CV vs Resume: What's the Difference and Which One Do You Need?

“CV” and “resume” are often used as if they mean the same thing — and in many countries they do. But in the United States and Canada they are two different documents. Here's how they compare and which one you should send.

The short answer

Outside North America, the word “CV” usually refers to the short, job-focused document that Americans call a resume.

How the terms are used around the world

• United States and Canada: “resume” for most jobs; “CV” for academic and research positions.
• United Kingdom and Ireland: “CV” is the standard term for job applications and is usually about two pages long.
• Europe: “CV” is common, and some employers ask for the Europass CV format.
• Middle East and the Gulf: “CV” is widely used, and personal details such as nationality and visa status are often included.
• South Asia: in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, “CV” and “resume” are used interchangeably, and “biodata” is sometimes used too.
• Australia and New Zealand: both words are used, mostly to mean a job-focused document.

These are general trends. Always follow the wording and instructions in the job advert.

What goes in an academic CV?

An academic CV is a complete record of your scholarly work. Alongside contact details, education and employment, it often includes:

• publications and works in progress;
• research experience and grants;
• teaching experience;
• conference presentations;
• awards, scholarships and fellowships;
• professional memberships;
• references.

Academic CVs grow throughout your career, so completeness and clear organisation matter more than length.

What goes in a resume (or a job-focused CV)?

A resume is a marketing document. It highlights only what matters for the role: a short professional summary, relevant work experience with measurable achievements, education, skills and optional sections such as certifications or languages. Our guide on how to write a CV covers each section step by step.

Which one should you send?

1. Read the job advert. If it asks for a CV or a resume, use that term in your file name and email.
2. Think about the country. In the UK, Europe, the Middle East and much of Asia and Africa, a one- to two-page CV is the norm for most jobs.
3. Consider the role. Applying for a university, research or medical position in North America? Prepare a full academic CV.
4. When unsure, keep it concise. A tailored document of one to two pages is the safest choice — recruiters rarely complain that a CV is too easy to read.

How to turn a long CV into a resume

• Cut it down to the most relevant one or two pages.
• Replace long lists of publications with a few highlights.
• Add a professional summary at the top — see our CV summary examples.
• Rewrite duties as achievements with numbers.
• Match your keywords to the job description, following our ATS-friendly resume tips.

Create your CV or resume for free

Whether you need a CV or a resume, Free CV Maker gives you a clean, ATS-friendly layout that works for both. Type your details, preview the result instantly and download a PDF — no sign-up needed.