What is a CV?

A CV is generally used as part of the application package to graduate programs and to academic positions. It is also the expected document for those who have completed a master's or doctoral program and are applying for academic teaching or research positions.

• A CV is typically longer and more comprehensive, often used in academic or international job markets. 

• A resume is usually 1–2 pages, tailored for a specific job, and used more commonly in North America 

Typically, CVs provide a detailed overview of your skills and expertise to relevant to academic programs and employment within academia.  A resume, on the other hand, is tailored to market a specific skill set for a particular job or unpaid experience, and it is the expected document for non-academic job applications. 

When applying for academic positions or graduate programs, the expected document is a CV.  This document is designed to provide a complete picture of your academic and research qualifications including your education, teaching and research experience, presentations, and publications, and and is generally more lengthy and detailed than a typical resume. 

Note: The terms CV and resume are sometimes used interchangeably by employers, which can be confusing. In many countries, they mean the same thing. Generally, assume academic applications require a CV while non-academic applications require a resume, unless specified otherwise.  

Undergraduate students applying to graduate school can find more information in the Curriculum Vitae for Undergraduates Tip Sheet and CV Checklist.

The Career Centre offers CV critiques for graduate school applications and support in developing CVs for academic job searches. To book an appointment, please call us at 905-828-5451 or email careers.utm@utoronto.