"CV" and "resume" are often used interchangeably, but they can mean different things depending on where you are. Here's the difference and which you need. See also how to write a CV.
In the UK
"CV" (curriculum vitae) is the standard term for a two-page document summarising your experience, skills and education for a job application. This is what almost all UK employers expect.
In the US
A "resume" is a concise (usually one-page) tailored summary for a specific job, while "CV" refers to a longer, comprehensive academic document used in academia, research and medicine.
What this means for you
- Applying for a UK job: write a CV (two pages, tailored) — follow our how to write a CV guide.
- Applying for a US job: usually a resume (concise, one page).
- Applying for academic/research posts: a full academic CV (can be longer).
The principles are the same
Whatever it's called, tailor it to the role, lead with achievements, and make it easy to read and to parse (ATS-friendly).
Practise what you've learned
Turn this into a stronger CV now. CV Optimisation checks your CV against a specific role, and Job Intelligence™ decodes exactly which skills and keywords the vacancy wants so you can mirror them. Build the evidence behind your CV in your Career Passport™.
The practical differences
In the UK, Ireland and much of Europe, "CV" means a concise two-page career summary. In the US, that document is called a "resume", and "CV" there refers to a long academic record of publications and research. If you're applying internationally, match the local expectation: a US employer wants a one-page resume; a UK employer wants a two-page CV.
Format differences that matter
US resumes omit personal details entirely and lean heavily on quantified achievements. UK CVs allow a short personal statement and up to two pages. Neither should include a photo for most corporate roles. When in doubt, follow the convention of the country you're applying in and keep the document ATS-friendly.
One document, localised
You don't need two unrelated documents — you need one strong career story, localised for length, terminology (e.g. "CV" vs "resume", "mobile" vs "cell") and personal-detail conventions. Start from our how to write a CV guide and adapt.