In Latin, the phrase “curriculum vitae” means “course of life.” Which is quite appropriate if, as an entry-level candidate, you feel like you’ve spent your entire life in school.
What is a CV?
In modern English, the concept behind the curriculum vitae might better be translated as “the course of one’s professional education and career.” In short, institutions that request these documents are most interested in one’s well-rounded credentials for the job (as expressed through training and subsequent career experience).
Here’s information on why, when, and how to use a CV, when to use a resume vs. a curriculum vitae, CV writing, and formatting guidelines.
When to Use a Curriculum Vitae
When should job seekers use a curriculum vitae, commonly referred to as a “CV”? A curriculum vitae is used primarily when applying for academic, education, scientific, medical, or research positions. It is also applicable when applying for fellowships or grants.
When seeking a job in the Middle East expect to submit a CV rather than a resume.
Keep in mind that overseas employers often expect to read the type of personal information on a curriculum vitae that would never be included on an resume, such as date of birth, nationality, marital status, and place of birth.
What to Include in a CV
There are several differences between a curriculum vitae and a resume. A curriculum vitae is a longer (two or more pages), more detailed synopsis of your background and skills. As with a resume, you may need different versions of a CV for different types of positions.
Like a resume, a curriculum vitae should include:
- Your name
- Contact information
- Education
- Skills
- Experience
In addition to these basics, a CV also includes:
- Research and teaching experience
- Publications
- Presentations
- Grants
- Fellowships
- Professional associations and licenses
- Awards and honors
Also list any other information relevant to the position you are applying for. You may also include a personal statement to make your CV stand out.
Start writing your CV by making a list of all your background information, then organize it into categories. Make sure you include dates on all the publications and experience you list.
Depending on the country, you may also need to provide the following in an international CV:
- Nationality
- Marital status
- Age
- Number of children (ages optional)
- Personal interests like hobbies
- All education including high school / secondary school
- Photos are also recommended (a professional headshot is best)
Date of Birth on CVs
Some countries expect you to include your date of birth on your CV. If you are applying to a foreign job, research the particular country’s protocol for job applications.
Customize Your Curriculum Vitae
Once you have made a list of the information you want to include, it’s a good idea to create a custom curriculum vitae that specifically highlights the experience you have that is relevant to the job you are applying for. It takes more time to write a custom CV, but it’s worth the effort—especially when you are applying for jobs that are a good match for your skills and experience.
- Use accomplishment-oriented bullets that start with an action verb and include a result.
- Start with a Professional Profile (also called a Summary) that highlights the best of what you as a candidate are offering.
- Edit content to include those areas of expertise, skills, and knowledge that specifically match the job requirements; not all the details of your education and employment history (work, research, fellowships, etc.) may be relevant.
Carefully rank and organize the sections of your CV according to what the institution you are applying for is seeking. For example, if you are applying to a university where research is emphasized, you should begin your list of publications on page one, right after your initial professional profile. If, on the other hand, you know that teaching is valued over the publication by the department, you’ll want to give your professional career history pride of place on the first page.
