In today's competitive job market, where many students compete for the same roles, a polished resume is essential for attracting potential employers. And it all starts with choosing the right resume format for students.
So, what exactly is a resume format for students? Think of it as a structured way to highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, projects, and any internships or volunteer experiences.
As you create your resume, the process can feel overwhelming. With so many formats to choose from — chronological, functional, and combination — it can be hard to know which is best for you.
To make things easier, let’s break down each resume format together.
The chronological format lists your experiences from the most recent to the oldest.
The functional format focuses on your skills rather than a timeline
The combination format merges both approaches.
Hands-down, a chronological resume is the best resume format for students.
So, ready to create a standout student resume that sets you apart? Dive into this informative guide and start building your career!
Steps to Write a Stellar Student CV in 2025
Creating a standout student CV in 2025 can feel like an adventure, especially with the right approach.
It all starts with understanding the right resume format for students and then tailoring it to fit each opportunity. When you research and customize your application, you'll present yourself as a strong candidate to potential employers.
Here are the steps to help you craft a stellar student CV!
Step 1: Choose the Right Resume Format for Students
First things first, you need to pick the correct resume format for students. And as discussed already, chronological resume format wins the race as an ideal format for college students with no prior job experience.
Here are some compelling reasons that make the chronological resume format for students shine.
It highlights your education and relevant experiences.
Hiring managers can quickly see your qualifications.
It tells a cohesive story of your academic journey.
Here are the key sections (and their examples) of thechronological resume format.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Mumbai University, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Expected Graduation: May 2025
Experience:
Software Development Intern
ABC Tech Solutions, Mumbai, Maharashtra
June 2024 - August 2024
Developed a mobile app that improved user engagement by 30%.
Implemented features based on user feedback, resulting in a 25% increase in daily active users.
Once you've decided on the student CV template, it's time to add your contact information.
Place this section at the top of your CV, including your full name, phone number, professional email, and a LinkedIn profile or personal website if available.
Example:
Rishi Malhotra
1234 Elm Street
Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560001
India
+91 1234567890
rishi@email.com
linkedin.com/in/rishi
Step 3: Write the Resume Objective or Summary
Now that your contact information is ready, it is time to write your resume objective or summary. This section is your chance to stand out!
While objectives and summaries are often confused, they serve different purposes.
An objective outlines your career goals and what you aim to achieve in a specific job, typically in one or two sentences.
A summary highlights your skills, experience, and qualifications, providing a brief overview of your background in three to four sentences.
Here are examples for both objective and summary.
Objective:
Motivated computer science student eager to secure a software development internship where I can apply my programming skills. Excited to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative environment.
Summary:
Motivated college student with strong skills in marketing, copywriting, and brand management. Gained experience creating advertising campaigns through active involvement in student organizations. Eager to join an advertising agency and apply these skills in a real-world setting.
Now we get to the fun part that is highlighting your skills and experiences. This is what makes your CV truly impressive!
Here's how to organize it.
Create a bullet-point list of your key skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, technical skills).
Include internships, volunteer work, and part-time jobs that relate to your field.
Use action verbs to describe what you did and the impact you made.
Here are a few examples.
Skills:
Strong written and verbal communication.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite.
Social media management and content creation.
Experience:
Marketing Intern
XYZ Marketing Agency, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
June 2024 - August 2024
Assisted in developing social media strategies that increased engagement by 25%.
Conducted market research to identify trends and customer preferences.
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Step 6: Introduce Optional Sections to Enhance Your Resume
Finally, consider adding optional sections to enhance your CV and make it even more impressive. These extras can help paint a fuller picture of who you are:
Projects:
Highlight academic or personal projects that demonstrate your skills.
Certifications:
List any relevant certifications or completed courses.
Interests:
Mention hobbies or interests that relate to the job or showcase your personality.
Here are a few highlight examples of the same.
Projects:
Developed a website for a local nonprofit, increasing online donations by 40%.
Created a marketing campaign for a school event, achieving 150% attendance.
Playing video games, hiking, and exploring nature.
Still feeling intimidated with so many things to take care of when writing a student resume? Fret not – UpGrad is here to help you. Explore our professional resume writing services, and stand out from the crowd.
Chronological College Resume Examples for Different Situations
Mastering the chronological college resume format for students involves customization. Each opportunity — whether an internship or a part-time job — requires highlighting relevant skills and experiences. By understanding the unique requirements of each role, you can showcase your academic achievements and stand out to hiring managers
Now, explore how to ace the resume format for students for different situations with students CV templates customized for unique scenarios.
