1. Harvard CV Template: Style, Format, & Guide for 2025

Harvard CV Template: Style, Format, & Guide for 2025

Marta Bongilaj
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Pursuing a career in academia or targeting opportunities at top-tier institutions? Then, the Harvard CV template will help you present your achievements with clarity and impact.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the unique structure of the Harvard CV, offering focused tips and examples to help you create a document that truly reflects your academic and professional excellence.

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Harvard CV template for an entry-level candidate

 

James Edward Matthews

Phone: 079 2314 8821

Email: james.matthews@email.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-e-matthews

Website: www.jamesmatthewsportfolio.com

Personal statement

Recent graduate in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from the University of Oxford with strong academic grounding in public policy, international development, and economic theory. Passionate about applying economic and political analysis to real-world policy challenges. My undergraduate research explored the impact of universal basic income on labour incentives. Looking to begin a career in economic consultancy or policy research.

Education

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

University of Oxford

October 2020–June 2023

  • Focused on Political Philosophy, Development Economics, and Comparative Government.
  • Graduated with First-Class Honours.
  • Key achievements: Dissertation on “Universal Basic Income and Labour Market Behaviour”; Vice-President of the Oxford PPE Society; awarded the Policy Analysis Prize 2023.

A-Levels

St Peter’s College, Winchester

September 2018–June 2020

A* Economics, A* Mathematics, A* History, A English Literature.

Awarded Head Teacher’s Commendation for academic excellence.

Research interests

  • Economic policy and income support systems
  • International development and inequality
  • Behavioural economics and public incentives
  • Political economy of social welfare systems

Professional experience

Policy Intern

Resolution Foundation, London

July 2022–September 2022

  • Conducted research on the distributional effects of tax credits on low-income families.
  • Supported the creation of infographics and data reports for public briefings.
  • Assisted in policy brief drafting and stakeholder engagement materials.

Research Assistant (Part-time)

Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford

November 2021–April 2022

  • Supported data collection and literature reviews for a project on political accountability.
  • Co-authored internal summary papers used to shape programme outreach.

Publications

Matthews, J. (2023). “Universal Basic Income and the Labour Supply Decision: An Undergraduate Analysis.” Oxford Undergraduate Economics Review, 17(2), 45–58.

Conferences and presentations

Presenter at the Oxford Undergraduate Policy Symposium, 2023

Topic: “UBI and Employment Incentives: A New Perspective”

Panellist at the PPE Society Student Panel, 2022

Topic: “Future of Work and Automation: Political and Economic Implications”

Technical skills

  • Proficient in STATA and SPSS for basic data analysis
  • Familiar with Python and Excel for research and modelling
  • Experienced in Microsoft Office and LaTeX for academic writing

Soft skills

  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration across academic and professional projects
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Organisational and time management skills

Languages

  • English—Native
  • French—Conversational

Awards and scholarships

  • Policy Analysis Prize—Oxford PPE Department, 2023
  • Oxford Undergraduate Essay Competition Finalist, 2022

Extracurricular activities

Vice-President

Oxford PPE Society

October 2021–June 2023

  • Organised weekly speaker events with economists, politicians, and alumni.
  • Managed a team of 10 student volunteers and contributed to content strategy.

Volunteer Mentor

IntoUniversity, Oxford

September 2020–May 2023

  • Provided weekly academic mentoring to students from underrepresented backgrounds applying to the university.

 

Harvard CV template for an experienced professional

 

Dr. Rachel Eleanor Griffiths

Phone: 077 9831 5540

Email: rachel.griffiths@email.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-griffiths

Website: www.rachelegriffiths.com

Personal statement

Senior economist with over 12 years of experience in public policy research, consultancy, and academic teaching. Holds a PhD in Public Policy from the London School of Economics, specialising in welfare reform, tax systems, and labour market dynamics. Led multidisciplinary research teams and delivered evidence-based policy recommendations to government bodies and international institutions. Committed to using economic insights to shape more equitable and effective public policies.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Policy

London School of Economics

October 2010–June 2014

  • Thesis: “Evaluating the Impact of Welfare-to-Work Programmes in the UK.”
  • Supervised by Prof. Helen Williams.
  • Awarded the LSE Doctoral Prize for Policy Innovation.

