How to Write a Great CV as a Student: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Creating a professional CV (Curriculum Vitae) as a student can seem intimidating, especially when you feel like you don’t have much experience. But the truth is, a great CV isn't about having the most experience — it's about presenting what you have in the most relevant, clear, and compelling way. Whether you're applying for internships, part-time jobs, scholarships, or volunteering positions, a well-structured CV can open doors.
In this article, you’ll learn how to write a great CV tailored to your current status as a student, how to highlight your skills and potential, and what recruiters and academic institutions are really looking for.
1. Understand the Purpose of a CV
A CV is a personal marketing document. It should showcase your:
- Education and qualifications
- Skills and competencies
- Achievements and projects
- Experience (even if limited)
- Interests relevant to the role or opportunity
It should not be a long biography. Instead, it’s a snapshot of your professional self — the version best suited for the role you’re applying for.
2. Choose the Right CV Format
As a student, the chronological format or functional (skills-based) format works best:
- Chronological CV: Emphasizes work experience and education history. Use this if you’ve had consistent education or part-time work.
- Functional CV: Focuses on skills and accomplishments. Ideal if you have limited formal experience but lots of transferable skills from volunteering, projects, or school leadership roles.
3. Start with Your Contact Information
This is basic but crucial. At the top of your CV, clearly state:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address (professional looking)
- LinkedIn profile or personal website (optional but recommended)
Example:
Sarah Mensah+233 20 123 4567sarah.mensah@gmail.comlinkedin.com/in/sarahmensah
4. Write a Powerful Personal Statement (Profile Summary)
This is a short paragraph (3–4 sentences) at the top of your CV summarizing:
- Who you are
- What you’re studying
- Your key strengths
- What you're looking for
Example:
Motivated final-year B.Ed. Mathematics student with strong analytical and communication skills. Proven leadership through roles in student organizations. Looking for an internship to apply my mathematical knowledge in real-world problem-solving environments.
5. Detail Your Education Background
As a student, your education is your strongest asset, so place it right after your personal statement.
Include:
- School name
- Degree name and major
- Dates attended (month & year)
- Honours, GPA (if strong), relevant coursework, and academic achievements
Example:
University of Education, Winneba
B.Ed. Science and Mathematics Education
Sept 2021 – Present
- GPA: 3.65/4.00
- Relevant courses: Calculus, Research Methods, Educational Technology
- Class Representative, 2022–2024
6. Add Work Experience (If Any)
If you've had any part-time jobs, internships, freelance gigs, or campus responsibilities, include them. Even if not directly related to your field, they show responsibility and time management.
Each job listing should include:
- Job title
- Employer name
- Dates
- Your responsibilities and achievements (bullet points)
Example:
Intern – Science Department
ROM International School, Accra
June 2023 – August 2023
- Assisted in preparing lesson materials for Basic 8 & 9 students
- Delivered two lessons weekly under supervision
- Graded student assignments and supported learners with difficulties
7. Highlight Your Skills
List relevant hard skills (technical skills) and soft skills (interpersonal skills). Use bullet points and make sure they’re tailored to the opportunity you're applying for.
Hard Skills Examples:
- Microsoft Excel & Word
- Data collection & analysis
- Canva graphic design
- Python (basic)
Soft Skills Examples:
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Leadership
- Team collaboration
8. Include Volunteering and Extracurricular Activities
This section is especially important if you have limited job experience. It can showcase leadership, initiative, or teamwork.
Example:
Treasurer, Science & Maths Club
University of Education
Sept 2022 – Present
- Managed club finances, budgeted for events, and prepared monthly reports
9. Certifications and Training (If Applicable)
Have you taken any short online courses or attended workshops?
Example:
- Coursera: "Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel" – March 2024
- Ghana Education Service: Classroom Management Workshop – Jan 2023
10. Achievements and Awards
Include academic awards, scholarships, recognition for outstanding work, or even competitions you’ve participated in.
Example:
- Best Science Student – Accra College of Education, 2022
- Winner – Inter-College Maths Quiz Competition, 2023
11. Interests (Optional)
This section adds personality, but should be relevant and not too generic. Avoid clichés like “reading” or “listening to music” unless you make it specific.
Example:
- Blogging on education-related topics
- Organising STEM outreach programs
- Exploring local science exhibitions
12. References (Optional or “Available on Request”)
You can either list two references or simply state:
“References available upon request.”
If you choose to list, include:
- Full name
- Position
- Organization
- Email and phone number
13. CV Writing Tips for Students
- Tailor your CV: Adapt your CV for each opportunity. Highlight what is most relevant.
- Keep it to one page (max two): Recruiters spend seconds scanning CVs.
- Use action verbs: Such as “managed,” “led,” “created,” “organised,” “assisted.”
- Proofread: Check for typos and formatting errors.
- Be honest: Never fake experience or grades — it can backfire.
14. Tools to Make Your CV Stand Out
- Canva: Has student CV templates for creative and academic roles.
- Zety / Novoresume / Resume.io: Online CV builders.
- Grammarly: Helps catch grammar and spelling mistakes.
15. Example CV Template for a Student
Conclusion
Writing a great CV as a student doesn’t require years of experience. It requires clarity, honesty, and smart presentation of what you’ve done so far. Use every opportunity — your coursework, volunteer work, student leadership, and internships — to tell a compelling story about your skills and potential.
With this guide, you’re not just creating a CV — you’re crafting your personal brand.
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