Your CV and cover letter are usually the first things an employer or university sees. Even if you have limited formal experience, a clear and honest CV can make a strong impression. This page explains what to include, how to structure it, and how to tailor both documents to each application.
What is a CV for?
A CV is a document that summarises who you are, what you have done, and what you bring to an opportunity. Employers use CVs to screen applicants before deciding who to invite to interview. At school or university level, your CV does not need to be long. One page is often better than two. The goal is to make it easy for someone to quickly see your education, experience, and skills.
What to include in your CV
A standard student CV includes: your contact details, your education and grades, any work experience or voluntary roles, extracurricular activities or responsibilities, and a short skills or achievements section. You do not need a photograph, your date of birth, or a lengthy personal statement at the top. Use clear headings, consistent formatting, and bullet points that begin with action verbs such as "led", "organised", "supported", or "researched".
What is a cover letter for?
A cover letter is a short letter that accompanies your CV. It explains why you are applying, what you bring to the role, and why you are interested in that specific organisation. Unlike a CV, a cover letter should be tailored to each application. Most cover letters are three or four short paragraphs: why you are applying, what experience or skills you bring, what draws you to this particular employer, and a polite close.
How to tailor your application
Before writing, read the job description or programme details carefully. Identify the key qualities or skills the employer is asking for. Then match your own experience and examples to those points. Do not send the same CV and cover letter to every employer without adjusting them. Even small changes — referencing the organisation by name, mentioning a specific project or value — signal genuine interest.
Common formatting mistakes to avoid
Avoid fonts smaller than 10pt, inconsistent spacing, unexplained abbreviations, or photos. Do not use a template that has heavy graphics or colour schemes that make the document hard to read when printed. Proofread carefully. A single spelling or grammar error can undermine the impression you are trying to create.
Checklist
- Contact details are correct and professional
- Education section is up to date with grades or predicted grades
- Every bullet point starts with an action verb
- Cover letter is tailored to the specific opportunity
- Cover letter explains why you are interested in this employer specifically
- Both documents are proofread at least twice
- File is saved as a PDF with a sensible file name
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending the same cover letter to every employer without changing it
- Including a generic personal objective that does not mention the employer
- Using passive language instead of active verbs
- Making your CV two pages when one page is enough
- Not proofreading before submitting