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In India, the terms "CV" and "resume" are used interchangeably in everyday conversation. Job postings might ask for your "CV," your professor might ask for your "resume," and your placement cell might call it a "biodata." But technically, these are different documents with different purposes. Understanding the distinction helps you submit the right one for every situation.
The Core Difference
A resume is a concise, one-to-two-page document tailored to a specific job. It highlights your most relevant skills, experience, and achievements. Every resume you send should be customised for the role you are applying to.
A CV (Curriculum Vitae), which literally means "course of life" in Latin, is a comprehensive document that includes your complete academic and professional history. It can be multiple pages long and includes publications, research, conference presentations, grants, and teaching experience in addition to work history.
When Indian Companies Ask for a CV
Despite the terminology confusion, here is what employers in India typically expect:
- IT service companies (TCS, Infosys, Wipro): They ask for a "resume" or "CV" but expect a one-page resume. Submit a concise, ATS-friendly document.
- Startups and product companies: Resume. Keep it focused and relevant. These companies value clarity and brevity.
- Academic positions: A full CV. Include all publications, research projects, teaching experience, conferences, and academic achievements. Length is not an issue.
- Government jobs: Many government applications have their own forms, but when they ask for a CV, they typically want a detailed document covering your complete career history.
- Consulting firms: Resume. McKinsey, BCG, and Bain have specific resume formats they prefer, often one page with a particular structure.
- MBA applications: Resume, typically one page. Business schools want to see career progression, leadership, and impact metrics.
What Goes in a CV but Not a Resume
- Complete list of publications and papers
- Conference presentations and invited talks
- Research grants and funding received
- Teaching and mentoring experience
- Professional memberships and associations
- Detailed descriptions of research projects
- Academic references
What Goes in a Resume but Might Not Be in a CV
- A tailored professional summary
- Quantified achievements ("increased revenue by 30%")
- Keywords matched to the specific job description
- A concise skills section highlighting only the most relevant abilities
The Indian "Biodata"
You might also encounter the term "biodata," especially in older or more traditional Indian companies, government sectors, and matrimonial contexts. A biodata typically includes personal details like date of birth, religion, marital status, and father's name — information that a modern resume deliberately excludes. For professional purposes in 2026, unless specifically asked for a biodata by a government or public-sector organisation, submit a resume.
Practical Advice
When a job posting says "Send your CV," check the context. If it is a corporate role, they almost certainly mean a resume. If it is an academic or research position, they want a full CV. When in doubt, check the careers page for format guidelines, or simply ask the recruiter. No one has ever lost a job opportunity for politely asking "Would you prefer a one-page resume or a detailed CV?"
Keep both documents updated. Your resume should be a living document that you customise for each application. Your CV should be a master record of everything you have accomplished, from which you can pull content for specific opportunities.