If you need to write a resume in Spanish to apply for a school or a job in Spain you should be aware that resume layout and details vary from country to country and your resume will be better received if it is consistent with Spanish style.
In Europe the title Curriculum is more commonly used than Resume. The aim of all resumes/curriculums is to present a summary of a person’s background and skills as clearly and effectively as possible. When you write a resume in Spanish you will need to pay particular attention to differences in cultural terminology, find your equivalent grades in Spain, and include a photograph.
Write in Spanish
Unless requested, you should write your resume in Spanish if you are applying to study or work in Spain. Resumes can be quite technical so it is a good idea to ask a native Spanish speaker to assist you. When you write a resume in Spanish, or any other language, it is important that it stands out, is free of errors, and is completely honest. It should be no longer than two sides of A4 and concisely structured with bullet points rather than wordy paragraphs.
Order of your Spanish resume
- Personal Details (Datos Personales): full name, nationality, current address, email address, telephone number, NIE (identity number for foreigners – if you are already living in Spain).
- Photo (Foto): passport style photo in the top right corner, beside your personal details.
- Work Experience (Experiencia Profesional): list of jobs held in reverse chronological order, with start and finish dates, job title, responsibilities, tasks, and names and addresses of organisations.
- Education (Formación Académica): list of courses taken in reverse chronological order from secondary school onward, with start and finish dates, grades for your country and the equivalent grades for Spain, and names and addresses of institutions.
- Other Qualifications (Formación Complementaria): list of any other qualifications or commendations.
- Skills (Habilidades): list of any relevant skills such as IT knowledge and driving licence.
- Languages (Idiomas): list of languages spoken, including your mother tongue, and details of your current level and any certifications. Use the Common European Framework of Reference for languages to grade your current level (A1/basic – C2/fluent).
- Interests (Aficiones): list of interests and activities that are relevant to the application.
As you can see there are not so many major differences to be aware of when you write a resume in Spanish. Resumes are fairly standard around the world. However, the layout, style and content of a Spanish resume is certainly distinct and your application will stand a much better chance of being accepted if it is presented in a similar way.
