While resumes and CVs are similar, they are not the same. In order to know which document to use, you must know the differences in purpose, format and the necessary contents. Below is a comprehensive guide for properly choosing a resume verses a CV.

Resume vs. CV: Content Differences

A resume is a one to two-page summary of your work experience and skills that are relevant to the specific job to which you’re applying. It is shorter than a CV and often used as a quick, yet detailed overview of your experience, skills, and expertise. In contrast, a curriculum vitae (CV) is longer and more of an itemized list of your education, experience, publications, certificates, awards, and professional affiliations.

While both can be used for job applications, a resume and a CV fulfill different purposes. Below we will walk through when it is appropriate to use each one, their unique characteristics, and the type of content each document should contain.

When is it Best to Use a Resume?

A resume is best used when applying for a job, internship or volunteer position within an organization or business. One would use a resume as a means of introduction to a potential employer, presenting your qualifications, skill set and experience and obtaining an interview.

Characteristics of a Resume 

Resumes are used to feature all of your best qualities, skills and accomplishments. They should be short and to the point, tailored to the specific job to which you’re applying. Resumes should also be easily scannable by a recruiter or employer, listing your previous employment and experience in chronological order.

Content Needed in a Resume

One of the most important elements of a resume is your contact information. You want to make sure it is accurate and easily accessible so you can be contacted for an interview. This should be the first thing an employer or recruiter sees so it should be at the top of the page. Next, a short 1-2 sentence objective statement explaining your interest in acquiring the position. Following your objective statement, you should add an accurate list of your job history. This section of your resume will show your work experience and how you would best fit into the role to which you are applying.

Furthermore, you want to be sure to add an educational background that emphasizes what you studied and any academic achievements. You should include any additional information about state-required licenses and professional certifications. The last section of your resume should list any additional skills that may help demonstrate your special talents and abilities. 

How to Format a Resume

The biggest difference between the formatting of a CV versus a resume is the number of pages (i.e., amount of information). CVs are several pages long and resumes should be no longer than 1-2 pages max unless you have 10 or more years of relevant work experience to provide. 

The most effective resumes are designed to grab the attention of employers and hiring managers. While the formatting should be similar, resume design is up to the candidate. It is perfectly fine to explore and create a template you feel will help your resume visually stand out. It’s okay to pick a template that uses an accent color; however, it’s better to steer clear of multicolored, overly decorated ones. While the goal is to stand out, you also want to keep it professional, so the design does not take away from the content.

Employers, hiring managers or recruiters reviewing your resume will typically prefer a well-organized resume over an extravagant design. Be sure to use an easily readable font, text that is 11 font size or higher, and consistent margins of no less than 0.5 inches.

PRO TIP: Make sure that all the information on your resume is accurate. Embellishing your experience, education or work history may get you the job initially but can ultimately result in termination. Also, but ready to explain any gaps in work history.

When is it Best to Use a CV?

CVs are typically used in educational settings, such as when applying for graduate-level positions, grants, fellowships, and research positions. Interviewers will use your CV to verify your educational qualifications, skills and necessary experience.

Characteristics of a CV

In contrast to a resume, CV’s tend to be more detailed of a document. The good news is there is no length limit, so you are welcome to add as much relevant information as you need. The main characteristics of your CV should include your contact information, professional objective, educational background, work experience, skills, and any up-to-date certifications and licenses.

Content Needed in a CV

CVs are based around credentials. Schools or organizations asking for a CV will want to see your information in the following order: 

• Contact Information
• Education
• Research experience
• Publications
• Awards and honors
• Details on professional training
• Professional affiliations

Not all of this information may be applicable to you. For example, not everyone has research experience or publications. It is okay to skip the areas that do not pertain to you while keeping the order the same.

How to format a CV

While resumes have a max of 2 pages, CVs are typically at least two pages long. You will want to make sure you keep each section consistent, so your DV is easy to read. Each section should have a bold heading with a text size of 14-16. The text size of each paragraph should be 10-12 at the highest. Also, creating bulleted lists when appropriate will help to keep your CV professional and easy to review. 

Be sure not to allow your design aspects to be too over the top. A more professional approach will include an uncluttered document, consistent formatting, and content that is free of spelling and grammatical errors.