If you’re looking to apply for jobs in Europe, you may be wondering if the process is any different from that in the United States or other regions.
While they have some things in common, some companies and institutions require a specific type of resume. In Europe, it’s called a CV or curriculum vitae.
Though there are numerous types of resume formats you can use in Europe, the Europass, also known as the “European resume”, was developed by the European Commission in the 1990s as a standardized format.
The Europass format has a user-friendly structure and is accepted throughout Europe, except in the UK.
Keep reading to find out what a Europass CV entails and how to write one.
What Is the Europass Resume for Europe?
It is a type of resume designed to simplify the job application process for candidates from diverse linguistic backgrounds who want to apply for jobs in Europe.
This resume format is easily understood by employers across the continent.
Wherever you’re from, you can use the Europass to create your own European CV to properly demonstrate your qualifications to employers in Spain, Germany, and just about any country in Europe.
It’s an easy way to share your professional background, experience, skills, and certifications.
In the following sections, you’ll learn how to format and write your own Europass CV with the help of examples and actionable advice.
How is a Europass CV different from a U.S. resume?
Traditional resumes and CVs are flexible and can vary in format and structure, while the Europass CV follows a standardized structure with five main sections. Consider the following comparison.
| Europass CV | American resume | |
|---|---|---|
| Name | ✔ | ✔ |
| Contact information | ✔ | ✔ |
| Nationality | ✔ | x |
| Date of birth | ✔ | x |
| Photo | ✔ | x |
| Professional summary/objective | x | ✔ |
| Skills | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dedicated language skills section | ✔ | Optional |
| Dedicated digital skills section | ✔ | Optional |
| Work experience | ✔ | ✔ |
| Education | ✔ | ✔ |
Resume Coach’s resume builder tool has dozens of CV templates designed for flexibility and use in Europe. They will allow you to customize your resume to fit the standardized structure of the Europass CV.
How to Build Your European Resume
If you have an existing American resume, this is a good place to start. You can rearrange and refocus the sections of your resume to create the Europass CV.
Europass CV format
It is a resume format with a specific structure that makes it simple for employers to compare candidates.
You will have to complete 5 basic sections:
- Personal information
- Work experience
- Education and training
- Personal skills and competencies
- Additional information
How to write a Europass CV
With its 5 sections and simple design, writing a Europass CV is very easy.
To create yours, follow the steps below:
- Use a Resume Coach European resume template for easy formatting
- Follow the prompts to fill in information
- Proofread
- Download in PDF
Top Tips
- Use a template: Start with our online resume builder by selecting the European Format. It provides a clear structure to follow and ensures you configure your resume correctly.
- Fill in your personal information: Include your name, date of birth, and contact details.
- List your work experience, education, and training: Mention your most recent experience first, followed by the previous ones. If you have gaps in your work or education history, provide an explanation for them.
- Highlight other qualifications: Include any relevant courses, certificates, or diplomas.
- Add any additional information: List your language skills, volunteering experience, or any other relevant details.
- Proofread your resume: Check for any spelling or grammatical errors before submitting it. Ask a friend or colleague to review your resume and provide feedback.
- Download in PDF: This is the best EU CV file format, as it prevents loss of formatting.
Our online resume builder has multiple AI-powered tools that make CV writing a breeze. For example, our AI skills generator can help ensure you’re including all of the top skills recruiters expect to see in your field.
Example of a Europass CV
Below, you’ll find a Europass CV sample that follows the standardized format. This sample can serve as a helpful guide when creating your own.
Samantha Johnson
123 Main Street, New York, NY 10001
555-555-5555
samantha.johnson@example.com
WORK HISTORY
Laboratory Assistant, 04/2019 – Current
ABC Research Institute – New York City, NY
- Conducted over 200 laboratory tests and experiments following established protocols and procedures under the supervision of senior researchers.
- Maintained and calibrated laboratory equipment, resulting in a 30% decrease in equipment malfunctions and increased efficiency in experimental procedures.
Laboratory Assistant, 07/2014 – 04/2019
XYZ Pharmaceuticals – Boston, MA
- Prepared over 500 laboratory samples for experiments, resulting in the successful completion of numerous research projects and product development initiatives.
