What is a CV? (And How is it Different from a Resume?)
CV stands for Curriculum Vitae, which is Latin for "course of life." Unlike a resume, which is typically 1-2 pages and tailored for each job, a CV is a comprehensive document that covers your entire academic and professional history.
Resume
- • 1-2 pages maximum
- • Tailored for each job application
- • Highlights most relevant experience
- • Common in US, Canada, Australia
- • Used for most corporate jobs
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- • 2+ pages (no strict limit)
- • Complete career history
- • Includes publications, research, awards
- • Standard in UK, Europe, academia
- • Used for academic and research roles
When Should You Use a CV?
How to Write Your CV: Step by Step
Follow these steps to create a comprehensive CV that showcases your full professional journey.
Personal Details and Contact Information
Start with your full name prominently displayed, followed by your contact details. In some countries, CVs include a photo, date of birth, and nationality—check local norms.
What to include:
- Full name (larger font, at the top)
- Phone number and professional email
- Location (city, country)
- LinkedIn profile or personal website
- Photo (if required in your region)
- Nationality and work authorization (if relevant)
Personal Statement or Profile
Write a compelling 3-4 sentence summary of who you are professionally. This should highlight your expertise, key achievements, and what you bring to the table.
Example:
"Experienced molecular biologist with 8 years of research experience in cancer genomics. Published 15 peer-reviewed papers in high-impact journals including Nature and Cell. Seeking a senior research position to lead innovative cancer treatment studies and mentor the next generation of scientists."
Work Experience
List all relevant positions in reverse chronological order. Unlike a resume, you can include more detail about each role, especially for academic and research positions.
For each position include:
- Job title and employer name
- Location and employment dates
- Key responsibilities and achievements
- Research projects or initiatives led
- Quantifiable results where possible
Education
List your educational qualifications, starting with the highest degree. For academic CVs, include thesis titles, supervisors, and relevant coursework.
Example:
Ph.D. in Molecular Biology
University of Oxford, UK | 2015-2019
Thesis: "Novel Approaches to Cancer Immunotherapy"
Supervisor: Prof. Jane Smith
Publications, Research, and Presentations
This is crucial for academic CVs. List your publications in proper citation format, conference presentations, and any research grants you have received.
Sections to consider:
- Peer-reviewed publications (use proper citation format)
- Conference presentations and invited talks
- Research grants and funding received
- Patents or intellectual property
- Books or book chapters
Additional Sections
Include any other relevant information that strengthens your application.
Skills
- • Technical skills
- • Software proficiency
- • Laboratory techniques
Languages
- • List languages with proficiency level
- • e.g., English (Native), French (Fluent)
Awards & Honors
- • Scholarships
- • Academic awards
- • Professional recognition
Professional Memberships
- • Academic societies
- • Professional associations
CV Formatting Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a CV be?
Unlike a resume, a CV has no strict page limit. Academic CVs can be 5-10+ pages. However, keep it concise and relevant—only include information that adds value.
Should I include a photo on my CV?
It depends on the country. In the UK, photos are not expected. In Germany, France, and many Asian countries, a professional photo is standard. Check local customs.
How far back should my CV go?
Include your complete relevant history. For academic CVs, include all positions, publications, and presentations from the start of your career.
Should I include references on my CV?
For academic CVs, including 2-3 references is common. For other CVs, you can write "References available upon request" or simply omit this section.