Curriculum Vitae

A Curriculum Vitae (CV), Latin for "course of life," is a structured account of a candidate's academic credentials, professional experience, scholarly output, and relevant skills. In policy, international relations, and academic contexts, the CV is the standard application document — distinct from the shorter résumé common in U.S. private-sector hiring. While résumés are typically one page and tailored to a specific role, CVs are comprehensive and grow over a career.

For IR students, think-tank researchers, and Model UN alumni applying to graduate programs, fellowships, or international organizations, a strong CV typically includes:

• Education, with degrees, institutions, dates, and thesis titles
• Research experience and affiliations
• Publications (peer-reviewed, working papers, policy briefs, op-eds)
• Conference presentations and invited talks
• Languages, with proficiency levels (often using CEFR ratings such as A1–C2)
• Awards, grants, and fellowships
• Professional service, teaching, and relevant work
• References or a note that they are available on request

International organizations frequently require their own formats. The United Nations uses the Personal History Profile (PHP) through its Inspira recruitment portal, while the European Union institutions typically request the Europass CV, a standardized template maintained by the European Commission. The World Bank, IMF, and OECD have their own application portals with structured fields that effectively replicate CV content.

Common conventions: reverse-chronological ordering within each section, consistent date formatting, and no photograph for applications in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, or Australia (though photos remain common on CVs submitted in parts of continental Europe, Latin America, and Asia). Length varies — early-career CVs run 1–2 pages, while senior academics' CVs may exceed 20 pages with full publication lists.

Tailoring matters: applicants typically adjust emphasis (research vs. policy vs. operational experience) depending on whether the target is a PhD program, a think tank, a ministry, or a UN agency.