CV vs Resume: What Is the Difference?

The difference between a CV and a resume depends on where you are. In the US and Canada, a resume is the one to two page document used for most jobs, and a CV (curriculum vitae) is a longer, detailed record used mainly for academic, research and medical roles. In the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries, "CV" is the everyday term for the one to two page job application document.

Comparison

Which should you use?

• Follow the employer's instructions.
• Use the convention of the country you are applying in.
• For academic roles, use a full academic CV.

Local differences to check

Photos, date of birth and personal details are expected in some countries and discouraged in others. See should you put a photo on a CV.

For how to write either, see how to write a CV.

What goes in an academic CV

An academic CV (the US meaning of CV) is a complete record and can run to several pages. It typically includes:

• Education, with thesis titles and supervisors.
• Research interests and experience.
• Publications and conference presentations.
• Teaching experience.
• Grants, awards and fellowships.
• Professional memberships and service.
• References, often listed in full.

Converting between the two

Academic CV to resume or job CV: cut to two pages, keep the most relevant research and teaching, translate academic language into business outcomes, and add a skills section.

Job CV to academic CV: expand publications, teaching, grants and presentations, and follow the conventions of your discipline.

The same rules apply to both job formats

Whether you call it a CV or a resume, the principles are identical: a clear profile, relevant skills, achievement-focused experience, and tailoring for each role. See how to tailor a CV.