Resume vs CV

The distinction between a resume and a CV depends on your industry and geographic location. In the United States and Canada, a resume is a one-to-two page document tailored for a specific job, while a CV is a comprehensive multi-page document used primarily in academic, research, and medical fields.

A resume is selective — you choose which experiences and skills to highlight based on the target role. A CV is cumulative — it includes your entire professional and academic history, growing longer throughout your career. Resumes emphasize work experience and quantified achievements; CVs emphasize publications, research, teaching, and academic credentials.

Outside North America, the terminology varies. In the UK, Ireland, and much of Europe, "CV" refers to what Americans would call a resume — a concise, targeted document. Australian and New Zealand conventions also use "CV" for standard job applications. If you are applying internationally, always check the local conventions and follow the employer's specific instructions regarding document type and format.