Applying for jobs in the UK with an international CV format or a generic LinkedIn profile can seriously reduce your chances of landing interviews. Recruiters in the UK have specific expectations when it comes to structure, tone, and detail.
Whether you’re applying for:
- Part-time jobs during your course
- Industrial placements or internships
- Graduate roles after your degree
… you need to meet UK formatting and style standards to make it through automated tracking systems (ATS) and human reviewers.
Section 1: How to Write a UK-Style CV
✅ UK CV Basics:
- Length: 1–2 pages (not more than 2)
- Language: British English (e.g., “organisation”, not “organization”)
- Layout: Reverse chronological (latest first)
- Tone: Formal, professional, concise
- Design: Clean, no photos, no graphics unless relevant (e.g., design roles)
Recommended UK CV Structure:
1. Name & Contact Information
- Full name (no prefixes like Mr./Ms.)
- UK phone number (e.g. +44)
- Professional email (avoid nicknames)
- LinkedIn profile URL
🔗 How to Get a UK SIM Card and Number for International Students
2. Personal Statement (Profile Summary)
This 3–5 line paragraph should:
- Summarise your degree, career goals, and specialisations
- Mention any industry-relevant tools or qualifications
- Be tailored for each job
Example:
MSc Artificial Intelligence student at the University of Southampton with hands-on experience in Python and machine learning models. Interested in entry-level AI roles in the healthcare sector. Seeking to apply academic knowledge to real-world impact.
3. Education
- Institution name, course title, and study period
- Degree classification (if known)
- Key modules, projects, dissertation topics
Example:
MSc Data Science
University of Bristol | Sep 2024 – Sep 2025
Key Modules: Machine Learning, Data Mining, Big Data Technologies
Dissertation: Predictive Modelling of Air Quality Using Python
4. Work Experience
- Company name, job title, location, and dates
- Bullet-point responsibilities and results
- Use metrics (%, numbers) to show impact
- Align descriptions with the job you’re applying for
Example:
Content Intern, EduGlobal Ltd., Mumbai | Jan 2023 – May 2023
- Created 12 SEO-optimised blogs that increased traffic by 40%
- Managed Instagram and LinkedIn posts leading to 500+ new followers
5. Key Skills
- Group into: Technical, Software, and Transferable
Example:
Technical: Python, Tableau, R
Software: Excel, PowerPoint, Canva
Transferable: Communication, Time Management, Cross-cultural Teamwork
6. Certifications and Courses (Optional)
- LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, edX, Udemy courses
- Language proficiencies (e.g., IELTS 7.5)
7. Interests & Volunteering (Optional)
- Include if relevant or unique
- Show personality (e.g. “Host of student podcast on digital careers”)
8. References
Use: “Available upon request” (unless a job asks otherwise)
Common UK CV Mistakes to Avoid
- Including personal info (DOB, gender, nationality)
- Using a photo
- Writing in long paragraphs
- Using American spelling
- Adding references unless requested
Optimising Your LinkedIn Profile for UK Recruiters
LinkedIn is often the first impression you’ll make. Here’s how to ensure it aligns with your CV and builds your professional brand.
✅ Profile Essentials:
1. Professional Photo
- High-quality headshot, plain background
- Dress business casual/formal
2. Customised Headline
Avoid: “Student at University of Leeds”
Do: “MSc Cybersecurity | Ethical Hacking Enthusiast | Seeking Summer Internships”
3. About Section (Summary)
Use first-person voice. Include:
- Who you are academically/professionally
- What you’re passionate about
- Any achievements or ongoing projects
- A call-to-action (e.g. “Open to internships”)
Example:
I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Marketing Analytics at the University of Birmingham. I have 2+ years of experience running digital campaigns and a passion for data-driven storytelling. I’m seeking opportunities to apply my analytical and creative skills in UK-based marketing teams.
4. Experience Section
- Add the same entries as in your CV, but write more conversationally
- Add media: links, documents, videos if relevant
5. Education Section
- List full degree name, uni, years
- Mention societies, awards, major projects
6. Skills and Endorsements
- List at least 10 skills
- Prioritise those mentioned in UK job listings
- Ask professors/classmates to endorse you
7. Licenses & Certifications
- IELTS, CFA Level 1, Google Digital Garage, etc.
8. Projects & Volunteering
- Showcase academic or community-based work
- Include brief descriptions and results
9. Recommendations
- Ask previous employers or professors for a 2-3 line recommendation
10. Open to Work Settings
- Activate job preferences (internship/graduate jobs)
- Add location: UK cities you’re targeting
🔗 Guide to Activating Open to Work Banner on LinkedIn
Bonus: Free Tools & Resources
- Canva: CV templates and LinkedIn banners
- Jobscan: CV vs. job scan tool
- Zety / Novoresume: Online UK-style CV builders
- Grammarly: Ensure correct British English
- LinkedIn Learning: Upskill and display certifications
Final Advice from Global Grads
Creating a UK-style CV and LinkedIn profile isn’t just about formatting—it’s about demonstrating that you’re ready to enter the UK job market with confidence.
💡 Remember:
- Keep it clear, concise, and relevant
- Tailor each CV and headline to the role
- Use your international background as a strength
