Should I put a photo on my CV in the UK?

No, unless the job specifically asks for one, such as some acting or modelling roles. Most UK employers do not expect a photo.

Should I put my age or date of birth on my CV?

No. Employers do not need it to decide whether to interview you, and leaving it off helps make sure you are judged on your skills and experience.

Do I need to list references?

No. You do not need to give referees' details or write “references available on request”. Employers will ask for references if they offer you the job.

Should I include my GCSEs if I have a degree?

A single line is enough, such as “9 GCSEs including English and Maths”. Give more detail to your most recent and highest qualifications.

CV guide

What not to put on a UK CV

A good CV is as much about what you leave out as what you put in. Some details are expected in other countries but not in the UK, and some just take up space an employer would rather see used for your skills.

Leave these off

A photo
Your date of birth or age
Your full home address
Marital status or children
Your National Insurance number
Referees' contact details
Your current salary
Reasons for leaving each job
An unprofessional email address
The word “CV” as a heading
Anything you have exaggerated
Spelling and grammar mistakes

Include these instead

Your name as the heading
Your town or city
A phone number and professional email
Your right to work in the UK, if relevant
Skills and examples that match the advert
Two pages at most (one is fine early on)

Keep the layout simple

Some employers use software to read CVs before a person sees them. Clear headings, a standard font and simple layout are easier for both people and software to read than tables, text boxes or graphics.

Check your CV against a job

Free Job Match Analysis

Paste the job advert and see how well your CV matches it: a match percentage, your strengths, what to improve and what the employer asks for that your CV does not show yet. It is free and uses no credits.

Check my CV against a job

Want it done for you? One Application Credit gives you a tailored CV and cover letter for that job, written only from what your CV already says, plus the interview questions you are likely to be asked. See credits and pricing.

Questions about what to leave off

Should I put a photo on my CV in the UK?: No, unless the job specifically asks for one, such as some acting or modelling roles. Most UK employers do not expect a photo.
Should I put my age or date of birth on my CV?: No. Employers do not need it to decide whether to interview you, and leaving it off helps make sure you are judged on your skills and experience.
Do I need to list references?: No. You do not need to give referees' details or write “references available on request”. Employers will ask for references if they offer you the job.
Should I include my GCSEs if I have a degree?: A single line is enough, such as “9 GCSEs including English and Maths”. Give more detail to your most recent and highest qualifications.