Curriculum Vitae (CV) Overview
What is a CV?
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a detailed document that outlines your full academic and professional history. While resumes are concise and focused on specific jobs, CVs provide a broader picture of your qualifications, especially for academic, research, and some international roles.
Use a CV if you are:
- Applying to graduate school, fellowships, or research roles
- Pursuing academic teaching or faculty positions
- Seeking positions in STEM, healthcare, or global job markets that request CVs
Important: Some employers or institutions use the terms resume and CV interchangeably. In some countries, the term “CV” is used instead of “resume.” If the expectations are unclear, it’s a good idea to ask for clarification or check if there are specific guidelines listed in the job or program posting.
Some key differences between CVs and resumes:
| CV | Resume | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2+ page, usually 2 pages at undergraduate level | 1 page (for most students and new grads) |
| Purpose | Show depth of academic or research experience | Tailor to a specific job or industry |
| Content | All accomplishments (teaching, research, publications, etc.) | Only relevant experiences |
| Common Use | Academic, research, some international roles | Business, nonprofit, internships, industry jobs, entry-level work |
Even though a CV includes more content, the core principles of strong writing and formatting are the same as a resume. The main difference is that CVs are longer and include more academic-specific content like research, teaching, publications, presentations, and professional affiliations. Standard CVs may include:
- Education
- Teaching Experience
- Research Experience
- Honors and Awards
- Professional/Volunteer Experience
- Publications
- Presentations
- Scholarly/Professional Affiliations
- Research Interests
- Extracurricular Activities
- Licensing/Registration/Certifications
- Grants/Fellowships
- Technical Skills
- References
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting a resume when a CV is requested (or vice versa)
- Using casual formatting or inconsistent styles
- Leaving out academic or research work
- Listing experiences without descriptions or outcomes
- Including irrelevant personal details (e.g., photo, age, unless culturally appropriate)
A CV is more than just a list—it’s your academic and professional story. Even though it may be longer than a resume, it should still be organized, focused, and reader-friendly. And when in doubt? Ask for clarification and visit Career Services for feedback and support.