Application Materials
The full set of documents and information submitted with a job application — resume, cover letter, portfolio, writing samples, references, and any other role-specific items requested. Having these prepared and organized before you start applying saves significant time.
Application materials are all the documents and information required to complete a job application. The specific set varies by role and industry. **Standard application materials:** - **Resume**: Required for virtually every role - **Cover letter**: Required or recommended for most professional roles; may be optional - **Professional references**: Typically requested later in the process, but good to have prepared **Role-specific materials:** - **Portfolio**: Design, writing, creative, and many engineering roles - **Writing samples**: Journalism, content, policy, legal, and academic roles - **Code samples or GitHub profile**: Software development - **Work samples**: Marketing (campaign results), finance (analysis examples) - **Curriculum Vitae (CV)**: Academic and research positions - **Transcripts**: Some roles, particularly for new graduates or graduate programs - **Certifications and licenses**: When specifically required (bar admission, medical license, PMP) **For efficiency:** Prepare a 'job search kit' before you start applying: 1. Master resume (full version with all experience) 2. 2-3 tailored resume versions for different role types 3. Cover letter template (to customize per application) 4. Reference list (ready to send on request) 5. Portfolio link or PDF 6. Signed copies of any required certifications **Storage and organization:** Use a clearly named folder system — by company and role — so you can quickly locate what you sent to whom during interviews.
Why it matters
Scrambling to assemble materials when a deadline approaches leads to lower quality submissions. Prepared candidates apply faster, with better materials, and avoid the errors that come from rushing.
Candidate tip
Before your first day of active applications, assemble your complete application kit and verify every link (portfolio, LinkedIn) works — you'll apply faster and with less stress throughout your search.
Put this into practice with the candidate.so Resume Builder.
Learn more →Related terms
Resume PDF
Resume & CVSubmitting your resume as a PDF file rather than a DOCX or other format. PDF preserves your formatting across devices and is standard for most applications. Some older ATS systems parse DOCX more reliably — when in doubt, check the application instructions.
Cover Letter
Resume & CVA one-page letter accompanying your resume that explains why you're applying, why you're a strong fit, and what specifically drew you to this company and role. Strong cover letters add context that resumes can't — they're not required everywhere but matter when they are.
Portfolio
Resume & CVA curated collection of your best work samples, projects, or case studies that demonstrates your skills beyond what a resume can describe. Essential for designers, writers, engineers, marketers, and other roles where showing beats telling.
Portfolio Submission
ApplicationsIncluding a link to or PDF of your portfolio as part of a job application. Required for design, writing, development, and creative roles. A strong portfolio submission can outweigh a weaker resume; a weak or broken portfolio link is immediately damaging.
References
Resume & CVPeople who can vouch for your professional abilities and character, typically previous managers or colleagues. Most employers ask for references late in the process — after interviews, before an offer. 'References available upon request' on a resume wastes space and is outdated.