Resume Language Section Format: Listing Language Skills for ATS
Language skills can be a significant differentiator in global companies, international roles, and multilingual markets. When formatted correctly, language proficiency adds valuable keywords and can match specific job requirements. This guide covers how to list languages for maximum ATS and recruiter impact.
When Language Skills Matter
Include language skills when the job description mentions language requirements, the company operates internationally, the role involves multilingual communication, or the position is in a market where multilingualism is valued.
For roles in India, including Hindi and English proficiency is standard. For European positions, multiple language skills are often expected. For US-based roles, bilingual skills (especially Spanish, Mandarin, French) can be a competitive advantage.
If the job posting specifically lists a language requirement (e.g., 'Fluent in Mandarin required'), include your proficiency prominently. This may be a screening criterion.
Language Proficiency Levels
Use standardized proficiency descriptors that ATS systems and recruiters understand:
Native/Bilingual: Full fluency equivalent to a native speaker Professional Working Proficiency: Conduct business confidently Limited Working Proficiency: Handle basic professional situations Elementary: Basic conversational ability
Alternatively, use CEFR levels (A1-C2) for European applications or ILR levels (0-5) for government/diplomatic roles.
| Level | CEFR Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Native/Bilingual | C2 | Full fluency, native-level communication |
| Full Professional | C1 | Advanced business communication |
| Professional Working | B2 | Competent in professional contexts |
| Limited Working | B1 | Basic professional communication |
| Elementary | A1-A2 | Basic conversational ability |
Language Section Formatting
Format language skills as a simple list with proficiency levels:
Languages: • English – Native • Spanish – Professional Working Proficiency • French – Limited Working Proficiency
Alternatively, for space efficiency: 'Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Professional), French (Conversational)'
Place the language section at the end of your resume, after Skills, Education, and Certifications. For roles where language is a primary requirement, it can be placed in the Skills section.
Pro Tips
Include language skills when the job description mentions language requirements or the company is international
Use standardized proficiency levels that ATS and recruiters recognize
Be honest about proficiency—you may be tested during interviews
For multilingual roles, place language skills prominently in the Skills section
Include both spoken and written proficiency if they differ significantly
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Listing languages without proficiency levels, providing no useful information
Exaggerating proficiency that will be exposed in a bilingual interview
Including language skills when they're not relevant to the role (wasting space)
Using non-standard proficiency descriptions that ATS systems don't recognize