CV vs. Resume: What's the Difference Around the World?

CV or Resume: Which One Do You Actually Need?

Applying for jobs can feel like navigating a maze, and sometimes even the terminology trips you up! One of the most common points of confusion is the difference between a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a Resume. Are they the same? Does it matter which one you use? The short answer is: yes, it definitely matters, especially when applying internationally.

Using the wrong document can signal to recruiters that you haven’t done your research. But don’t worry, we’re here to clear things up. Let’s break down the key differences and explain what’s expected in various parts of the world.

The Core Difference: Length and Detail

Think of it like this:

• Resume: A short, sharp summary of your relevant skills and experience, tailored specifically to the job you’re applying for. It’s usually 1-2 pages long.
• CV (Curriculum Vitae): A more detailed, comprehensive document outlining your entire academic and professional history. It can be 2 pages or much longer, especially for academic or research roles.

CV vs. Resume: A Global Guide

The terms ‘CV’ and ‘Resume’ are often used differently depending on where you (or the job) are located.

United States (US) & Canada

• What to use: Resume
• What it means: A concise (1-2 pages) summary tailored to the specific job. Focus heavily on achievements and skills relevant to the role.
• When is a CV used? Almost exclusively for academic, medical, or scientific research positions. These CVs are long and detailed, listing publications, conferences, research, etc.

United Kingdom (UK), Ireland, Australia & New Zealand

• What to use: CV
• What it means: While called a CV, it’s closer in length to a US Resume, typically 2 pages (sometimes 3 for very senior roles). It’s more detailed than a US resume, often chronological, but still needs to be relevant. It’s less tailored than a US resume but not the exhaustive document seen in academia.

Europe (General Overview)

• What to use: Usually CV
• What it means: Terminology and format can vary. ‘CV’ is the most common term. Length is often similar to the UK style (around 2 pages). Some countries favour specific formats (like the Europass CV, though it’s not always preferred by employers). Always check if a specific format is requested.

Germany

• What to use: Lebenslauf
• What it means: This translates to ‘course of life’. It’s a factual, often chronological CV, typically 1-2 pages. Traditionally included personal details like date of birth and sometimes a photo, although this is becoming less common due to anti-discrimination laws. Stick to facts and clear structure.

France

• What to use: CV
• What it means: Similar to the UK/German style, usually 1-2 pages. Structure often highlights ‘Formation’ (Education) and ‘Expérience professionnelle’ (Work Experience). A photo was common but is now less expected.

India

• What to use: Often Resume, sometimes CV or Bio-data
• What it means: For most private sector jobs, ‘Resume’ is used and expected to be a concise, US-style document (1-2 pages). ‘CV’ or ‘Bio-data’ might be requested for government or academic positions and can be more comprehensive.

South Africa

• What to use: CV
• What it means: This is the standard term. It’s generally expected to be similar to the UK-style CV – around 2 pages, detailing work experience, skills, and education.

International / Academic Roles (Globally)

• What to use: CV
• What it means: This is the long-form, highly detailed academic Curriculum Vitae. It includes publications, presentations, research grants, teaching experience, affiliations, and more. There’s often no page limit.

So, Which One Should You Use?

1. Read the Job Description: This is your best clue! Does it specifically ask for a ‘CV’ or a ‘Resume’?
2. Consider the Location: Where is the company based? Use the standard convention for that country (e.g., Resume for US/Canada, CV for UK/Europe/SA/Australia/NZ).
3. Note the Industry: Is it an academic, scientific, or medical research role? You’ll likely need a detailed, long-form CV, regardless of location.
4. When in Doubt: For non-academic roles outside North America, a 2-page CV (UK style) is often a safe bet. For non-academic roles in the US or Canada, always use a Resume.

Making it Easier

Knowing the difference is the first step. The next is creating a polished, professional document that meets the right standards.

Whether you need a concise Resume for a tech job in Toronto or a detailed CV for a university position in London, using a well-structured template can ensure you cover all the essential information effectively. ThePerfectCV offers a range of templates designed to meet different international standards and job types, helping you present your experience in the best possible light.

Key Takeaway

‘CV’ and ‘Resume’ aren’t always interchangeable. The key differences lie in length, level of detail, and geographic convention. Always check the job description and consider the location and industry to ensure you submit the right document for your application.

Ready to craft the perfect CV or Resume for your next opportunity? Explore our templates and tools at ThePerfectCV!