qualifications:
- Contact information. Your name and the best way to reach you.
- Relevant work experience. Include employer name, job title, start and end dates by month and year, and hours worked per week. Describe how you meet the required qualifications. If you held a federal job, list series and grade.
- Education and required credentials. If the announcement requires education, certifications, or licensure, include the school or institution, completion date, degree type, and GPA if requested.
Read the job announcement. Add any information the announcement requires.
What you may add if space allows
If the announcement asks for it, include:
- Current security clearance
- Job related training
- Language skills
- Organizations and affiliations
- Professional publications
- References
Keep these items concise. Prioritize details that prove you meet the qualifications.
What to leave out
Do not include classified or sensitive information. Do not add your Social Security Number. Avoid photos or personal details such as age, sex, or religious affiliation. Do not upload encrypted or digitally signed documents.
How to cut to two pages
- Focus on the last ten years that are most relevant.
- Summarize older roles in one short line under “Additional experience.”
- Combine repetitive bullets.
- Show outcomes and results, not long lists of duties.
- Use the plain language and keywords from the announcement and the assessment.
Formatting that helps
Use a readable font at 11 point or larger and margins of at least one half inch. Keep headings clear and bullets tight. Do not shrink the font to fit the limit.
Final checks before you apply
Make sure your resume matches your assessment answers. Confirm each job entry shows dates and hours per week so HR can credit your experience. Upload only the documents the announcement requests.
A two page limit is a change. It is also a chance to focus your story. A sharp and relevant resume that shows results will keep you competitive.