How do I create an academic CV?

• You might already have a perfect resume. So why create a Curriculum Vitae (CV)? Because they're different documents with different functions!

• A resume summarizes your skills and work experience while a CV details the whole course of your academic career.

• A CV is one of the most important application materials on the academic job market. Your CV will effectively present what you have to offer if you plan well in advance and spend enough time to draft, write, and edit your CV.

There is not one way of preparing a CV. However, keep three things in mind:

1) Compile a master CV that includes a comprehensive record of your education, activities, experiences, and accomplishments.

2) When you're ready to apply, tailor the sections and the order of the sections to the specific position, and cut the parts that are not applicable. 

3) CVs are only skimmed, not read word by word. Avoid long paragraphs and use simple bullet points in a readable and professional font.

You might feel overwhelmed while creating your CV and can't decide what to include and exclude!

Here is a checklist of all the necessary and optional sections for your CV. Remember that your need to highlight the most relevant sections to the position you're applying for.

• Full name

• Phone number and a professional email address

• Mailing address

• Your website and/or LinkedIn URL if relevant

  

• List in reverse chronological order the undergraduate and graduate institutions you attended

• List the institution, location, degree, and date of graduation

• If applicable, include your dissertation title and your advisors

  

• List your employment history in reverse chronological order

• Include position details and dates

• Based on your field, you might break this section into multiple sections, such as "Teaching Experience," "Research Experience," and "Administrative Experience."

List your accomplishments with titles, dates, and any relevant information, such as:

• Publications and conference presentations

• Honors and awards

• Fellowships and grants

• Academic service

• Licenses and certifications

Depending on your field and the specific position you're applying to, the following sections can also be included in your CV:

• Languages

• Technical skills

• Relevant coursework

• Research and teaching interests

• Professional affiliations

• References

  

Congratulations, you have created your master CV! Now it's time to...