Everything you need to know about the standard European CV template

Looking to relocate to Europe? You'll need a persuasive resume to land your next job in a new country. The Europass CV can be developed using an online CV builder and is considered the standard CV format across Europe. But what is the Europass CV, exactly, should you fill it in, and what's involved? That's what we're investigating in this article. 

What is a Europass CV?

The European Union created the Europass as an attempt to standardize information presented in job applications. In theory, this places everyone on the same footing when they apply for a role – but in practice, it doesn't quite work like that. Imagine trying to standardize a document that should be personal and tailored to every individual and every role in a union of 450 million people! 

However, the system has its advantages and disadvantages, so let's look into them before going any further. 

Pros and cons of a Europass CV

If you're applying for a job in mainland Europe, the Europass can be a good choice for your CV because: 

  • It's a very well-known format, familiar to most employers 

  • It can provide a basic foundation if you're not familiar with European CV requirements

  • It's free to create your CV using their CV builder tool

Of course, there are drawbacks, too: 

  • Your CV is presented in the same format as everyone else's – there are minimal options to customize the look

  • The final CV looks unappealing and doesn't compare to professionally-designed formats

  • You need to know about CV writing best practice to make sure the CV you're presenting is appropriate for your needs

What is the difference between a Europass CV and a normal CV?

A CV in the UK and Europe is basically what Americans call a resume. It contains the same information and serves the same purpose. The only difference between a Europass CV and any other CV in Europe is that the Europass is presented in a standard format. 

Sections to complete on a Europass CV

The Europass website walks you through each section of the CV. You'll start by inputting basic details such as your name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and contact details. There's also an About Me section on this page, which equates to the Professional Profile, or Summary Statement, on an American resume. 

You then have the option to add further sections (and it's strongly recommended that you do!). Many won't be applicable to your personal situation, so you're able to skip them – sections such as Publications and Creative Works won't be relevant to everyone. With that said, you should fill in as many as possible that are relevant to the role you seek. 

Bear in mind, as you complete these sections, that some information requested by the CV builder isn't advisable to include in a strong application. That includes potentially discriminating information and potentially irrelevant information. That's why it helps to have a basic understanding of CV-writing best practices before you begin, or you'll end up wasting time creating a less-than-optimal document that fails to sell you into a role. 

What to include on a Europass CV

The Europass CV should contain the same information that you'd include on your resume. That is to say: 

  • Your name and contact details 

  • A high-impact summary of your professional expertise and skills

  • An overview of your career

  • A list of your academic qualifications and the professional development you've undertaken

  • Any other information that would support your application

The career overview is the most important section for most professionals (if you're fresh out of college, focus more attention on the Education section). Ensure you include enough detail here to give the reader a solid understanding of the value you can add to their organization, including: 

  • An overview of the remit and scope of the role

  • A list of achievements that shows how you've contributed to the business during your tenure

If written well, the Work Experience and About Me sections should eliminate the need for the separate Skills section that the Europass CV pushes. These aren't conventional sections on a European CV.

When filling out a Europass CV, 

  • DO: Keep the information provided concise and punchy
  • DON'T: Fill in every single section – the CV will soon run out of control!

Format of a Europass CV

Unfortunately, you have no control over the format of your Europass CV and this is one of the main criticisms leveled at it. You're able to choose from one of four formats and pick a highlight color, but that's all. 

It's very difficult to edit and change information once you've saved it – aim to get everything right the first time to avoid headaches later!

Beware: your CV will have the Europass logo added to it automatically – you need to turn this option off if you want to avoid a large, distracting, and unnecessary image right at the top of your professional career document.

Ideal length of a Europass CV

If you fill out every section of the CV builder fully, you'll soon find yourself with a CV that is many pages long. As in the US, Europeans value a short, concise CV that contains only information relevant to the job at hand. Aim for a maximum of three pages, but ideally, keep it to two if at all possible. 

Is the Europass a good CV template?

While the template uses a sensible font and clearly labeled sections, that's really all it has going for it. When the superfluous sections and irrelevant information are taken into account, the Europass CV template could harm your chances of landing a new position more than it helps.

Fancy a more professional CV?

If a new position in Europe is in the cards for you, know that the Europass CV isn't the only way forward. With a bit of research, you'll be able to create your own European resume that really shows off your suitability for the role. 

If you'd like some expert help, we have CV writers across the globe, including in Europe, who know all about best practices and hiring trends in their area. Why not send your current resume for a free resume review to see how you can make it more Euro-friendly?

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