Student CV Template 1: College Student Resume for an Internship
Here is a resume format for students to follow when applying for internships, showcasing education, skills, and relevant experience to impress potential employers.
Aditi Sharma
Student
456 Maple Lane, New Delhi, 110001
Delhi, India
+91 1245097654
aditi.sharma@email.com
Summary: Enthusiastic Computer Engineering student with experience in software development and web design, proficient in Java, Python, and C++. Seeking an internship to apply technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities while eager to learn and grow in a professional environment.
Education: Bachelor of Computer Science | Expected Graduation: May 2025
University of Delhi, New Delhi
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Web Development, Database Management
GPA: 3.8
Experience: Software Development Intern Web Solutions Co., New Delhi | June 2023 – November 2023
Assisted with the development of a web application using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Developed skills in user interface design and responsive web design.
Contributed to a 20% increase in user engagement through improved layout and functionality.
Skills:
Strong communication skills
Proficient in Java, Python, and SQL
Experience with version control systems like Git
Projects: Personal Portfolio Website
Developed a personal website showcasing projects and skills, utilizing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Implemented interactive elements, such as a contact form and image gallery, using JavaScript for improved functionality.
Extracurricular Activities: Computer Science Club | Member September 2022 – Present
Participated in coding competitions
Organized workshops for fellow students
References: Anjali Verma
Internship Coordinator, Web Solutions Co.
123 Innovation Avenue, New Delhi, 110002
Delhi, India
+91 98765 66666
anjali.verma@email.com
Student CV Template 2: Resume Format for Students for a Part-time Job
Use this resume format if you are a student seeking part-time jobs to showcase your skills and experiences effectively.
Rohan Mehta
Student
789 Ocean Drive, Mumbai, 400001
Maharashtra, India
+91 1234567890
rohan.mehta@email.com
Summary: Dedicated college student with a strong work ethic and good time management skills. Experienced in customer service and volunteer coordinator from previous jobs. I’m seeking a part-time position to apply my communication skills while managing my studies. I am eager to be a positive addition to the team.
Education: Bachelor of Commerce | Expected Graduation: January 2025
Mumbai University. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Relevant Coursework: Marketing, Business Management, Financial Accounting
CGPA: 8.0/10
Experience: Volunteer Coordinator Local NGO, Mumbai | May 2024 – July 2024
Supported the team in organizing community outreach programs.
Conducted surveys and compiled feedback for program improvement.
Assisted in fundraising events, contributing to a 30% increase in donations.
Skills:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Adaptable to fast-paced work environments.
Extracurricular Activities: Student Council | Member December 2022 – Present
Participated in organizing campus events.
Organized workshops to enhance student engagement.
References:
Priya Nair
Local NGO
456 Commerce Street, Mumbai, 400002
Maharashtra, India
priya.nair@email.com
+91 87654 00000
Student CV Template 3: First-year College Student Resume
This resume template is for you as a first-year college student looking for job opportunities. It highlights your academic achievements, skills, and extracurricular activities, allowing you to showcase your potential even with limited experience.
Priya Kapoor
Student
321 College Road, New Delhi, 110025
Delhi, India
+91-1234567890
priya.kapoor@email.com
Summary: Motivated first-year college student studying Computer Science with a GPA of 3.8. I am actively involved in coding clubs and hackathons. I am looking for opportunities to gain experience and develop my skills in software development.
Education: Bachelor of Arts in English Literature | Expected Graduation: May 2027 Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
Relevant Courses: Introduction to Literature, Creative Writing, Communication Skills.
Participated in various literary events and workshops to develop writing and analytical skills.
Skills:
Strong written and verbal communication
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint),
Basic knowledge of social media management
Ability to work collaboratively and independently
Time management and organizational skills
Extracurricular Activities: Member Literary Club | May 2024 – Present
Participated in organizing poetry readings and literary discussions.
Contributed articles to the club newsletter.
References:
Sameer Ali
Academic Advisor, Jamia Millia Islamia
456 Maple Lane, New Delhi, 110001
+91-0123456789
sameer.ali@email.com
Student CV Template 4: College Student Resume for Scholarship
This scholarship resume template helps you showcase your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. By highlighting your strengths and dedication, you can make a strong impression on scholarship committees.
Use this template to effectively present your qualifications and stand out in the scholarship application process.
