CV vs resume: what's the difference?
Short answer for UK readers: in Britain, the document you send with a job application is a CV, and it's typically two pages. In the United States, the equivalent document is a resume, typically one page — and there, "CV" means something different and much longer.
The terms, untangled
| UK / Ireland | USA / Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard application document | CV (2 pages) | Resume (1 page) |
| What "CV" means | The normal application document | A long academic record (publications, research) used in academia and medicine |
| Photo included? | No | No |
| Spelling | British English (optimise, organise) | American English (optimize, organize) |
Most of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australasia follow the UK usage: "CV" is the standard term. The one-page rule is distinctly American.
How long should a UK CV be?
Two pages is the convention for most professionals. One page can work for early-career applicants; three pages is generally only accepted for senior executives, academics and some medical or legal roles. Recruiters skim — page two should earn its place.
Why this matters for ATS software
Applicant Tracking Systems don't care what the document is called — but most CV advice online is American resume advice, and following it blindly leads UK applicants astray: cramming two pages into one, using US spelling that mismatches UK job adverts' keywords, or adopting US section conventions. Keyword matching is literal: if the advert says "optimised" and your CV says "optimized", weaker systems can miss the match.
When would a Brit need a "resume"?
Applying to a US company (even a UK office of one, if the application portal is American), or to roles explicitly using US conventions. In that case: one page, American spelling, and ruthless cutting. Otherwise — if the advert is British, send a British CV.
Frequently asked questions
Is a CV the same as a resume?
In everyday UK usage, yes — the UK 'CV' and the US 'resume' are the same kind of document with different conventions. In American usage, 'CV' specifically means a long academic record.
How many pages should a UK CV be?
Two pages for most professionals. One page suits early-career applicants; longer is generally reserved for senior, academic or medical roles.
Should a UK CV include a photo?
No — UK convention (and anti-discrimination good practice) is no photo, no date of birth, no marital status.
Does ATS software treat CVs and resumes differently?
No — it parses whatever document you upload. What matters is parseable formatting and keywords that match the advert's language, including British vs American spelling.
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