While both are used in job applications, a Resume and a CV are not interchangeable. The primary differences between a Resume and a CV are the length, what is included, and what each is used for.

What is a Curriculum Vitae?

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is essentially every single job you’ve had, your academic performance as well as relative skills that are applicable to the job you’re applying for. Typically, CVs are longer than Resumes, usually 3 to 5 pages. CVs include all the information on your academic background, including teaching experience, degrees, research, awards, publications, presentations, and other achievements.

A component of the CV is the CV summary, which is a one-to-two-page, condensed version of a full CV. A CV summary is a way to quickly and concisely convey one’s skills and qualifications. Sometimes large organisations will ask for a one-page CV summary when they expect a large pool of applicants. A CV is static and doesn’t change for different positions, the difference would be in the cover letter.

What is a Resume?

A Résumé, on the other hand, is a shortened CV that essentially condenses all the information and showcases the skills that are the most relevant to the job that you’re applying for. It is usually 1 page for someone with work experience less than 10 years or at most 2 or 3 pages for someone with really extensive experience. A Resume provides a summary of your education, work history, credentials, and other accomplishments and skills.

Typically, a Resume is one page long, although sometimes it can be as long as two pages. Often Resumes include bulleted lists to keep information concise. There are also optional sections, including a Resume objective and career summary statement. Resumes come in a few types, including chronological, functional, and combination formats.

You should adapt the resume to every position you apply for. It is in your interest to tailor your Resume to the job requirements. A Resume doesn’t have to be ordered chronologically. Likewise, it doesn’t have to cover your whole career like and is a highly customisable document.

When to Use a CV

In Europe and most countries outside the United States, most employers expect to receive a CV when they advertise a job opening. Even in the US, people in academia & medicine tend to use CVs rather than Resumes. You can also include keywords from the job description in your Resume or CV. Your prospective employer could quickly see your fit for the position.