Suresh Reddy
Student
987 Scholar Lane, Chennai, 600036
Tamil Nadu, India
+91 0123456789
suresh.reddy@email.com
Summary:
High-achieving college student studying Computer Science with a strong academic record and Dean's List honors. Actively involved in tech clubs and coding competitions, showcasing leadership and a commitment to innovation. Seeking opportunities to advance my education and contribute to new technological solutions.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Expected Graduation: February 2025
Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
GPA: 9.5/10
Relevant Coursework:
Data Structures and Algorithms
Database Management Systems
Web Development
Software Engineering
Honors and Awards:
National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) Scholar, 2021
University Merit Scholarship, 2022
Winner, Inter-College Coding Competition, 2023
Extracurricular Activities:
Computer Science Club, Member August 2022 – Present
Collaborated with peers on coding projects.
Organized workshops on emerging technologies.
NSS (National Service Scheme), Volunteer January 2023 – June 2023
Participated in community service initiatives, including cleanliness drives and educational workshops for underprivileged children.
Organized fundraising events to support local charities and community programs.
Skills:
Proficient in Java, Python, and C++
Strong problem-solving abilities
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
References
Neelam Singh
Scholarship Committee Member, IIT Chennai
321 Scholar Street, Chennai, 600037
Tamil Nadu, India
+91 12345 67890
neelam.singh@email.com
Student CV Template 5: Nursing Student Resume
This student resume format for students allows you to showcase your clinical experience, academic achievements, and essential skills. By focusing on your dedication and readiness for the nursing profession, you can present yourself as a strong candidate prepared to make a difference in healthcare.
Neha Desai
Student
321 Health Avenue, Bhopal, 462001
Madhya Pradesh, India
+91 54321 09876
neha.desai@email.com
Summary: Caring nursing student with hands-on experience in different healthcare settings, including working with children and the elderly. Skilled in patient care and teamwork. I want to use my knowledge and skills in nursing to provide great care while continuing to develop in the nursing field.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc Nursing) | Expected Graduation: April 2025 All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Relevant Coursework:
Anatomy and Physiology
Nursing Fundamentals
Pharmacology
Health Assessment
Community Health Nursing
Clinical Experience: Nursing Intern ABC Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | June 2024 – August 2024
Assisted registered nurses in providing patient care and monitoring vital signs.
Participated in patient assessments and documented care plans.
Educated patients and families about post-discharge care.
Certifications:
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification | Indian Red Cross Society | Valid until: June 2025
CPR Certification | Indian Red Cross Society | Valid until: June 2025
Skills:
Patient Care
Effective Communication
Team Collaboration
Time Management
Critical Thinking
Basic Computer Skills
Volunteer Experience: Volunteer Nurse Assistant Local Health Clinic, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | September 2023 – Present
Supported nursing staff in various tasks, including patient intake and record management.
Helped organize community health fairs to promote wellness and preventive care.
This law student resume template is designed to highlight your legal education, relevant experiences, and skills. Use this resume format for students to effectively present your qualifications and demonstrate your potential as a future legal professional.
Karan Gupta
Student
654 Justice Road, New Delhi, 110003
Delhi, India
+91 98765 43211
karan.gupta@email.com
Summary: Ambitious law student interested in intellectual property law and technology. I have experience in legal research and writing through internships at law firms and participation in moot court competitions. I am looking for opportunities to apply my skills to gain practical experience and help the legal community.
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) | Expected Graduation: July 2025 National Law University, Delhi
Relevant Coursework:
Constitutional Law
Contract Law
Criminal Law
Property Law
Legal Research and Writing
Legal Experience: Intern Law Firm Associates, New Delhi | June 2024 – August 2024
Assisted attorneys in legal research and case preparation.
Drafted legal documents, including memos and contracts.
Attended client meetings and observed court proceedings.
Certifications:
Certificate in Legal Research | Mumbai University | Issued: May 2023
Mediation Certification | Indian Institute of Mediation | Valid until: May 2025
Skills:
Legal Research
Writing and Drafting
Communication
Analytical Thinking
Time Management
Teamwork
Extracurricular Activities: Member Law Society, National Law University | September 2020 – Present
Participated in organizing workshops and seminars on legal topics.
Engaged in mock trials to improve advocacy skills.
This resume format for students is a tailored template, suitable for you as a student in any branch of engineering. It highlights your academic qualifications, practical skills, and relevant project experiences, allowing you to stand out in a competitive environment.
This template allows you to present your engineering expertise and accomplishments effectively.
