The terms "CV" and "resume" are used interchangeably in some countries and mean very different things in others. Here's the definitive guide.
The Simple Answer
In the United States and Canada, a resume and a CV are two distinct documents. In the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and most of Europe, "CV" and "resume" mean the same thing — the document you send with a job application.
What Is a Resume?
In American terminology, a resume is a short, targeted document — typically one to two pages — that summarises your work experience and skills for a specific job application. It's concise, focused, and tailored for each application.
What Is a CV?
In American terminology, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a comprehensive document that includes your complete professional and academic history. It can be many pages long and includes publications, research, presentations, and awards. In the US, CVs are used almost exclusively for academic, research, and medical positions.
In the rest of the English-speaking world, "CV" simply means the document you use when applying for any job — what Americans would call a resume.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Length: Resume = 1–2 pages; US CV = as long as needed; UK/AU CV = 2 pages
- Purpose: Resume = one specific application; CV = comprehensive career record
- Content: Resume = tailored highlights; CV = full history including publications
- Photo: Resumes = never in US/Canada; European CVs = usually expected
Rule of thumb: If you're applying for a job in the US or Canada in the private sector, send a resume. If you're applying anywhere else in the world, it's a CV — format it like what Americans call a resume (concise, 2 pages).
When to Use a CV
- Any job application in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand or Europe
- Academic positions, research roles, or university faculty anywhere
- Medical and clinical positions
- Any time an employer explicitly asks for a "CV"
When to Use a Resume
- Private sector job applications in the United States
- Corporate roles in Canada
- Any time an employer in the US explicitly asks for a "resume"
💡 Tip
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