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Are CVs and resumes actually different? Yes! This article breaks down the resume vs CV debate and teaches you how to write the best document for your needs!

Want a stronger resume? Use our extensive library of professional resume examples as practical starting guides.

Resume vs. CV: 4 Key Differences

First, let’s define a CV vs. a resume. A resume is a one-to-two-page document that typically summarizes your job qualifications under five sections. It typically dedicates one page to every ten years of experience and rarely goes over two pages. 

A CV is a curriculum vitae, or “course of life,” which is a multi-page document that summarizes your whole academic, professional, and career-related personal experience under multiple CV sections. This document can range from one to seven pages, depending on your experience and application purposes. 

Although resumes and CVs are professional documents used for applications, they have these four key differences:

1Purpose

CV: A curriculum vitae (CV) is credential-based and submitted for academic, scientific research and medical jobs. Its primary focus is to provide information specific to scholastic accomplishments. 

Resumes: Commonly used to apply for most jobs, resumes are structured to showcase notable achievements and work experience.

2Location

CV: Aside from academic or research-oriented positions in the U.S., a CV is typically used when applying for a job abroad. 

Resumes: Standard document used to apply for job openings in the U.S. and Canada. 

3Focus

CV: Represents your entire career, education, awards and scholarships. It’s a complete background of your academic credentials, research and publications. 

Resumes: Concisely highlights your most significant work achievements and skills. It summarizes your primary qualifications so employers can understand your career background at a glance.

4Length

CV: The most noticeable difference between a CV and a resume is length. A CV can run several pages.

Resumes: Usually kept at one page. Although resumes can be longer –– the general rule is that it should be one page for every 10 years of work experience you have.

What Is a CV?

A curriculum vitae (CV) is a formal document commonly used by researchers and students when applying for academic jobs and the international job market. In the resume vs. CV debate, this document elaborates on the candidate’s educational background and critical achievements.

A CV is usually two or seven pages long and outlines one’s academic accomplishments and work experience. It provides an in-depth understanding of a person’s research and writing achievements and allows for the inclusion of original research, portfolios, and publications. These CV samples break down the many ways to format your qualifications.

What to include in a CV vs a resume

Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental parts of a CV:

  1. Contact information
  2. Education
  3. Experience
  4. Publications
  5. Presentations
  6. Awards and honors
  7. Professional training
  8. Professional affiliations
  9. University/Department/Professional service 

Optional sections you can include in a CV:

  1. Skills
  2. Languages/travel
  3. Activities
  4. Additional avocations or hobbies
  5. References
  6. Additional supporting documentation
  7. Transcripts
  8. Statement of research
  9. Dissertation abstract

When to Use a CV

CVs are primarily used in the U.S. when applying for academic positions at a university or research programs. However, if you’re applying for a job abroad, especially in Europe, you will likely be asked to submit a CV. Use a CV template to help yourself write a CV.

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What is a Resume?

A resume is a formal document used to seek employment, required primarily in the U.S. Think of it as a more job-focused version of a CV. It provides recruiters with a solid overview of your qualifications, work experience, skills, education, and top achievements. 

In the resume vs CV debate, a well-written resume markets your skills and accomplishments to show that you are a valuable asset to the employer. 

How to format a resume vs a CV

All resumes have the same four components: 

  1. Resume summary or objective statement
  2. Work experience section
  3. Skills section
  4. Educational background

Use a resume format that aligns with your experience level to stand out. A resume format is the way you organize your credentials. You can choose between the following: 

  • A chronological resume shows a steady and consistent work history by placing your employment information in reverse-chronological order. This type of resume is ideal for candidates with five years or more of experience.
  • A functional resume shifts the focus from your experience to your skills. Since it doesn’t elaborate much on your work history, it’s great for entry-level job seekers and those with employment gaps.
  • A hybrid/combination resume works best for applicants seeking a career change or between two and five years of experience. This type of resume presents both your experience and skills in equal measure.

When to Use a Resume

Use a resume when applying for a job in the U.S. or Canada unless stated otherwise. 

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Key Takeaways

We covered the strengths of a resume vs a CV. Let’s wrap it up by reviewing their key differences:

  • Both documents are used to apply for jobs. However, a resume is commonly used in the U.S. and Canada, while a CV is the standard in the rest of the world. 

  • CVs in the U.S. and Canada are mainly required to apply for academic or research positions. 

  • While a CV is a complete picture of your academic and professional career, a resume is optimized to showcase your most significant achievements, skills and experience relevant to the job you’re applying for. 

  • A resume should be one page, two at most. A CV can run several pages. 

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Natalia Merced

Natalia Merced

Content Writer

Natalia holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology and a B.A. in Public Relations and Advertising. Her focus on music, pop culture, and its intersections with race and gender led her to publish editorial work in Remezcla, Hasta 'Bajo Project, La Aguja Negra, Diarios Negros and Buena Vibra.

Read more articles by Natalia Merced
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