Srinidhi H V
Student
135 Innovation Road, Vellore, 632014
Tamil Nadu, India
srinidhi@email.com +91 9191919191
Summary: Motivated Mechanical Engineering student with a strong background and experience in project work. I have helped design automated bottle-filling machines and solar-powered cars and know how to use CAD software. I am eager to use my skills and gain practical experience in the engineering field.
Education: Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering | Expected Graduation: April 2025 Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Relevant Coursework:
Thermodynamics
Fluid Mechanics
Engineering Materials
Mechanical Design
Dynamics and Control
Projects: Automated Bottle Filling Machine
Designed and developed a fully automated bottle filling machine as part of a team project.
Utilized CAD software for modeling and simulation, enhancing the design process.
Conducted tests and adjustments, resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency.
Solar-Powered Car
Collaborated on a project to design a solar-powered car, focusing on energy efficiency and weight reduction.
Researched and implemented lightweight materials to optimize performance.
Presented findings at the annual engineering expo, receiving positive feedback.
Internships: Mechanical Engineering Intern Z Engineering Solutions, Vellore, Tamilnadu | June 2024 – August 2024
Assisted senior engineers in designing mechanical systems for various projects.
Conducted material testing and analysis, contributing to project development.
Prepared technical reports and presentations for client meetings.
Skills:
Proficient in CAD Software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
Excellent Problem-Solving Skills.
Strong Communication and Teamwork.
Time Management and Organization.
Extracurricular Activities:
Member of the Mechanical Engineering Society, organizing workshops and guest lectures.
Participated in university-level robotics competitions, enhancing technical and teamwork skills.
This computer science student resume template is designed to help you showcase your technical skills and academic accomplishments in a way that catches the eye of hiring managers.
By following this resume format for students, you can effectively highlight your programming expertise, projects, internships, and relevant coursework, making it easier for employers to recognize your potential in the tech industry.
Vikram Singh
Student
246 Tech Park, Kanpur, 208016
Uttar Pradesh, India
+91 1244556677
vikram.singh@email.com linkedin.com/in/xyz
Summary:
Motivated computer science student with a solid programming background and experience in developing software, including a portfolio website and inventory management system. I seek opportunities to apply my expertise and contribute to innovative projects.
Education:
Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science | Expected Graduation: May 2025 Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Database Management, Web Development, Software Engineering
Engaged in collaborative projects to design and develop software applications, promoting teamwork and practical problem-solving skills
Tools & Technologies: Git, Visual Studio Code, Eclipse
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Projects:
Personal Portfolio Website
Developed a personal portfolio website to showcase projects and skills using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Implemented responsive design for optimal viewing on various devices.
Inventory Management System
Created a web-based inventory management system using Java and MySQL.
Enabled users to track product stock levels and generate reports.
Internships:
Software Development Intern ABC Tech Solutions, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh | June 2023 – August 2023
Assisted in developing software solutions for client projects.
Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot and optimize existing applications.
Extracurricular Activities:
Member Computer Science Club, IIT Kanpur | August 2022 – Present
Participated in coding competitions and hackathons to enhance programming skills.
Attended workshops on emerging technologies and industry trends.
References:
Maya Sharma
Course Instructor, IIT Kanpur
135 Developer Drive, Kanpur, 208017
Uttar Pradesh, India
+91 1234567890
maya.sharma@email.com
Student CV Template 9: MBBS Student Resume
This MBBS student resume template highlights your medical education and experience as you near graduation in 2025. With this resume format for students, you can showcase your clinical rotations, academic achievements, and any research or volunteer work.
Tanvi Joshi
Student
369 Medical Lane, Bengaluru, 560001
Karnataka, India
tanvi.joshi@email.com
Summary: Compassionate MBBS student with a strong academic foundation and clinical experience, currently completing rotations in internal medicine and surgery. I have experience in patient assessments. I seek an opportunity in a progressive healthcare environment to utilize my medical knowledge and support patient care.
Education: Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka Expected Graduation: March 2025
Relevant Coursework:
Anatomy
Physiology
Biochemistry
Pharmacology
Pathology
Microbiology
Clinical Experience: Intern City Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka | January 2024 – Present
Assisted in conducting patient examinations and gathering medical histories.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to formulate patient care plans.
Participated in clinical rounds, presenting patient cases to senior physicians.
Volunteer Medical Assistant Local Health Camp, Bengaluru, Karnataka | June 2023 – December 2023
Supported community health initiatives, including vaccination drives and health screenings.
Educated patients on health maintenance and preventive care practices.
