-
-
See what our Resume Builder can do:
Build your perfect resume with industry-specific suggestions and professionally written content.
Create Your Resume
-
-
-
See what our Cover Letter Generator can do:
Create your Cover Letter with tailored content ideas, or generate one based on your resume.
Create Your cover letter
-
-
-
See what our CV Maker can do:
Make an impressive CV that wins interviews with suggestions tailored to your career goals.
Create Your CV
-
CV vs Resume: What’s The Difference?
40% higher chance of getting a job‡
47% higher response rate from recruiters‡
EXCELLENT
Confused about the difference between a CV vs a resume? You’re not alone!
While both help you land a job, they’re quite different. In this quick guide, we’ll break down what sets
them apart and how to choose the right one for your next job application — whether you’re applying across
the street or internationally!
Let’s dive in.
Optimize your application
Whether you need a resume or a CV, our builder will improve your document with tailored content suggestions.
Build my resume
Difference Between a CV and a Resume
In the U.S., resumes vs CVs differ in four key ways:
Focus: CVs provide a complete recount of a candidate's credentials, while a resume is a snapshot of the applicant's most relevant qualifications.
Purpose: Job seekers use resumes across most industries, while CVs are reserved for academic, medical, research or government positions.
Length: A CV can be several pages long, while a resume is commonly a one-page document.
Location: CVs are the standard document for job applications anywhere outside the U.S.
Regional Differences Between a CV and a Resume
When applying for jobs internationally, it's important to understand the regional preferences for CVs and
resumes because these documents serve different purposes depending on the country.
Understanding these regional differences ensures you present your qualifications appropriately, increasing
your chances of making a positive impression on potential employers.
Let’s compare CV vs resume differences worldwide:
United States
- CV: Typically used for academic, medical, legal and scientific positions. It comprehensively overviews one’s educational background, research, publications and professional activities.
- Resume: Preferred for most other job applications. It is a concise summary of work experience, relevant skills and educational background, usually one to two pages long.
United Kingdom
- CV: The term CV is commonly used instead of a resume. It serves as the standard document for all job applications, similar to the resume in the U.S. Still, it may include more detailed sections depending on the job requirements.
- Resume: Less commonly used; the CV is the standard document.
Europe
- CV: In many European countries, the term CV is synonymous with a resume and is used for all job applications. The Europass CV format is often recommended for consistency across EU countries.
- Resume: Rarely used; the CV is the preferred document for job applications.
Asia
- CV: In countries like India, China and Japan, the term CV is often used interchangeably with resume. However, the content and structure might vary based on local norms and job expectations.
- Resume: The term “resume” may be used, but the format and details required can differ significantly from Western standards.
Australia and New Zealand
- CV: Similar to the U.K., a CV is commonly used for all job applications. It details education, work experience and skills in a structured format.
- Resume: Less commonly used; the CV is the standard document.
International resume guides
Australian Resume Format
Canadian Resume Format
Indian Resume Format
UK Resume Format
When to Use a CV vs a Resume
Determining when to use a resume vs a CV format can be confusing. Here are some tips to help you decide:
Check the job description. The easiest way to determine if you need a CV or a resume is to check the job description. Employers will often specify which document they prefer.
Consider your industry. Fields like academia, law, medicine and research require a a comprehensive overview of your educational background, research, publications and professional activities. By contrast, industries such as business, marketing, engineering and technology prefer a targeted summary of your experience and skills.
Geographical differences. In the U.S., resumes are commonly used for most job applications, while CVs are reserved for specific fields. In the U.K. and many other countries in Europe and Asia, CV is the standard document for all job applications.
What is a CV?
A curriculum vitae (CV), meaning “course of life,” is a comprehensive document that displays the full range
of a job seeker’s professional life.
Job seekers add to it as a “living document” throughout their careers. A CV template can include information
such as research, educational or professional trips, speaking engagements, experiments, publications,
memberships, etc.
Elevate your professional presence
Build a CV that captures your career achievements and skills, telling your professional story compellingly. Start now to set yourself apart from the competition.
Build my CV
What to Include in Your CV
CVs are structured similarly to resumes, with five essential sections:
Summary statement
Comprehensive job history
Academic background
Professional skills
You can use our AI resume skills generator to create a strong resume or CV skills section based on your target role.