Skill Jobs Forum

When applying for certain types of positions, and for most international employment and educational opportunities, you will need a curriculum vitae, commonly referred to as a CV.


The term "curriculum vitae" translates literally as "course of life." Unlike traditional resumes used in most industries in the United States, they are more credential-based than qualifications-based. They place as much (if not more) emphasis upon presenting one's educational / training history and certifications as they do upon professional experience and specific job skills.

By using a CV template, you'll be able to create your own curriculum vitae quickly. It will need to include a summary of your educational and academic background, as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, and affiliations.

However, keep in mind that your CV will vary based on your industry, as well as whether you are writing a CV for an international position or a position in the United States. Be sure you tailor your curriculum vitae for the job or program to which you're applying.

What to Include in a CV
A CV is both longer and far more detailed than a resume. It contains a comprehensive list of your academic and employment accomplishments rather than a brief summary.

While a resume is often targeted toward a specific position, a CV offers a comprehensive look at your experience. However, that does not mean that you need to list (or that you should list) every single job you have ever held. Instead, it means that you can include every piece of information about you that is relevant to the job.

While CVs are very common outside of the United States, within the US they are primarily reserved for academics and those in medicine or scientific research. If you are applying for a job within the US, send a resume unless a CV is specifically requested in the job posting.

Know what type of information you should include in your CV based on both your industry and where in the world you are sending your CV.

International Information to List

• International employers often expect to read the type of personal information on a curriculum vitae that would not be included on an American resume or CV. For example, date of birth, marital status, and citizenship information may be expected on an international curriculum vitae.
• Some international CVs include an "interests" section in which you can show your personality a bit. However, if you choose to include this, be sure that your interests relate at least tangentially to the job. For example, if you are applying for a job in publishing, you might mention that you run a book club.

Academic Information to List

• If you are applying for a job in academia, you will include any information related to your education, teaching, and research, including any publications and presentations.
• You may also include any fellowships or grants you have received, honors and awards, and professional memberships.
• Also include any relevant employment experiences.

Medicine/Scientific Research Information to List

• If you are applying for a job in medicine, you will include a lot of the same information as you would in an academic CV (including your education, publications, presentations, fellowships, etc.).
• You will also likely include more detailed descriptions of your research experience and research projects.
• Also include any relevant employment experiences.

IMPORTANT: When using a CV template to write your own curriculum vitae, be sure to only include the information that is relevant to your industry and occupation, and to the country you want to work in.