CVs · 3 min read
CV length and layout for the UK: one page or two?
In the UK, two pages of A4 is the usual length for an experienced candidate, and one page is often enough for school leavers and recent graduates. What matters most is that every line is relevant.
A typical UK CV order
Recruiters expect roughly this layout:
- Name and contact details (no photo, date of birth or marital status)
- A short personal profile of three or four lines
- Work experience, most recent first
- Education and qualifications
- Skills, and optionally interests if they add something
Make the first page count
Put your strongest, most relevant achievements in the top third of page one. Many readers decide whether to keep going based on that section alone.
Layout tips
Use a clear font, consistent headings and plenty of white space. Bullet points beat long paragraphs, and older roles can be summarised in a line or two.
Get a second opinion
The hire me. CV check scores your layout, impact and keywords, and shows what to trim or move.