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

University College London (UCL)

September 2008–July 2010

  • Focus on economics, data analysis, and policy design.
  • Graduated with Distinction.

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Economics

University of Bristol

September 2005–June 2008

  • Graduated with First-Class Honours.
  • Recipient of the Economics Faculty Award.

Research interests

  • Welfare reform and social protection
  • Labour market trends and workforce policy
  • Tax-benefit systems and inequality
  • Public sector efficiency and reform strategies

Professional experience

Senior Policy Advisor

Department for Work and Pensions, London

January 2019–Present

  • Lead analyst on Universal Credit impact assessments, influencing national budget decisions.
  • Oversaw cross-departmental economic modelling for labour policy proposals.
  • Briefed ministers and parliamentary committees on labour trends and recommendations.

Principal Economist

Institute for Government, London

August 2014–December 2018

  • Directed large-scale research projects on public service reform and employment programmes.
  • Published over 10 reports cited by think tanks, policymakers, and journalists.
  • Managed external relationships with HM Treasury and international partners.

Teaching Fellow (Part-time)

LSE Department of Government

October 2015–June 2020

  • Taught MSc courses in public policy analysis and economic evaluation.
  • Supervised over 20 postgraduate dissertations.

Publications

  • Griffiths, R. (2023). “Universal Credit and Work Incentives: Ten Years On.” Journal of Public Policy, 48(2), 123–145.
  • Griffiths, R., & Moore, L. (2021). “Reforming the Welfare State in the Age of Automation.” Social Policy Review, 42(3), 99–117.
  • Griffiths, R. (2018). “Cost-Benefit Analysis in the Real World: Lessons from UK Social Programmes.” Public Administration Review, 76(4), 305–320.

Conferences and presentations

Keynote Speaker at the UK Social Policy Summit, 2023

Topic: “Modern Welfare Design in a Changing Economy”

Presenter at the OECD Policy Forum, Paris, 2021

Topic: “Bridging the Employment Gap Through Tax Reform”

Guest Lecturer at the University of Manchester, 2020–2022

Topic: “Labour Market Transitions and Welfare Incentives”

Technical skills

  • Advanced data modelling using Stata, R, and SQL
  • Skilled in microsimulation models and policy evaluation tools
  • Proficient in Tableau, Power BI, and Excel for reporting and analysis
  • Expert in academic writing and LaTeX formatting

Soft skills

  • Strategic leadership and team management
  • Public speaking and stakeholder engagement
  • Strong writing and policy briefing skills
  • Adaptability and resilience in fast-paced environments

Languages

  • English—Native
  • German—Fluent
  • Spanish—Intermediate

Awards and scholarships

  • LSE Doctoral Prize for Policy Innovation—2014
  • Institute for Government Impact Award—2017
  • Best Research Publication, UK Public Administration Network—2020

Extracurricular activities

Mentor

Women in Economics Network

2018–Present

  • Support early-career economists through professional mentoring and workshops.

Board Member

Centre for Social Policy Research

2021–Present

  • Advise on research priorities and community outreach initiatives.

 

Want to study additional CV examples? See the list below:

What is a Harvard-style CV?

A Harvard CV is an academic document showcasing your intellectual achievements, research, and key qualifications. The Harvard CV template is used for academic or research opportunities and leadership roles in specialised industries. It emphasises your scholarly contributions and accomplishments.

Unlike a typical CV, a Harvard CV format delves into your scholarly contributions, showcasing your ability to push boundaries in your field. It should reflect both intellectual excellence and practical expertise, covering not only what you’ve achieved but also how you’ve shaped and engaged with the academic and professional communities.

