CV (Curriculum Vitae)

Curriculum vitae (CV, also often informally called a “vita”) is the full history of your academic experience and involvement. Due to this, CVs have multiple sections and vary in length.  

A CV is used when applying for:

  • Graduate school
  • Academic (research and teaching) positions
  • Fellowships and scholarships
  • Research funding and grants

The Career Center has CV samples for specific disciplines and education levels. We can review your CV through our asynchronous Resume Review+ service or during an appointment with an advisor. 

If you’re not sure whether you need a CV or a resume for an application, see our Resume vs. CV information for help. 

CVs for Undergraduates

When applying to graduate school, the application instructions may request that a CV be included in your application packet. This is required, as opposed to a resume, so that the admissions committee can review all of your academic involvement. However, depending on your experience, your CV might not differ much from your resume. Your CV may include the following sections (if applicable):

  • Education: Information on your previous degree(s)
  • Research Experience: Any research experience you have, including paid and unpaid experiences 
  • Projects: Descriptions of academic or class projects
  • Presentations: Posters and oral presentations
  • Service and Outreach: Leadership on committees or involvement in other institutional organizations 
  • Publications: Full citations with your name bolded

CVs for Graduates Students and Postdoctoral Scholars

Academic positions and funding applications will typically require a CV. Hiring and funding committees are looking for well-organized documents with the most relevant content presented first. For example, if you are applying to a teaching faculty position, you would want to include your teaching and mentoring relevant sections above your research experience and accolades. Your CV may include the following sections (if applicable):

  • Education: Information on your current and previous degree(s) including theses titles
  • Research Experience: Any research experience you have, including paid and unpaid experiences 
  • Teaching Experience: Any formal teaching experience detailing pedagogical approach
  • Publications: Full citations with your name bolded
  • Mentorship: Details of student projects you have mentored 
  • Grants: Information on grants you have received as PI or co-PI
  • Presentations: Posters and oral presentations
  • Guest Lectures: Presentations you were invited to give 
  • Service and Outreach: Leadership on committees or involvement in other institutional organizations, such as serving as a journal reviewer
  • Professional Development: Participation in activities to advance your knowledge and skills
  • Awards and Honors: Formal recognition you have received
  • Affiliations: List of any memberships