The Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a document organized around academic experience, typically research, teaching and service. You might be asked to submit a CV for applications for graduate programs, fellowships, faculty positions, research scientist positions and teaching positions. The CV is a document that will grow with you as you progress through your program.
Review our example CV templates for Humanities and Social Sciences or STEM disciplines to learn best practices for formatting this document.
What’s the Difference Between a CV and Resume?
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Resume | |
| Audience | Fellow academics, researchers and teachers | Potential employers and networking contacts |
| Goal | To obtain an academic or research position, grant, or fellowship | To obtain a job in industry, government, nonprofit etc. |
| Structure | Complete history of your academic credentials: research, teaching, awards, service | Brief snapshot of your most relevant skills and experience |
| Focus | Your academic achievements and your scholarly potential | Relevant skills and experience that prove you can do the job well |
| Length | Flexible | 1-2 pages (more only if truly necessary) |
| Unnecessary Info | Activities unrelated to academic pursuits (Teaching, Research, Service) | Irrelevant experience unabridged list of publications, presentations, conferences attended, courses taught |
Academic Cover Letters
An academic cover letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring committee and demonstrate your suitability for the role and institution. In it, you should effectively outline your qualifications, teaching philosophy, research interests and relevant experience. Be sure to include your notable achievements and provide a concise summary of your professional journey and aspirations.