Free Professional CV Templates

Frequently asked questions about CVs

Below, we answer some of the most common questions about CV structure, content, and best practices.

What’s the difference between a CV and a resume?

The main difference between a CV and a resume is the level of detail and typical use. A resume is a short (usually one-page) document that highlights your most relevant work experience and skills for a specific job.

A CV (curriculum vitae) is more comprehensive and includes detailed information about your education, research, publications, certifications, and other professional accomplishments. CVs are required for academic, research, and medical positions in the US and Canada. In other parts of the world, the term “CV” is a synonym for resume.

How long should a CV be?

There is no ideal maximum length for a CV. Your document should cover your relevant experience, skills, and academic background in full. For most job seekers, a CV should be one to two pages long, or enough to highlight your key skills, work experience, and education.

However, if you’re applying for academic, research, or medical positions, your CV may be longer than two pages. These roles often require more detailed information about publications, research projects, teaching experience, grants, and professional achievements.

What should I include in a CV?

A well-written CV should provide a clear overview of your professional background, education, and qualifications. You should include the following sections:

• Contact information
• Professional summary or objective
• Work experience
• Education
• Skills

The following sections are optional. Include if relevant:

• Certifications or licenses
• Languages
• Awards and honors
• Projects
• Publications
• Conferences
• Professional affiliations
• Volunteer experience

How should I structure a CV for an academic position?

An academic CV is a detailed document that highlights your education, research experience, publications, teaching experience, and academic achievements. It’s commonly used when applying for positions in higher education, research roles, fellowships, or graduate and doctoral programs.

In addition to the standard CV sections, an academic CV should include the following (if applicable):

• Teaching experience
• Research experience
• Publications
• Conferences
• Awards and honors
• Fellowships
• Professional affiliations