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Writer's pictureDr Rizwana Mustafa

Difference Between a CV and a Resume

Updated: Dec 21, 2023

The main difference between a CV and a resume is that a CV provides a complete history of a person’s academic credentials, career, and qualifications, while a resume is a more concise document that focuses on a person’s career, skills, and capabilities as they relate to a specific position.


A CV is more in-depth and lengthy than a resume because it gives a more thorough summary of a candidate’s career, while a resume is more of a “snapshot” of a candidate’s professional history and skills relevant to the potential job.


Additionally, a CV is tailored to the academic world and is used for job applications in academia or research, while a resume is used for job searches in most industries, nonprofit, and public-sector jobs.


When applying for a job, it is important to know the difference between a CV and a resume. Here are the key differences between the two:


Overview and Key Difference:


  • A CV provides a complete history of your academic credentials, career, and qualifications.

  • A resume is a more concise document that focuses on your career, skills, and capabilities as they relate to a specific position.

What is a CV?


Difference Between a CV and a Resume


  • Curriculum Vitae) is a longer document that details the whole course of your career.

  • It is tailored to the academic world and is used for job applications in academia or research.

  • It is more in-depth and lengthy than a resume because it gives a more thorough summary of a candidate’s career.


What is a Resume?


Difference Between a CV and a Resume

  • A resume is a one- to two-page document presenting key facts about your professional experience, educational background, and skills.

  • It is used for job search in most industry, nonprofit, and public-sector jobs.

  • It is a short highlight reel of your most relevant work achievements and skills.


Side-by-Side Comparison -Difference Between a CV and a Resume


Key Factors

CV

Resume

Purpose

Comprehensive overview of academic and professional achievements.

A concise summary of relevant skills, work experience, and qualifications.

Length

Can span several pages.

Typically one to two pages.

Structure

Chronological order of academic and professional experiences.

Emphasizes key achievements, skills, and experiences relevant to the job.

Target Audience

Academic and research fields, international job applications.

More specific and focused, with less room for additional details.

Countries where


commonly used

United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, etc.

United States, Canada, and other countries following a similar

Countries where

commonly used


Most industries in the United States and Canada.

Conclusion


In summary, a CV is a comprehensive document that emphasizes academic and professional achievements, while a resume is a concise summary of skills and work experience tailored to a specific job application. The choice between a CV and a resume depends on the industry, country, and specific requirements of the job application process.



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