UK CV vs American Resume: the actual differences (2026)
Applying across the Atlantic in either direction? Here is exactly what changes - and what transfers untouched.
Side by side
| UK CV | US resume | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Up to 2 pages of A4 | 1 page (2 for senior roles) |
| Photo | Never | Never |
| Spelling | British (organised, specialise) | American (organized, specialize) |
| Top section | Personal statement (50-80 words) | Optional summary, often skipped |
| References | Not listed, given at offer stage | Not listed |
| Date format | 12 March 2026 | March 12, 2026 |
| Paper size | A4 | US Letter |
| The word "CV" | Means this document | Means a long academic document |
Converting in practice
US → UK: rename it a CV, switch to British spelling, expand to two pages if you have the material, add a personal statement at the top, and state your UK right-to-work status. Keep the achievement bullets, strong, quantified bullets are the universal currency.
UK → US: cut to one page, switch spelling, drop the personal statement or compress it to a one-line summary, and remove any personal details beyond name and contact, US employers are stricter still about discrimination-adjacent information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between a UK CV and an American resume?
They are near-synonyms with different conventions. A UK CV is typically two pages, uses British English, and never includes a photo. A US resume is usually one page and the word "CV" in America often means a long academic document. Content-wise both are achievement-focused summaries.
Can I use my American resume to apply for UK jobs?
Convert it first. Switch to British English spelling (organised, specialise), call it a CV, expand to up to two pages if you have the experience, remove US-specific jargon, and state your UK right-to-work status. Keep the achievement bullets, those transfer directly.
Do UK CVs include references?
No. "References available on request" is considered wasted space in 2026. UK employers ask for references at offer stage, not application stage. Use the space for an extra achievement instead.