CV is an abbreviation of the Latin word Curriculum Vitae.
In Australia, the terms CV (curriculum vitae) and resume are often used interchangeably to describe the same document. That is a document outlining your work and educational history and highlighting your skills, experience and achievements.
However, technically there are differences between a resume and a CV.
The main difference between a resume and a CV is content. A CV is more comprehensive than a resume and, therefore, much longer. A CV includes a detailed and complete history of education and work experience. Additionally, a CV may consist of sections covering research, publications, presentations, awards, affiliations, board appointments and references.
In contrast, a resume is more concise, including only information relevant to the position you are applying for.
In practice, it is usually safe to assume that if a potential employer requests a CV, they mean a resume. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, if you are applying for an academic, education, scientific, research or executive role. These positions are more likely to require the submission of a more detailed CV for consideration.
How to write a CV
Writing a CV is not vastly different to writing a resume. Your CV, like a resume, will include contact information, education and employment history. In a resume, details not relevant to the role should be omitted. In contrast, a CV will provide a complete and comprehensive list of experience and education.
Other sections that may be included in a CV that are not typically found on a resume are:
- Scientific or Academic Research
- Laboratory Experience
- Grants, Honours and Awards
- Publications
- Academic or Professional Presentations
- Extracurricular Activities
- Professional and Association Memberships
- Recommendation or References
- Board Positions
- Community Roles
- Volunteer Work
- Professional Development
A CV is expected to be detailed; however, it is important to remember that length is not the measure of a successful CV. You should provide all the necessary information and be succinct in your writing.
To summarise, when the term CV is used, it will usually just mean resume.
The exception will be if the position is academic, education, scientific, research or executive. In these cases, the expectation will be for a more comprehensive document with a complete history of your experience and education and a high level of detail.
