Recent Graduate CV example (no work experience)
This example shows how to build a credible, confident CV when you do not yet have paid work experience, using coursework, projects, volunteering and transferable skills instead.
Aisha Bello Lagos, Nigeria | aisha.bello.grad@example.com | +234 810 000 1122 Professional Summary Recent graduate in Economics with strong analytical and communication skills developed through coursework, a student consultancy project and volunteer leadership roles. Seeking an entry-level role in business analysis or research. Education BSc Economics, University of Lagos -- 2026 Relevant coursework: Statistics for Economics, Applied Econometrics, Business Analytics Final-year project: Analysed regional employment data for a 15,000-word dissertation on youth unemployment trends, achieving a First Class grade Projects & Leadership Student Consultancy Project, University of Lagos Business Clinic January 2026 -- April 2026 - Worked in a team of 4 to analyse survey data for a local small business client - Presented recommendations that the client adopted, resulting in a proposed 12% reduction in operating costs - Built data visualisations in Excel to communicate findings to a non-technical audience Treasurer, University Economics Society September 2024 -- April 2026 - Managed an annual budget of approximately NGN 400,000 for society events - Organised 3 guest speaker events, growing average attendance from 20 to 65 students Volunteer Tutor, Lagos Community Learning Programme June 2023 -- Present - Tutor secondary school students in mathematics for 3 hours weekly - Helped improve average test scores among a group of 8 students over one term Skills Excel (including pivot tables and basic modelling), data analysis, report writing, public speaking, teamwork, Microsoft Office
Leading with education and projects, not a blank experience section
When you do not have paid work experience, restructure your CV so education, projects and leadership roles come first and are treated with the same level of detail and achievement-based language as a job would be. A significant coursework project or dissertation is legitimate content, especially when you can describe a concrete result or grade.
Turning student activities into transferable skills
Being treasurer of a student society is genuine budget management experience. Organising an event is genuine project coordination experience. Tutoring is genuine teaching and patience under pressure. Describe these activities using the same achievement-based, quantified language you would use for a paid job.
What to do if you have no notable projects either
If you are early enough in your studies that you have no major projects yet, focus on relevant coursework by name, any part-time or casual work even if unrelated to your target field (it still demonstrates reliability and workplace basics), and be specific about the skills and interests driving your career choice in your summary.
Addressing the experience gap directly in a cover letter
Your CV can only do so much to compensate for a lack of formal experience. Pair it with a cover letter that explains your motivation and potential directly, rather than hoping the CV alone will make the case. See our guide on writing a cover letter with no experience for a full walkthrough.
Frequently asked questions
Should I include my GPA or degree classification?
Include it if it is strong or required by the employer; if it is not particularly strong, you can omit it and focus on projects and skills instead.
Can I include part-time or unrelated jobs?
Yes, especially early in your career, since any paid work demonstrates reliability, teamwork and basic workplace skills even if unrelated to your target field.
How long should a graduate CV be?
One page is appropriate for almost all graduate applications.
Is it okay to list group projects as achievements?
Yes, clearly note it was a group project and describe your specific role and contribution within it.