Should my academic CV for studying abroad be one or two pages, and how is it different from a resume?
22 Oct 2026 · Answered by Chaithrakala P L · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
An academic CV should usually be one to two pages and around 600 to 700 words, kept precise. It focuses on your academic background in more detail, while a resume is more concise and gives an overall picture. Check each university's requirements.
An academic CV is usually kept to one to two pages. It focuses on your academic background and how you have performed, while a resume is more concise.
CV Versus Resume
| Aspect | Academic CV | Resume |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Usually one to two pages, around 600 to 700 words | More concise |
| Focus | Academic background and performance | Holistic picture in minimum words |
| Detail | More detailed on studies | More concise |
Mistakes to Avoid
- Grammatical errors, which create a negative impression.
- Wrong tenses, using present tense for current roles and past tense for roles you left.
- Spelling and proofreading errors.
- Inconsistent formatting or dates and incorrect sequence.
My Advice
Keep your CV short, precise and proofread it more than once. Some universities set their own format, so check the official instructions.
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