Length & Layout: Do’s & Don’ts

Introduction

Many common mistakes in international applications appear in the length and layout of the CV.

To compete globally, your CV must follow clear formatting and structural standards.

Length

Recruiters typically spend 6–7 seconds scanning each CV.

They must be able to find your most relevant information immediately.

Recommended Length

If your CV is more than 2 pages, check if you're:

• Repeating responsibilities or skills

• Including experience that isn't relevant to the role you're applying to

• Writing lengthy company or project descriptions

• Story-telling instead of focusing on achievements & impact

Master CV vs. Tailored CV

Keep a master CV for yourself - this is a long document containing every role, project, skill, achievement, and detail.

Then, for each job you apply to, extract the information relevant to that role, to create a short, tailored version.

Do’s & Don’ts

In terms of formatting, here's what you should and should not do.

✅ Do

• Create and edit in Microsoft Word or Google Docs

• Submit as a PDF Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Garamond)

• Use 10–12pt font size Keep margins consistent (you may reduce to 0.5 inches to maximise space)

• Use standard section titles*

• Keep all content inside the main body of the document (don't use headers/footers)

*Standard section titles include:
Profile Summary, Work Experience, Education, Projects,…
(See Structure: Sections & Order for full guidance.)

❌ Don’t

• Use Photoshop or graphic design software

• Use complex resume builders

• Use columns or text boxes

• Use icons or graphics

• Place key information in headers or footers

• Add symbols

FAQs