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When someone says ‘CV template’ chances are they want it in Word. Read on for 10 cracking examples of the world’s favourite CV template format.
We can’t tell you the meaning of life, but we can tell you the meaning of CV: what it stands for, its purpose, and how to make yours perfect.
It seems obvious. A CV is something you use to apply for a job. But stop to think for a second. What does CV stand for? Are CVs the same across the world?
In fact, a British CV and an American CV aren’t the same thing at all. Confused? Don’t be. You’re about to learn everything you need to know about CV meaning.
This guide will show you:
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Once you’ve learned everything about the meaning of a curriculum vitae and its use, make sure your CV trully stands out with help from:
A CV is a standardized formal document used to apply for jobs. CV stands for curriculum vitae, meaning ‘course of life’ in Latin. A curriculum vitae summarizes your work experience, education, and skills gained over the course of your professional life.
But here’s the interesting part. The document itself changes depending on where you’re located. So while CV always stands for the same thing, the meaning of curriculum vitae varies.
A CV in the UK, Commonwealth countries, Europe and Asia is a short document, no more than two pages long, that people use to present their experience, education, key skills, and accomplishments, most often to apply for a new job.
In the UK there are two main types of CV format, chronological and skills-based CV.
Here’s how to write a CV for a job in the UK. These instructions are for a chronological CV.
Learn more about how to write a British CV here: How to Write a CV: Professional UK Examples
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A CV in the US is a detailed document that can run to many pages in length and presents your life experience and accomplishments including education, research you’ve conducted, work you’ve had published and presentations you’ve given.
As you can probably guess from the description it’s used mainly for jobs in academia and for roles in medical and scientific research. It’s also used for applying for grants and scholarships.
Unlike a British CV, there’s no set format for American academic CVs, they’re tailored differently for specific purposes and according to the employer’s requirements. And there’s no page limit unless the employer specifies otherwise.
These are the sections you need to include in an American academic CV.
And that’s all there is to it. Everything you need to know about what does CV stand for and what does it mean.
Learn more about how to write an American CV here: Academic CV Example and Writing Guide
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
So in summary, what does CV stand for and what is the meaning of CV?
Thanks for reading. Do you now know the full meaning of CV? Have I fully answered the question “what does CV stand for”? If there’s anything else you want to know then hit me up in the comments section and I’ll be happy to help.
When someone says ‘CV template’ chances are they want it in Word. Read on for 10 cracking examples of the world’s favourite CV template format.
Don’t know how to address a cover letter? Stuck using stale salutations? Learn how to do it right and you’ll never have to use ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ again.
Planning on using a free CV builder? We looked at the top-ranking free makers and found they’re not all they’re cracked up to be. Take a look and learn why.