Cognizant Resume Format 2026
Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, helping clients build digital businesses. Get a free ATS-optimized resume format designed specifically for Cognizant's Workday hiring system.
Quick Facts — Cognizant Hiring 2026
- ATS System: Workday — your resume must be compatible
- Employees: 350K+ — large hiring volume across India
- Top roles: Programmer Analyst, Associate, Senior Associate, Manager
- Headquarters: Chennai
ATS System: Workday
Cognizant uses Workday to screen every resume automatically. If your formatting, keywords, or structure don't match what Workday expects, your resume gets rejected before a human ever sees it. Our builder creates resumes that are 100% compatible with Workday.
Hiring in 2026
With 350K+ employees across Chennai and other locations, Cognizant is actively hiring for Programmer Analyst, Associate, Senior Associate, Manager and more. A well-formatted, keyword-optimized resume is your first step to getting past Workday.
Step-by-Step: Build Your Cognizant Resume
Follow these 5 steps to create a resume that passes Cognizant's Workday and impresses hiring managers.
Choose an ATS-friendly template
Use a single-column, clean layout. Workday cannot parse multi-column designs, graphics, or icons. Our builder's templates are pre-tested with Workday.
Add Cognizant-specific keywords
Study the job description carefully. Include exact keywords like "Programmer Analyst", specific technologies mentioned, and Cognizant's own terminology. ATS matches keywords literally.
Write quantified achievement bullets
Don't just list duties. Write: "Increased revenue by 25% through..." or "Reduced processing time by 40% using..." Numbers make your resume stand out to both ATS and human reviewers.
Optimize for the specific role
Tailor your resume for each Cognizant position. Reorder your skills section to match the JD priority. Put the most relevant experience first.
Check your ATS score before applying
Use our free ATS Score Checker to verify your resume scores 80+ for Cognizant's Workday system. Fix any issues before submitting.
Cognizant Resume — Do's and Don'ts
Do's
- Use a clean, single-column ATS template
- Include Workday-compatible formatting
- Quantify every achievement with numbers
- Mirror keywords from Cognizant's JD
- Keep it to 1-2 pages maximum
- Save as PDF (text-based, not scanned)
- Add a professional summary with key skills
Don'ts
- Use Canva/creative templates with icons
- Include a photo (unless specifically asked)
- Write vague bullets like 'Worked on projects'
- Use tables, text boxes, or columns
- Submit the same resume to every role
- Use headers/footers for contact info
- Include irrelevant personal details
Expert Resume Tips for Cognizant
These insider tips from candidates who've been hired at Cognizant will help you stand out.
Cognizant uses Workday - ensure ATS compatibility
Highlight digital transformation and cloud migration experience
Include Cognizant Academy or similar certifications
Focus on client-facing experience and communication skills
Mention experience with Cognizant's core industries: BFSI, Healthcare, Retail
Popular Roles at Cognizant
Click any role to get a role-specific resume format with targeted keywords and example bullets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best resume format for Cognizant?
Cognizant uses Workday ATS. A clean, single-column resume with standard headings works best. Include Summary, Technical Skills, Work Experience, Education, and Certifications sections.
What is the Cognizant GenC program?
GenC (Generation Cognizant) is Cognizant's fresher hiring program. Tailor your resume to highlight problem-solving skills, coding abilities, and willingness to learn new technologies.
Does Cognizant accept 2-page resumes?
Yes, for experienced candidates (3+ years). Freshers should keep it to 1 page.
Ready to Create Your Cognizant Resume?
Build an ATS-optimized resume specifically designed for Cognizant's Workday system. Free, no signup required. Used by 2 lakh+ professionals.