Resume vs CV: what is the difference?

Resume and CV are used for the same thing in some countries and for different documents in others. Knowing which one an employer means saves you from sending the wrong length or format.

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Resume

A short, targeted summary of your work history and skills, usually one page and at most two. You adjust it for each job. Standard in the US and Canada and for most private-sector jobs worldwide.

CV (curriculum vitae)

In the UK, Pakistan, India, the Gulf and much of Europe, "CV" simply means the same short document as a resume, sometimes with a photo and personal details. In academia and medicine everywhere, a CV is a longer, complete record: education, research, publications, conferences, teaching and awards, often many pages.

Biodata

Common in South Asia for government jobs and some private ones: a resume plus personal details such as date of birth, nationality, marital status and father's name. Add those lines to any template in the CV maker.

Which one to send

Follow the job advert. If it says CV and you apply in Pakistan, the UK or the Gulf, send a one or two-page document like a resume. If you apply for an academic or research post, send the full academic CV.

Frequently asked questions

Is a CV longer than a resume?

An academic CV is; in most countries a job CV is the same length as a resume, one or two pages.

Do I need a photo on a CV?

In Pakistan, the Gulf and parts of Europe it is common; in the US, UK and Canada leave it out.

Can I make both here?

Yes. The same templates work for a resume, a CV or a biodata.