What is a CV or Curriculum Vitae?

A CV is a brief summary of your qualifications, skills and experiences. It should be easy to read, relevant to the job you are applying for and give the employer a positive impression of you.

What do I need to know about a UK CV?

• It is normally 2 pages of A4 in length.
• It should include information on your personal details (including where you can be contacted and work permit status), education, work experience, skills and interests.
• Information is usually presented in reverse chronological order which means putting the most recent (and often most relevant) information first.
• It should include the name and contact details (including email) of two people who will give you a reference.
• A photograph is not usually required nor is information on your marital status, children or health status. Date of birth is optional.
• Always include a covering letter along with your CV and use it to highlight key skills and experience as well as your knowledge and enthusiasm for the organisation.
• Spelling and grammar are very important. Check your CV and covering letter for accuracy especially if English is not your first language. You might want to ask a friend or tutor for help to make sure you are communicating what you want to say in a clear and effective way.

How can I market myself effectively on my CV?

• Make sure your CV is targeted for the job you are applying for – using a general CV is much less likely to be successful.
• Demonstrate clearly how your skills and experience meet the requirements stated by the employer in the advert and/or job description.
• When explaining your previous work experience, there is no need to describe in detail what the company does or your duties. Keep it brief and focus on your key responsibilities, what you learned from the experience and what skills you gained.
• UK employers also like to know about your interests and activities when you are not studying. Tell them about any hobbies, clubs or societies that you are a member of or any volunteering, cultural or sporting activities you have taken part in. Remember to highlight any achievements or skills you have gained from these pursuits.

Explore further examples of CVs including skills based and academic CVs here

If you are applying for vacation work or a semester job whilst you are studying, you will want to adapt your CV accordingly.

Read more about covering letters and look at an example of a covering letter from an international student here.

See ‘What Next?' for other activities and resources that will help you take action including an on-line seminar to help you build your own CV.