Research Experience: Research Assistant University Research Lab, Bengaluru, Karnataka | September 2022 – May 2023
Assisted in clinical research on the effects of exercise on cardiovascular health, contributing to data collection and analysis.
Co-authored a paper on “The Impact of Physical Activity on Heart Disease,” presented at the Indian Society of Cardiovascular Disease Conference.
Skills:
Patient Care
Medical Terminology
Communication
Team Collaboration
Time Management
References:
Dr. K Suresh Babu
Consultant Physician, KEM Hospital
654 Health Avenue, Bengaluru, 560002
Karnataka, India
+91 1234567890
suresh.babuk@email.com
Now that you have explored some valuable chronological college resume examples for different situations, it is time to jump into the dos and don'ts of crafting your student CV.
Dos and Don'ts When Writing a Student CV
By following some easy tips, you can effectively highlight your skills and experiences in a way that catches the attention of hiring managers.
Take a look at some helpful practices that will enable you to build a polished resume that truly showcases your talents.
What Mistakes to Avoid in a Student Resume?
As you work on your student resume, be mindful of these common mistakes that can hold you back.
Spelling and Grammar Errors:
Always double-check your work to ensure it's error-free.
Using a Generic Template:
While it might be tempting to use the same resume for every application, customizing it shows that you're genuinely interested in the position.
Excessive Length:
Keep your resume to one page, especially if you're early in your career.
Overloading with Information:
Highlight only the most relevant experiences and skills.
Using Unprofessional Font Styles:
Avoid using Comic Sans, as it is often seen as unprofessional.
Not Following Proper Margin Guidelines:
Avoid setting margin sizes that are too small (less than 0.5 inches) or too large (more than 1 inch).
To ensure your student CV stands out, make sure to include these key elements:
Contact Information:
Start with your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile if you have one.
Objective:
Write a short statement about your career goals and what you can offer.
Education Section:
List your degree, major, university, and expected graduation date. If you've taken relevant courses or received honors, include those too.
Relevant Experience:
Highlight internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Focus on what you did and the positive outcomes of your efforts.
Skills Section:
Include both hard and soft skills that relate to the job.
References:
Add at least two people who can vouch for your skills and character. Make sure to ask them first!
Use Professional Fonts:
Opt for Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri, using 10–12 points for body text and 14–16 points for headings. Maintain line spacing of 1.15 to 1.5.
Still feeling overwhelmed? Watch out UpGrad’s YouTube Video and get insider tips on the do’s and don’ts of a stellar resume that will help you get your dream role.
Conclusion
Creating a standout student CV is key to making a great impression on potential employers in 2025.
With the right guidance and effort, you can strengthen your opportunities in your field. By showcasing your skills, experiences, and education, the right resume format for students (Chronological resume) can effectively communicate your strengths.
Ready to take the next step? Explore UpGrad's wide range of courses and 50+ specializations tailored for your growth. Whether you want to build new skills or explore a different career path, upGrad is here to support you.
Q. How often should I update my resume as a student?
Regularly update your resume after completing new courses, internships, or volunteer work, and revise it before applying for new positions.
Q. Is it necessary to include my GPA on my resume?
Including your GPA is optional. If it is firm (generally 3.0 or higher) and you are early in your academic career, consider adding it.
Q. What is the difference between a resume and a CV?
A resume is a summary of your education and experience, usually one page, while a CV is more detailed and includes academic accomplishments and research.
Q. Should I list high school education on my college resume?
As a first-year college student, it's acceptable to include high school education but focus on college achievements as you progress.
Q. Can I use informal language in my student resume?
No, maintain a professional tone and avoid informal language to create a strong impression.
Q. How do I quantify my accomplishments on my resume?
Use specific numbers and details, such as "increased fundraising by 30%" or "managed a team of fifteen students."
Q. What should I do if I have little or no work experience?
Highlight your education, skills, volunteer work, and relevant projects or extracurricular activities that showcase your abilities.
Q. How important is formatting in a student resume?
Formatting is crucial. A clean, organized layout makes your resume easier to read and leaves a positive impression.
Q. Should I include a hobbies or interests section on my resume?
Include hobbies section if it adds value and showcases skills relevant to the job, but it is not essential.
Q. How do I handle gaps in my experience on my resume?
Briefly explain gaps in your cover letter, and focus on the key skills and experiences you gained during that time in the actual resume.
Q. What can I do to make my resume stand out?
Tailor your resume for each job, use action verbs, quantify your achievements, and include relevant keywords from the job description.
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