CV vs Resume
In the US, a resume is a 1-2 page targeted document; a CV (curriculum vitae) is a comprehensive academic record used in academia, research, and medicine. Outside the US, 'CV' is often used interchangeably with 'resume.'
The distinction between a CV and a resume is primarily a US vs. international one. **In the United States:** - **Resume**: 1-2 pages, tailored to a specific job, highlights relevant experience and achievements. Used for virtually all private-sector jobs. - **CV (curriculum vitae)**: Comprehensive academic document. Includes all publications, conference presentations, grants, teaching experience, awards, and research. Can run 5-20+ pages. Used for academic faculty positions, medical residencies, research grants, and government positions. **Outside the United States (UK, Europe, Australia, Canada):** 'CV' is used as a synonym for what Americans call a 'resume.' When a UK job posting asks for a CV, they mean the standard 1-2 page job application document. **Practical guidance for US candidates:** - Applying to corporate jobs: send a resume - Applying to academic faculty positions: send a CV - Applying to jobs internationally: check the country's convention; in most cases, a 2-page resume-style document is appropriate Confusing the two in the US context (sending a 10-page CV to a tech company, or a 1-page resume to an academic search committee) signals that you don't understand the expected professional norms.
Why it matters
Sending the wrong document type signals unfamiliarity with professional norms in your target industry. A 10-page CV to a startup signals you've never worked outside academia; a 1-page resume to an academic search committee means your publications and research won't be evaluated.
Candidate tip
If you're transitioning from academia to industry, you likely have a CV that needs to be condensed into a 1-2 page resume focused on transferable skills and quantifiable impact, not publications.
Put this into practice with the candidate.so Resume Builder.
Learn more →Related terms
Resume Format
Resume & CVThe structural layout of your resume: chronological, functional, or combination. Format determines how your experience is organized and how easily an ATS can parse your information. Chronological is the default for most candidates.
Resume Length
Resume & CVHow long your resume should be: typically one page for candidates with under 10 years of experience, two pages for senior professionals. More pages signal poor editing, not more value. Academic CVs follow different rules.
Chronological Resume
Resume & CVA resume format that lists work experience in reverse order, starting with your most recent job. It's the most widely used and ATS-compatible format, and the default choice for most candidates applying to most roles.
Portfolio
Resume & CVA curated collection of your best work samples, projects, or case studies that demonstrates your skills beyond what a resume can describe. Essential for designers, writers, engineers, marketers, and other roles where showing beats telling.