Where can I get a plain text CV template for free?

If you don't want to download a file, you can use this blank CV template as a guide or paste it into your word processor to personalize it. [rg_component id="13698"]

What is the difference between a CV and a resume?

In the US, a CV is typically used to apply for academic roles and includes a complete overview of your education and academic experience. Because CVs are comprehensive, they are often several pages long. A resume, on the other hand, is used for non-academic jobs and focuses on your relevant skills, work experience, and education in a concise one-page format. Outside of the US, the terms “CV” and “resume” are often used interchangeably to describe the document you use to apply for jobs. [rg_pin]Learn more about the differences between CVs and resumes .[/rg_pin]

What should I include on my CV?

If you’re writing a non-academic CV, include these sections: Name and contact information (phone number, email address, and Linkedin profile) Introduction (optional) Education Skills Work history Relevant certifications Other optional sections (languages, awards, volunteer work, etc.) If you're writing an academic CV, consider adding these additional sections: Teaching experience Publications Conferences and invited talks Professional memberships and associations Research Fellowships Grants and awards

What’s the difference between a CV and a curriculum vitae?

There is no difference — “CV” is simply the abbreviation for “curriculum vitae,” a Latin term that translates to “course of (one's) life.”

How can I make a CV quickly?

To make a CV quickly, use an online CV maker . These tools walk you step-by-step through each section and handle the formatting for you. Instead of starting from a blank document, you just choose a template and answer a few guided prompts about your experience. The builder then automatically arranges everything into a polished, professional layout, saving you time and effort. [build_resume_in_minutes_cta heading="Build your CV in minutes" cta_button_text="Build my CV now" cta_url="https://resumegenius.com/resume-builder/app/how-to-start" icon="magic-wand" background_image=""]Use our AI-powered CV maker to create a professional CV in just a few minutes. Choose your favorite template and the software will guide you through the rest of the process.[/build_resume_in_minutes_cta]

CV Templates

Free Professional CV Templates

Designed for academics, researchers, and professionals who need a detailed CV. Each template is easy to customize and tailor to the job you’re targeting.

Build My CV Upload Existing CV

Featured CV template

The “Classic” template balances readability with a polished presentation, making it well-suited for professionals in any industry.

Format and styling details:

Two-column layout maximizes space
Experience section design emphasizes career progression
Serif font suitable for any job type

Build My CV Now

Page 1 of the Pro CV template in Navy Blue

Build My CV

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3,613

Pro

Word

Build My CV

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750

Business

Word

Emory CV Template, burgundy color for the resume templates hubpage

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1,951

Emory

Word

Page 1 of the European CV template in green

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1,868

European

Word

Build My CVWord Download Open in G Docs

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5,932

Harvard

WordGoogle Docs

Research CV template, dark blue color, image for resume templates hub page

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3,788

Research

WordGoogle Docs

Writer CV Template, brown color, image for resume templates hub page

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2,182

Writer

WordGoogle Docs

Table of Contents

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

Free Professional CV Templates

Featured CV template

Template Formats

Free downloadable CV templates

Additional free resume templates

Frequently asked questions about CVs

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

How long should a CV be?

What should I include in a CV?

How should I structure a CV for an academic position?

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