 

Expert’s advice: If you’re applying for a job in the private sector, a classic CV will serve you better. Read this guide: How to write a CV

 

How to write a Harvard CV in a few steps

What sets you apart from other strong candidates? Is it your published research, your ability to lead collaborative projects, or the unique perspective you bring to your field? A Harvard CV is your opportunity to answer that question.

Here’s how to create the document that hopefully opens doors to your next exciting opportunity:

1. Format your Harvard CV template properly

It all starts with the proper CV formatting. A sharp, well-organised CV speaks volumes before a single word is read. Think of it as designing a research presentation—you want clarity, structure, and an engaging layout. Plus, the way your Harvard CV is formatted helps the reader quickly grasp your strengths.

Here’s a bunch of tested formatting tips to outline your Harvard-style CV correctly:

  • Keep your CV layout consistent and clean, with clear headings like Education, Research, and Experience.
  • Use bullet points to highlight key achievements, avoiding dense blocks of text.
  • Select a legible font, such as Calibri or Times New Roman, and maintain wide margins for optimal readability.
  • Limit your CV to 2–3 pages, focusing on the most relevant information for the role.
  • Ensure alignment of dates, locations, and titles for a polished, cohesive look.

Following these tips will cover a key part of preparing your Harvard CV format. A well-structured document highlights your most important achievements and demonstrates your ability to organise and present complex information—a skill valued in all academic roles.

2. Organise your contact information clearly

Place your contact information at the top of your Harvard CV so that employers or collaborators can easily reach you. Use a clean, professional format and include only essential details. Here’s an example inspired by the Harvard CV template:

Harvard CV template—header example

 

Dr. Emily Charlotte Turner

Phone: 078 7442 7331

Email: emily.turner@email.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emily-turner

Website: www.emilyturnerresearch.com

 

When you’re preparing a Harvard-style CV header, stick to these rules:

  • Full name: Use your full name, including titles like “Dr.” if applicable.
  • Address: Provide your full address, but you can exclude it if privacy is a concern.
  • Phone number: Use a number you actively monitor.
  • Email address: Ensure it’s professional, preferably using your full name.
  • LinkedIn/Professional website: Include links to a LinkedIn profile or personal website that showcases your work or research, if available.

This format keeps your contact details clear and professional while making it easy for employers to find the information they need at a glance.

3. Write a personal statement that captivates the reader

Think of your personal statement as the abstract of your CV. It’s a brief overview of your background, goals, and academic focus. It should highlight what motivates you and where you are headed, without listing every detail.

In your Harvard CV summary, clearly state who you are, what you’ve achieved so far, and what you want to do next. Avoid generic, ready-made academic personal statements you find online. Instead, craft a personalised summary that highlights your unique contributions and ambitions.

These tips will help you write a tailored CV summary:

  • Start with what defines you professionally or academically.
  • Highlight your key accomplishments, such as research breakthroughs, leadership roles, or impactful collaborations.
  • Conclude with your ambitions, emphasising how you can contribute to the institution or role you’re targeting.

Harvard CV template—personal statement example

 

PhD in Economics from the University of Cambridge with expertise in economic policy analysis, public finance, and the intersection of data analytics and policy implementation. My research focuses on designing evidence-based policies to address socio-economic challenges, with a particular interest in labour markets, income inequality, and fiscal reform. With a strong publication record and extensive experience in both academic and policy-driven environments, I aim to contribute to impactful research and consultancy roles in economics and public policy.

 

Keep this section short: ideally 4–6 sentences. Use it to set the tone for your Harvard CV. It should provide a brief overview that you will elaborate on in more detail throughout the rest of the document.

A strong CV summary will convince the recruiter you’re the perfect candidate. Save time and choose a ready-made personal statement written by career experts and adjust it to your needs in the LiveCareer CV builder.

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4. Describe your academic journey

Your education section is more than just a list of degrees. Put forward the foundations you’ve built to become an expert in your field. List your qualifications in reverse-chronological order and highlight key achievements or areas of focus at each stage.

