Several universities require students to provide an academic CV along with other application documents when applying for study. An academic CV is a brief snapshot of your educational background, interests and achievements that gives the admissions committee an idea of who you are.
Top 8 tips for writing an academic CV
Scholarship and internship opportunities typically require an academic CV during application. Your academic CV should show that you have what it takes to succeed in a specific course programme and that you are a great fit for the university.
Here are top 8 tips for writing an academic CV:
1. Keep it simple and straightforward
Your academic CV should be direct and concise. Generally, your CV should be between 1-2 pages and should be easy to scan through. Highlight details about yourself or awards you’ve received that will impress the admissions board. The goal is to present yourself as a good fit for that university or scholarship application, so avoid using flowery language. Your academic CV should support your college essay and give an idea of who you are and your strengths.
2. Have a clear structure
While keeping your CV direct and concise, you should adopt a professional style and ensure your CV has a clear structure. Your CV should have clearly defined sections with appropriate headings, bullet points and a consistent font. Each section (education, work experience and volunteer activities) should begin with the most recent experience to your oldest.
While using italics, multiple fonts and spacing, do ensure you stick to a particular style. Proper spacing, fonts and fewer graphics will make your CV appear professional and easy to read.
3. Highlight unique skills and achievements
Colleges are looking to know you better through your application. In addition to your educational background and work history, your academic CV should highlight any awards, publications, unique skills or interests you may have.
Focus on particular interests and accomplishments that will present you as the right fit for your course programme. Provide details on your involvement in different roles and job responsibilities. Emphasizing your specific achievements and roles rather than generalizing them will make your academic CV stand out.
4. Include relevant volunteer activities
Volunteer work, internships and club membership give the admissions board an idea of what your interests are. Volunteer work and other extracurricular activities can give you an edge when applying for scholarships or to universities. If you have any volunteering experience or internships (paid or unpaid), highlight them in your CV and the roles you played.
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5. Build on your academic strengths
When writing your academic CV for any university application, focus on your academic achievements. List relevant courses, projects and academic awards you’ve received. Highlighting your work experience (if you have any) is good, but remember to provide relevant details to reflect your academic strengths. This also includes any honours or distinctions you’ve been awarded.
6. Do your research
Study up on the scholarship or university before you begin your application. Get familiar with the requirements of your university and course programme. If you are applying to multiple schools or courses, you need to tailor your academic CV to fit each university or course.
Get to know what the course is about and the university’s values. Your CV should speak directly to the admissions board and present you as a great addition to the university. Tailoring your academic CV to suit the requirements of a university, course programme or scholarship can increase your chances of getting accepted.
7. Be honest and accurate
Your CV for university application should give the admissions board a quick image of who you are. Avoid including any false information in your academic CV. Having falsified or inaccurate info on your CV or in any of your application documents can be damaging to your entire application. Include relevant experiences and accomplishments that will increase your chances of getting accepted.
8. Proofread
Your CV should work along with the rest of your application to present you in the best ways possible. Proofreading is essential in ensuring your CV has a clear structure and is presented in the most professional, error-free version. There is no limit as to how many times you should proofread. Getting other people to go over your CV helps you spot and correct spelling and grammatical errors you could have skipped.