What is the difference between a CV and a résumé?

May 13, 2025 | Learning Center

When preparing job application documents, it’s important to understand the differences between CVs and résumés. While both document types are used to showcase your qualifications, they differ in purpose, content, and format. This article explains the key distinctions to help you determine which is appropriate for your application.

What is a CV?

A curriculum vitae (CV) is a comprehensive document that provides a detailed overview of your educational background, professional experience, achievements, and academic credentials. It is primarily used in academia, research, and international job applications.

Key Features of a CV:

• Length: Typically two to three pages or more, depending on experience.
• Content: Includes detailed sections on education, work experience, publications, presentations, awards, certifications, and professional affiliations.
• Focus: Provides a detailed overview of academic achievements and career progression.
• Chronological Order: Usually presented in reverse chronological order to emphasize recent achievements.
• Customization: Less tailored to specific roles; provides a full career history.

Use a CV When:

• Applying for academic, research, or teaching positions.
• Submitting applications for grants, fellowships, or scholarships.
• Applying for jobs in countries where CVs are standard, such as the UK, Europe, and parts of Asia.

What is a Résumé?

A résumé is a concise document that summarizes your skills, experiences, and achievements. It is widely used for job applications in industries outside academia, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Key Features of a Résumé:

• Length: Typically one page; may extend to two for extensive experience.
• Content: Focuses on professional experience, key skills, and achievements relevant to the job.
• Focus: Emphasizes skills and results that align with the role’s requirements.
• Format Options: Can be chronological, functional (skills-based), or a combination.
• Customization: Highly tailored to each position, highlighting specific qualifications and accomplishments.

Use a Résumé When:

• Applying for corporate, nonacademic, or creative roles.
• Responding to job postings requiring a brief, targeted document.
• Seeking employment in regions like the United States or Canada.

Key Differences Between CVs and Résumés

Choosing the Right Document

When trying to decide whether to use a CV or a résumé, ask yourself the following questions:

1. What Type of Job Are You Applying For?
   – Use a CV for academic or research roles.
   – Use a résumé for industry-specific or corporate positions.
2. Where Are You Applying?
   – Research the norms of the country or region. For example, UK employers typically expect a CV, while US employers prefer a résumé.
3. What Does the Job Posting Request?
   – Follow the instructions in the job description. If it specifically asks for a CV or résumé, provide the document requested.

Regional Conventions

When applying for jobs outside your home country, especially in the Middle East and Asia, it’s important to adapt your application to meet local expectations. One of the first considerations is whether to use a CV or a résumé.

In the Middle East, employers typically expect a CV rather than a résumé. A CV in this context should be a comprehensive document—often two to three pages—detailing your educational background, work experience, key skills, certifications, and relevant personal information such as nationality, visa status, and language proficiency. A professional photo is often included unless stated otherwise.

In Asia, the standard also leans toward a CV, but the structure may vary slightly depending on the country. For example, in Japan, applicants often use a specific resume template (rirekisho) that includes personal information such as age and marital status. In Singapore and Hong Kong, a Western-style CV is widely accepted, and it’s common for a career summary or objective to be included at the top. Photos are expected in some markets and discouraged in others—always check local norms.

In both regions, it’s advisable to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor your application to the industry, role, and cultural expectations of the country. When in doubt, use a well-structured CV and ensure that your contact details are regionally appropriate (e.g., always include the telephone country code and make sure your email address appears professional).

Conclusion

A CV and a résumé both showcase your qualifications, but they differ in length, detail, and purpose. Understanding the key differences between CVs and résumés helps you tailor your application document to the role and region, increasing your chances of success.

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