UK CV format: layout, length and what to leave out
In the UK, the document is called a CV rather than a resume, but it plays the same role: a concise, evidence-led summary of your career, usually on two A4 pages.
What UK employers expect
- Two A4 pages for most experienced candidates; one page is fine for school leavers and graduates.
- No photo, date of birth, marital status or nationality. UK equality law means recruiters prefer not to see them.
- A short personal statement (three to five lines) at the top, tailored to the role.
- UK spelling (organised, programme, licence) and dates written as month and year.
- "References available on request" is optional; most employers ask for referees later.
Recommended section order
- Name, phone, email, town or city and LinkedIn. A full street address is not needed.
- Personal statement.
- Key skills or core competencies, especially for technical and public-sector roles.
- Employment history, newest first, with achievements rather than duties.
- Education and qualifications, including professional memberships such as CIPD, ACCA or CIMA.
- Optional sections: volunteering, publications, languages.
Common mistakes
- Copying a US resume with a photo or a one-page limit that cuts relevant experience.
- Listing duties instead of results. Each bullet should show what changed because of you.
- Ignoring the job description's keywords, which many UK employers screen for in their applicant tracking systems.
Templates for this format (12)
Each template below opens in the builder with sample content written for this market. Your details from My Profile fill in automatically, and you can switch templates at any time.
UK CV (two pages)
UK two-page CV: no photo or date of birth, personal statement first.
Editorial Cover
Bold magazine cover: oversized name, editorial kicker and a strong summary block.
Bento Grid
Bento-box tiles for summary, highlights, skills and education, then full-width experience.
Monogram Elegant
Elegant serif with a monogram crest — refined, traditional and easy to parse.
Swiss Grid
Swiss typographic grid: labels left, content right, one red rule. Very ATS-friendly.
Ribbon ATS
ATS-safe single column with a slim colour ribbon — clean for hospital portals.
Product Manager
Violet masthead + split narrative for roadmap outcomes and stakeholder leadership.
Frequently asked questions
Should a UK CV have a photo?
No, unless you work in acting or modelling. Leave out the photo, date of birth and marital status.
Is a UK CV one or two pages?
Two A4 pages is the usual length for experienced candidates. One page works for students and graduates.
What paper size should I use?
A4. Best Resume Studio sets A4 by default for the UK and Europe, and every template is print-tested on A4.
This page is general guidance, not legal or immigration advice. When a job advert or employer asks for something different, follow the advert.