Sending a CV even if they don't ask for one?

[BeingThere]

In reading through the application materials required by some of my programs, I'm finding that many do not specifically request a CV.  I have not opened up any applications yet.  I've just read the instructions listed on the websites.  It is possible that within the online application, there will be an opportunity to upload a CV separate from a personal statement.

 

I would like to send a CV along with my personal statement because I have a lot to list.  My CV is three pages long.  If I had to cram it all in a two-page personal statement, it would leave me no room to state why I want to study I/O with that particular professor or my plans for after grad school.  I have to spend at least a couple of sentences explaining why I switched from a completely non-related major and career.

 

I'm applying to I/O programs but I'd appreciate experience from anyone.

 

Do you send a CV even when one isn't specifically asked for?  Or do you hope that within the application they will have a form which will ask you to list accomplishments?

 

I can get clarity by contacting the listed contact person for each program and ask them (all 14 of them!)  Just wanted to get a general idea here from folks who've gone through it.

Edited July 7, 2013 by Bren2014

[PsychGirl1]

Most of the time I did, if I was allowed to load "supplementary information". Some of the online application systems just ask you questions from your CV that you'd copy and paste, instead of loading a separate CV. Example- "please list your past research experiences and main responsibilities; please list your past eployment opportunities and main responsibilities; etc."

[mewtoo]

Many of the online applications list a section to upload a CV or supplementary materials (where you can also upload a writing sample). Upload it there. If they don't look at it, oh well, but if they do it can really enhance your app. If its old school and uses snail mail, just send it anyway, also. They aren't going to get mad if you send it and they didn't want it. At worst they will just throw them away.

[Quant_Liz_Lemon]

I had one program (Davis) that didn't allow me to upload anything, including a cv. So I emailed it to my PI. He seemed pleased enough with it...

 

They aren't going to get mad if you send it and they didn't want it. At worst they will just throw them away.