How to write your CV for Campus France?
The Curriculum Vitae (CV) is an essential document that you must include when applying for a scholarship, admission to a higher education institution (private or public), or a job offer. However, far from being a static document, the CV should be regularly updated and reviewed, not only to accurately reflect your professional and personal development but also to better target the company or school you are aiming for.
The Content and Format of a CV
Your CV has two levels: content and format.
The format is what you see first. Your CV should be concise, readable, attractive, colorful, and pleasant to read.
A CV should preferably fit on a single page and be written in a standard font (Arial or Times New Roman, size 11 or 12) on a white background.
The content is what gives meaning, the essence. Your CV should express your identity and background, spark curiosity, and encourage questions. Be careful with spelling mistakes! Have it proofread by someone close to you.
ESSENTIAL SECTIONS OF A CV
There are important elements that must be included in your CV when applying for admission to a higher education institution, whether private or public.
The Catchphrase
Start your CV with a catchphrase to grab attention. It can be a simple title, but you can also develop a brief introduction, ensuring clarity and conciseness. Mention your experience if it is significant, your specialty or strengths, the responsibilities you can handle, and/or your professional objective.
Personal Information
Place your personal information at the top left of your CV:
- First and LAST NAME (in uppercase)
- Address
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Email address
- Phone number (indicate if it’s on WhatsApp)
Your Education and Skills
- Degrees, studies, and training (including DELF-DALF): Provide an overview of your education, starting with your most recent degree obtained, followed by previous degrees in reverse chronological order. Specify the type and title of the degree, the name of the institutions, the topics of any thesis or dissertation you have written, and the year of obtaining the degree.
- Professional experience, internships with companies / Associations and NGOs: If you are a recent graduate, you may not have much to mention in this section. In that case, you can include your volunteer experiences, unpaid jobs, or extracurricular activities.
- Personal skills (strengths, motivations, soft skills)
- Office tools / digital skills
- Languages spoken
- Hobbies and interests (This section of your academic CV is not mandatory.) You should only include it if you believe your hobbies and interests support your application and are relevant to the position you are targeting. Highlight hobbies that have potentially contributed to the development of your technical and interpersonal skills.
Now you have all the tools you need to write your CV well!