CV vs Resume: What’s the Difference and Which One You Need

The terms CV and resume are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing. Understanding the difference — and knowing when to use each — can make your job applications far more effective.

What’s a CV?

CV stands for “Curriculum Vitae,” which is Latin for “course of life.” It is a detailed document outlining your academic and professional history in full.

• Often multiple pages
• Includes work history, education, publications, research, presentations
• Used for academic, research, education, or medical careers
• Not tailored for each application — more static

What’s a Resume?

A resume is a short, targeted summary of your skills and work experience. It is the most common document used in job applications in the private sector.

• Typically one or two pages
• Focuses on skills, results, and relevance to the job
• Heavily tailored to each role
• Used for most roles outside academia

Key Differences: CV vs Resume

Feature	CV	Resume
Length	2–5+ pages	1–2 pages
Content	Full history: academic, work, publications	Relevant skills, experience, achievements
Tailoring	Usually static	Customised for each application
Purpose	Academia, research, medicine	Business, tech, creative, general jobs
Region	Common in UK, EU, Africa, Asia	Standard in USA, Canada, Australia

Which One Should You Use?

It depends on the job and the country. In the UK and much of Europe, “CV” is the standard term, but it’s often used like a resume — short and tailored. In the US and Canada, resumes are expected unless you’re applying to an academic post.

"When in doubt, follow the job posting. If they ask for a resume, send one. If they want a full CV, they’ll say so."

Tips for a Strong Resume or CV

• Use clear formatting — no fancy fonts or designs
• Put the most relevant information at the top
• Quantify results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”)
• Tailor your application — one size doesn’t fit all
• Keep your documents updated regularly

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a CV and a resume helps you apply for jobs with confidence. The right document, presented well, opens more doors and shows employers you understand what they’re looking for.