- Conducted quality control checks on laboratory samples, leading to a 20% increase in accuracy and reliability of experimental results.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, 2011
New York University – New York City, NY
SKILLS
- Mother tongue – English
- Languages – French C2
- Interpersonal – Collaborated with laboratory teams of 5+
- Organizational – Maintained meticulous records and documentation of laboratory procedures, inventory, and experimental data.
- Job-specific – Demonstrated proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, centrifuges, pipettes, and spectrophotometers. Developed expertise in various laboratory techniques, including cell culture, protein purification, and chemical synthesis.
- Digital – Utilized various computer software and databases to analyze and visualize experimental data, including Microsoft Excel, GraphPad Prism, and ImageJ
How To Submit Your Europass CV
The method of submission may vary depending on the employer’s requirements, but the following guidelines will help streamline the process:
1. Save the file in the desired format
Check the instructions and save it in the appropriate file format. Typically, employers prefer PDF or Word (.docx) files.
2. Follow employer guidelines
Always follow the specific instructions provided by the employer. This may include attaching the CV to an email, uploading it to a job portal, or submitting it through an online application form.
3. Customize for each application
Tailor your Europass CV to suit the requirements of each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications based on the job description.
Customizing your CV will demonstrate your attention to detail and increase your chances of being considered for an interview.
4. Include a cover letter
While not always required, including a well-crafted cover letter can significantly enhance your application. Be sure to customize your cover letter, just as you would with your Europass CV.
5. Double-check your application
Carefully review it for any errors or inconsistencies. Proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes, and double-check that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Should I Use a Europass CV?
While this resume format is recognized throughout Europe, it’s not a universal requirement.
If the application does not specifically ask for a Europass, you may consider using a different resume type that matches your background, goals, and the role you’re applying for.
The Europass CV is most suitable for:
- Early-career candidates, students, or recent graduates who want a clear way to present skills, education, and competencies
- Applicants with limited or non-linear work experience who will benefit from a skills-focused structure
- Job seekers applying across multiple European countries
- Multilingual candidates due to standardized language proficiency listings
- Roles where uniformity and clarity are valued, such as the public sector, education, research, or Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Applicants responding to job postings that specifically request a Europass CV
The Europass CV may not be suitable for:
- Creative industries like marketing where originality is expected
- Private-sector roles at startups or that prefer more achievement-driven resumes
- Experienced executives who need more flexibility to showcase leadership and impact
- Roles outside Europe where the Europass format is unfamiliar
In short, you should choose the format that fits your needs and the expectations of the employer.
Additional Tips for Writing a Europass CV
Choosing the proper wording complements the specific design and simple format of the Europass CV.
- Be brief: Use simple language avoid including irrelevant information.
Example: Managed cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of projects within budget constraints. Conducted risk assessments and developed contingency plans to mitigate potential issues.
- Be specific: Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experience.
Example: Managed email marketing campaigns, resulting in a 25% increase in open rates and a 15% increase in click-through rates compared to the previous year.
- Use action verbs: Begin your sentences with action verbs, such as “managed,” “created,” or “developed.”
Example: Led the development and execution of a strategic project plan, resulting in a 10% increase in project success rates.
- Tailor your CV to the job: Customize it to the job you’re applying for by highlighting the skills and experience that match the job requirements.
- Avoid using complex terminology: Although European recruiters are often proficient in English, using industry-specific language may result in confusion or misinterpretation. Communicate your ideas in an accessible language.
Europass CV FAQs
This FAQ covers the most common questions about the Europass CV and provides clear, actionable guidance to help you decide how to use it effectively.
A Europass CV should be no longer than two A4 pages, according to EU guidelines. It should include only relevant information about your work experience, education, skills, and qualifications. Avoid unnecessary details that make the document longer than needed.
Just tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for by highlighting the skills and experience that match the job requirements.
Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. Be concise while providing specific examples.
Including a photograph on a European resume is common practice. It is acceptable to place a suitable headshot at the top of your resume, along with your name and contact details.
Your photo should have a plain background and feature only your head and shoulders, with a simple pose. Avoid using selfies or photos with other people in the frame.
Important notice: ResumeCoach’s Europass CV builder is a private service subject to the payment of a small fee. Our Europass CV builder is available in several languages and offers you step-by-step guidance and expert advice with the goal of increasing your job prospects in Europe. Please note that you can find the official service on the European Union’s website here.
By utilizing our services and completing the payment, you confirm your understanding and acceptance of the above information.
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