How to write a student CV for Europe (general)
Applying across several European countries means navigating conventions that change at each border — photo expectations, length norms, grading scales. This general European guide covers the rules shared across the continent; check the country-specific guides if you're applying somewhere specific.
Photo on a Europe (general) CV
Your call.A photo is accepted in most of continental Europe but rarely required. Your call.
How long should it be?
Up to 2 pages.Two pages is the norm across most of the EU.
How Grade are read
State your grade.State the grading scale alongside your result — scales differ in every country.
Personal details
Leave personal details off.No date of birth, marital status, or nationality. Employers don't want them — including them marks the CV as unfamiliar with local practice, and opens discrimination questions they'd rather avoid.
Worth knowing
- Rate languages on the CEFR scale (A1–C2); it's universally understood here.
- Note your work authorisation if you hold an EU passport or permit.
Build it without memorising any of this
Pick Europe (general) in Fairhand and these conventions apply themselves — the photo field, the length target, the grade label, the paper size. Free, no account needed.
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