CV vs resume: what's the difference?
In Ireland, the UK and most of Europe, the document you send with a job application is called a CV (curriculum vitae). In the United States and Canada, the same kind of document is called a resume. For most jobs, they are the same thing with a different name.
In Ireland and the UK
Say CV. Irish and British employers use “CV” for the two-page document that summarises your experience, education and skills. “Resume” is understood, but it sounds American.
In the US and Canada
Say resume. A resume is usually expected to be shorter, often one page for early-career applicants and two for experienced ones. North American employers also expect no photo and no personal details such as age or marital status.
When a “CV” means something longer
In academic, research and medical settings, and in North America in particular, a CV can mean a full record of your career: every post, publication, presentation, grant and teaching role. These documents can run to many pages. If you’re applying for an academic or senior medical post, check what format the employer expects.
What about the Europass CV?
The Europass CV is a standard template used across the European Union. Some public bodies and EU institutions ask for it. For most private-sector jobs in Ireland, a clean, well-written two-page CV works better than a form-style template.
Does the format need to change?
Not much. The same rules apply everywhere:
- One column, clear headings and real text, so applicant tracking systems can read it.
- Achievements rather than duties.
- No photo or personal details unless the country or employer specifically expects them.
The main changes are the name, the length and the spelling: use “organise” and “programme” for Irish and UK employers, and “organize” and “program” for American ones.
Switch the label in one click
The CV builder lets you choose “CV” or “Resume”. It changes the file name and the wording, while keeping the same ATS-friendly layout.
Build an ATS-friendly CV
Start from an example for your job, then download a clean PDF or Word file. Free, no sign-up.
Open the CV builder