Your CV is growing beyond one page. Before deleting important experience or shrinking the font, check the application instructions. Let the content guide the length. A short CV still needs to explain your background clearly and truthfully.
Putting guidelines in context
The UZH website recommends not exceeding two to three pages. Its 2025 presentation usually suggests one to two; it sets no fixed limit for academic CVs.
This is not a universal rule for every application. Follow any page limit or format specified by the employer. For academic applications, also check the requirements for publication and project lists.
Select content instead of squeezing it in
One page may work when you are starting your career and your education, relevant practice and skills fit comfortably. With several relevant roles, a second page can help explain your tasks and contributions. Do not fill it with repetition.
For example, you are applying for a customer service role. Describe a relevant task concretely, such as “Received customer enquiries by phone and forwarded them for processing” — but only if you actually did this. You can describe less relevant earlier tasks more briefly. Keep employment dates and actual roles accurate.
Your three-question check
- Does the job advertisement specify a length or format? Note that requirement first.
- Are relevant tasks and experience explained clearly? Remove repeated statements before deleting an important example.
- Is the exported PDF easy to read? Check the font, page breaks and any almost-empty last page.
Then compare your shorter and longer versions. For this particular application, choose the one that is easier to read and contains the relevant information. Page count alone says nothing about automated screening or your chances of success.
Check the finished file too
Whatever tool you use, the final check remains your responsibility. Review the exported file after each substantial text change. You can find information about PARAT on the PARAT homepage.
