A CV, short for the Latin term "curriculum vitae" meaning "course of life," is a detailed document that outlines a person's entire professional and academic history
. It typically includes work experience, education, achievements, awards, scholarships, research projects, publications, and other relevant qualifications
. Unlike a resume, which is usually a concise summary tailored for a specific job, a CV is more comprehensive and can be multiple pages long, especially for mid-level or senior professionals or those in academia
. CVs are commonly used when applying for academic, scientific, or research positions, fellowships, grants, and jobs outside the United States. They emphasize academic credentials and provide a full outline of career accomplishments
. The education section usually appears at the beginning of a CV, and the document is considered a "living document" that grows as one progresses in their career, rarely deleting past achievements
. In summary, a CV is:
- A detailed record of your academic and professional life
- Often longer than a resume, with no strict length limit
- Used primarily in academic, research, and international job applications
- Inclusive of all achievements, publications, presentations, and awards
This contrasts with a resume, which is a shorter, targeted summary focusing on relevant skills and experience for a specific job, typically one to two pages long