In the education section of your Harvard CV, include key details such as:

  • The degree title, institution, and dates of study.
  • A brief description of your thesis, dissertation, or capstone project, showcasing its relevance to your current ambitions.
  • Academic honours or scholarships that underscore your achievements.
  • Notable modules or research topics that align with the role or field you’re pursuing.
  • Practical or fieldwork components that highlight how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world contexts.

Harvard CV template—education section example

 

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics

University of Cambridge

October 2019–September 2024

  • Research focused on labour market inequality and the economic impact of automation on job creation.
  • Thesis titled “The Future of Work: Automation, Employment, and Inclusive Economic Growth.”
  • Supervised by Prof. Robert Harris.
  • Key achievements: Cambridge Economic Research Fellowship (2021–2023); publication in leading economics journals.

Master of Science (MSc) in Public Economics

London School of Economics

September 2017–July 2019

  • Specialised in taxation, welfare policy, and fiscal systems in developed economies.
  • Dissertation: “Progressive Taxation Systems in the Context of Wage Polarisation.”
  • Graduated with Distinction and awarded the LSE Public Policy Prize.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)

University of Oxford

September 2014–June 2017

  • Focused on Political Economy, International Trade, and Development Economics.
  • Graduated with First-Class Honours.
  • Key achievements: Elected as President of the Oxford Economics Society; published a prize-winning essay on “The Role of Central Banks in Mitigating Financial Crises.”

 

After filling out this section of your Harvard CV, ask yourself: Does it clearly show your commitment to academic excellence? Consider adding relevant coursework, academic awards, study-abroad experiences, or additional research projects that demonstrate your dedication and expertise in your field.

5. Present your experience as impactful stories

Your professional and academic roles demonstrate how you’ve applied your skills and knowledge. Whether through research breakthroughs, innovative projects, or team collaborations, these roles highlight the impact you’ve made and the value you’ve added.

When describing your roles:

  • Focus on your key achievements, not just responsibilities. For example, instead of “Conducted data analysis,” write “Developed econometric models that identified key trends in regional economic disparities.”
  • Quantify where possible, such as “supervised 20 students” or “secured £50,000 in research funding.”
  • Highlight collaborations, leadership roles, or interdisciplinary work that demonstrates your versatility.

Harvard-style CV template—work experience section example

 

Research Fellow

University of Cambridge, Faculty of Economics

October 2020–Present

  • Conducted quantitative research on the effects of automation on labour markets and income distribution across Europe, analysing data from over 15 countries.
  • Published findings in top-tier journals such as Labour Economics and Economic Policy, with articles cited in over 50 academic publications.
  • Delivered policy recommendations to government stakeholders, contributing to reforms impacting over 5 million workers.
  • Participated in over 10 think tank workshops, fostering collaboration between academia and policymakers.

Economics Consultant

OECD, Paris

July 2019–December 2019

  • Contributed to the report “Inclusive Growth Strategies for 2030,” influencing policies adopted by multiple OECD member states.
  • Developed econometric models to assess the distributional impact of fiscal policies on income inequality, improving predictive accuracy by 20%.
  • Presented findings at three international forums attended by 100+ policymakers and academics.

Public Policy Intern

HM Treasury, London

June 2018–August 2018

  • Analysed the potential economic impact of proposed tax reforms, providing insights that informed policies affecting £50 billion in annual revenue.
  • Drafted briefing papers for senior officials, enhancing decision-making on regional economic disparity initiatives.
  • Supported workshops on fiscal policy coordination with over 30 cross-departmental participants.

 

This example is an excellent representation of how to structure a work experience section in your Harvard CV to highlight your contributions and impact. Each role is clearly outlined with a timeline and institution, and the descriptions focus on achievements rather than just duties.

6. Highlight skills that showcase your value

Now it’s time to showcase the technical tools, methodologies, and skills behind your achievements. The skills section of a CV is the perfect place for this. 

