CV vs resume: what's the difference?
“CV” and “resume” are often used interchangeably, but they're not the same thing - and the difference depends on where you are and what you're applying for.
The short answer
- In the US/Canada: a *resume* is a short (1–2 page) targeted summary for jobs; a *CV* is a long, detailed academic document (for research, academia, grants).
- In the UK, Europe, and much of the world: *CV* simply means what Americans call a resume - a 1–2 page job document. (That's the sense Tailored-CV uses.)
Resume (US sense)
Concise, tailored to one role, focused on relevant experience and results. One page for most people. This is what you send for the vast majority of industry jobs.
Academic CV (US sense)
Comprehensive and as long as it needs to be - publications, research, teaching, grants, presentations, references. Used for academia, research, fellowships, and some medical/legal roles.
Which should you send?
Match the job posting's terminology and region. If a non-academic role asks for a “CV” and you're outside the US, send a tailored 1–2 page document. For academic or research positions, send the long-form academic CV.
FAQ
Outside the US, usually yes - “CV” means a 1–2 page job document. In the US, a CV is a longer academic document and a resume is the short job version.
A job-style CV (UK/EU) should be 1–2 pages, like a resume. An academic CV (US) can be many pages because it lists publications and research in full.