CV Tips for Applying to Uni Abroad
Updated: Jun 21, 2022
Basically, I am writing this because, when I went to go apply for grad schools, I wanted my CV to be perfect. I searched the internet for the best tips and this is a consolidated list of the best tips I found. I've also added some additional tips I found especially helpful for students applying to uni abroad.
(Side note: Full disclosure, I am writing this at midnight and I am very tired so leave a comment if I messed up or forgot anything lol)
First off, some general tips:
Customize your CV (and letter of motivation) specifically for each university you apply to
DO NOT repeat anything that you mentioned in your letter of motivation, that will simply be a waste of valuable space
It's okay to brag! You want to seem like the most qualified student for the position
Always remember why you are applying! Authentic interest and excitement will shine through
When applying abroad, highlight any and all international experience you have
I keep a running list of CV-worthy experiences on my computer so whenever I have to make a CV, I can pick the most relevant experience from that list. It makes my life a lot easier when applying to a bunch of programs at once
The Steps to CV Success:
Study the program you're applying for through and through to take note of the qualities and skills they look for in their students
For Example, before applying to Uppsala University, I studied the program website and created the following list:
Examples of Qualities:
Creative, ethical, and responsible citizens
Open and inclusive outlook on the world
Diversity of cultures and perspectives among the student body
Global worldview
Multicultural backgrounds
Examples of Skills:
Creative and critical thinking capabilities
Research skills
Ability to communicate results in written and verbal form
Analytical thinking
English fluency
Cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills
Note the reoccurring themes that this degree focuses on and think about how you will portray that you already possess the skills to succeed
Again for Uppsala, I noted these themes:
Emphasis on research skills
Emphasis on the international environment, they are seeking diversity among the student body
Communicating results in written form and verbally
Media in daily, cultural, political, economic, and professional life
Start to build your CV according to the qualities, skills, and reoccurring themes
Your CV should include these sections:
Education
Bachelors applicants put only your high school(s)
Masters applicants, put your bachelor uni(s) and exchange uni(s)
Career Experience
Choose maximum 3 positions that best represent you as the best candidate
Under each job title, list the key skills the position required that are most RELEVANT
Don’t put experience from over three years ago
Extra Curricular
Same rules apply as in career experience
Skills
Put the most relevant skills that the university is looking for
Awards
Only relevant awards (pst, leadership is always relevant)
Contact Details
Address, email, phone number
Format:
The format should not be too fancy, but if you are going into a creative field, do something small to show your style and attention to detail. And please, DO NOT exceed one page
Title the document with your name before sending it anywhere
I hope this helps!
A post about letters of motivation coming soon!!
Liza xx
Edited by Sophia Pedigo
Here is the CV that I used to apply to Uppsala Uni (with slight changes made for other universities).
ELIZABETH MIEZEJESKI CV
.pdf
Download PDF • 124KB