For example: If you’ve mastered a programming language, illustrate how you used it to analyse data or create research models. If you’ve honed exceptional communication skills, show how they enabled you to present findings at international conferences or collaborate effectively on interdisciplinary projects.

Include:

  • Specific software, programming languages, or technical tools you’ve mastered.
  • Transferable skills like public speaking, project management, or leadership.
  • Language proficiencies, especially if they add value to the role or field.

Organise your skills into categories to make them easier to scan. This ensures the reader quickly sees how you match their requirements.

Harvard style CV—skills example

 

Technical skills

  • Advanced econometric modelling using Stata, R, and Python
  • Expertise in data visualisation tools such as Tableau and Power BI
  • Proficiency in MATLAB and Excel for economic simulations and forecasting
  • Skilled in LaTeX for academic writing and document preparation

Soft skills

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Effective communication skills for both academic and policy audiences
  • Leadership and teamwork developed through academic societies and professional collaborations

 

You can separate technical skills and soft skills to create a clear distinction between your technical expertise and personal attributes, ensuring both are effectively highlighted.

7. Enrich your CV with supporting sections

Your Harvard-style CV can go beyond the basics to showcase the breadth of your experience and achievements. Consider adding tailored sections, as they can provide the reader with a more comprehensive understanding of who you are.

I recommend that you include:

  • Publications: Showcase articles, papers, or books you’ve authored.
  • Conferences and presentations: Highlight your engagement with the professional community.
  • Awards and honours: Detail recognitions that underscore your excellence.
  • Extracurricular activities: Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, or personal interests.
  • Research interests: Provide a snapshot of the areas you’re passionate about.

Harvard CV template—additional sections example

Publications

  • Turner, E. C. (2024). “Automation and Wage Inequality: Evidence from European Labour Markets.” Labour Economics, 58(3), 245–268.
  • Turner, E. C., & Harris, R. (2023). “The Role of Fiscal Policies in Reducing Income Inequality: A European Perspective.” Economic Policy, 42(1), 15–39.
  • Turner, E. C. (2022). “Technological Change and Employment: Balancing Growth with Inclusivity.” Journal of Economic Perspectives, 36(4), 55–75.

Conferences and presentations

Keynote Speaker, 2024 European Economics Conference, Brussels, Belgium

Presentation: Automation, Labour Markets, and Inclusive Growth in the 21st Century

Presenter, 2023 International Fiscal Policy Forum, London, UK

Presentation: Progressive Taxation and Wage Inequality: Designing Equitable Fiscal Systems

Panel Member, 2022 Cambridge Policy and Economics Forum, Cambridge, UK

Topic: Technological Innovation and Public Policy: Challenges for Policymakers

 

These sections provide essential context, showing your engagement both inside and outside your field. They demonstrate that you are a well-rounded candidate who combines technical expertise with active engagement, leadership skills, and strategic thinking.

Final touches to perfect your Harvard CV

A polished CV is more than the sum of its parts. Here’s how to make sure your Harvard CV leaves the best impression:

  • Tailor your CV: Align it with the role you’re applying for, highlighting the most relevant experience and skills.
  • Use action verbs: Choose words like “initiated,” “developed,” “led,” and “achieved” to describe your contributions.
  • Proofread thoroughly: Even small errors can undermine your professionalism. Review your CV carefully for accuracy.
  • Include references: Academic or professional references strengthen your credibility. Indicate that they’re “available upon request.”
  • Focus on clarity: Make sure your CV is easy to navigate, concise, and well-structured.

You don’t have to be a CV writing expert. In the LiveCareer CV builder you’ll find ready-made content for every industry and position, which you can then add with a single click.

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If you want to see more sample CVs, check these guides:

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

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About the author

Marta Bongilaj
Marta Bongilaj

Marta is a certified career expert with a marketing edge, offering strategic guidance to job seekers at every stage. She creates standout CVs and cover letters that help them land opportunities with confidence.

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