The Core Difference

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a comprehensive document covering your entire academic and professional history. A resume is a concise 1-2 page summary tailored for a specific job.

When to Use a CV

  • Academic positions, research roles, professorships
  • Medical and scientific positions
  • Applications in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East
  • Graduate school applications
  • Grants and fellowships

When to Use a Resume

  • Most corporate jobs in the USA and Canada
  • Entry-level to mid-career positions
  • When the job posting says "resume"
  • Any position where brevity is valued

Country Guide

USA & Canada: Resume (1-2 pages)
UK & Ireland: CV is used but means resume (2 pages max)
Europe: CV, often using Europass format
Middle East: CV (2-3 pages, photo often expected)
Australia: Resume or CV used interchangeably (2-3 pages)