Resumes / CV

There are distinct differences between resumes and curriculum vitae (CV), and understanding these differences is crucial when preparing your application materials. These differences include the length, purpose, and layout of the document. A resume is typically a concise, one- or two-page summary of your skills, experience, and achievements. It is designed to quickly highlight your qualifications for a specific job and is often tailored to match the job description. Resumes are widely used across most industries, particularly in the private sector, where employers typically prefer brief, targeted documents that can be easily scanned.

In contrast, a CV is a much more detailed document that provides an exhaustive account of your academic and professional history. It is commonly used in academic, research, and medical job searches, where employers or institutions expect to see a comprehensive overview of your education, research experience, publications, presentations, grants, and other scholarly achievements. A CV can extend well beyond two pages, and unlike a resume, it is generally not tailored to a specific job but rather serves as a record of your entire career.

When preparing your application documents, it’s important to choose the right format for your field and career goals. To get started, you can utilize the templates below to help organize your resume or CV effectively. Once you have a draft ready, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your in-house Career Services team or UChicagoGRAD for a formal review. Their experts can help you refine your materials and ensure they meet the standards of your target industry or academic field.

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