Which formatting rules should I follow for my UK-style CV as an international student?
10 Nov 2026 · Answered by Pushplata Gaddmwar · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
A UK-style CV should use a clean single-column layout, a simple font such as Arial or Calibri, usually one page for freshers, British English, no photo and PDF format. Start bullet points with action words and put your most recent work and education first.
A well-formatted UK CV is easy to read and can be scanned correctly by ATS tools. You should keep it clean, simple and professional, with clear headings, a plain font and a layout that is not cluttered.
UK CV Formatting Rules
| Rule | What to follow |
|---|---|
| Page length | Usually 1 page for freshers, 2 pages for most professionals, and 3 or more for senior, academic or specialist roles |
| Layout | Clean single-column layout; avoid tables, text boxes, sidebars and heavy graphics |
| Font | A simple font such as Arial, Calibri, Helvetica or Segoe UI |
| Font size | 10 to 11 pt for body text, 13 to 14 pt for headings and 16 to 18 pt for your name |
| Margins | 1 to 2.5 cm on all sides |
| Line spacing | 1.15 to 1.2 for easy reading |
| Language | British English, such as colour, organisation and modelling |
| Writing style | Avoid I, me and my; start bullets with action words such as Managed, Created, Led and Improved |
Content and File Rules
| Rule | What to follow |
|---|---|
| Order | Put your most recent work and education first |
| Photo | Do not include one unless the employer requests it |
| Personal details | Avoid age, date of birth, marital status, nationality, religion or your entire home address |
| References | Do not add them, or "References available upon request", unless requested |
| File format | PDF unless the employer asks for a Word document |
| File name | Clear and consistent, such as Firstname_Lastname_CV.pdf |
My Advice
Write your CV for a fresher role first: usually one page, plain layout, action verbs and British spelling. Then check the employer's own instructions, because those override general rules, and update it before the 2027 or 2028 intake.
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