CV vs. Résumé: What’s the Difference?

When you’re applying for a job, you’ll often hear the terms CV and résumé. But what’s the difference between them?

While the two are sometimes used interchangeably, they can serve different purposes depending on the country, industry, and type of job you’re applying for.

Here’s what you need to know—and how to decide which one to use.

CV vs. Résumé: What’s the Difference?

The simplest way to think about it:

A résumé is a focused summary of your experience and qualifications for a specific job.

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a more comprehensive record of your academic and professional background.

However, terminology varies. In the Philippines and many other countries, employers may use “CV” to refer to what is essentially a résumé.

The key isn’t simply choosing between the two. It’s understanding what the employer is asking for and what information is most relevant to the role.

What Should You Include in a Résumé?

A résumé should quickly show an employer what you can bring to the role.

A typical résumé includes:

• Contact information – Name, email, phone number, and relevant professional links
• Professional summary – A short introduction to your experience and career direction
• Work experience – Relevant jobs, internships, and projects
• Skills – Skills that match the position you’re applying for
• Education – Your degree, school, and other relevant academic information
• Achievements or certifications – Awards, certifications, volunteer work, or other relevant accomplishments

What Should You Include in a CV?

A CV provides more detail about your professional or academic background.

Depending on your field, it may include:

• Education
• Work experience
• Research experience
• Publications
• Conference presentations
• Teaching experience
• Awards and scholarships
• Professional memberships
• Certifications
• Grants or fellowships

For example, if you’re applying for a research position, your CV might include the research projects you’ve worked on, papers you’ve published, and conferences where you’ve presented.

Unlike a résumé, a CV doesn’t necessarily need to fit into one or two pages. It can grow as your career develops.

Which One Should You Use?

Start with the job posting.

If the employer specifically asks for a résumé, submit a résumé. If they ask for a CV, follow their instructions. If the employer uses “CV” for a typical corporate position, they may simply be referring to a résumé. Look at the role and industry to understand what they’re expecting.

As a general guide:

• Applying for a corporate or general job? A focused résumé is often appropriate.
• Applying for an academic or research position? A more comprehensive CV may be expected.
• Not sure? Check the application instructions or clarify with the employer.
• Your Application Should Tell Your Career Story

Whether you call it a CV or résumé, your application document has one important job: help employers understand your experience and see how it connects to the opportunity.

You don’t need to include everything you’ve ever done. Focus on what’s relevant, communicate your strengths clearly, and make sure your application reflects where you want your career to go next.

Ready for your next opportunity? 

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