Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Does It Matter If You Can Juggle?

Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Does It Matter If You Can Juggle?

When it comes to crafting the perfect resume, one of the most common questions job seekers ask is, “Do you put high school education on resume?” The answer, like many things in life, is not straightforward. It depends on a variety of factors, including your current level of education, the job you’re applying for, and how much space you have on your resume. But let’s dive deeper into this topic and explore the nuances of whether or not to include your high school education on your resume.

The Case for Including High School Education

1. Early Career or Entry-Level Positions

If you’re just starting out in your career and don’t have much work experience or higher education to showcase, including your high school education can be beneficial. It shows potential employers that you have a basic level of education and can be a stepping stone to more advanced roles.

2. Relevant Achievements

Did you graduate with honors, win any awards, or participate in extracurricular activities that are relevant to the job you’re applying for? If so, including your high school education can highlight these achievements and give you an edge over other candidates.

3. Gaps in Employment

If you have gaps in your employment history, listing your high school education can help fill those gaps and show that you were engaged in some form of productive activity during that time.

4. Cultural or Regional Expectations

In some cultures or regions, high school education is highly valued, and omitting it from your resume might be seen as a red flag. Research the norms in your area or industry to determine if including high school education is expected.

The Case Against Including High School Education

1. Higher Education Takes Precedence

If you have a college degree or higher, your high school education becomes less relevant. Employers are more interested in your most recent and advanced qualifications. In this case, it’s usually best to leave high school off your resume.

2. Limited Space

Resumes should ideally be one page long, especially for early-career professionals. If you’re struggling to fit all your relevant experience and education on one page, high school education is often the first thing to go.

3. Age and Experience

As you gain more work experience, the importance of your high school education diminishes. Employers are more interested in your professional accomplishments and skills than where you went to high school.

4. Irrelevance to the Job

If your high school education has no bearing on the job you’re applying for, it’s best to leave it off. For example, if you’re applying for a senior-level position in a specialized field, your high school diploma is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

How to Decide Whether to Include High School Education

1. Assess Your Current Situation

Consider your current level of education, work experience, and the job you’re applying for. If you’re early in your career or applying for an entry-level position, including high school education might be appropriate. If you’re further along in your career, it’s likely unnecessary.

2. Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application. If the job description emphasizes the importance of a high school diploma, include it. If not, consider leaving it off to make room for more relevant information.

3. Seek Feedback

Ask mentors, career advisors, or trusted colleagues to review your resume and provide feedback. They can offer valuable insights into whether or not including high school education is beneficial in your specific case.

Alternatives to Including High School Education

1. Focus on Skills and Achievements

Instead of listing your high school education, focus on the skills and achievements you’ve gained since then. Highlight relevant work experience, certifications, and any additional training that makes you a strong candidate.

2. Create a Separate Section for Education

If you decide to include your high school education, consider creating a separate section for it. This allows you to keep your resume organized and ensures that your most relevant qualifications stand out.

3. Use a Functional Resume Format

A functional resume focuses on your skills and experience rather than your chronological work history. This format can be particularly useful if you have gaps in your employment or if your high school education is not relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Conclusion

The decision to include high school education on your resume is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your individual circumstances, the job you’re applying for, and the norms in your industry. By carefully considering these factors and tailoring your resume accordingly, you can create a document that effectively showcases your qualifications and helps you stand out to potential employers.


Q: Should I include my high school education if I have a GED? A: Yes, you should include your GED on your resume, especially if you don’t have a college degree. A GED is equivalent to a high school diploma and shows that you have completed your basic education.

Q: How do I list my high school education on my resume? A: If you decide to include your high school education, list it in the education section of your resume. Include the name of your high school, the city and state, and your graduation date (if applicable).

Q: Can I leave my high school education off my resume if I have a college degree? A: Yes, if you have a college degree, it’s generally acceptable to leave your high school education off your resume. Employers are more interested in your higher education and professional experience.

Q: What if I didn’t graduate from high school? A: If you didn’t graduate from high school, you can still list any relevant coursework or certifications you completed. Alternatively, you can focus on your work experience and skills to demonstrate your qualifications.

Q: Is it ever necessary to include high school education on a resume for a senior-level position? A: It’s rare, but there may be some cases where including high school education is relevant, such as if you attended a prestigious high school or if the job specifically requires a high school diploma. However, in most cases, it’s unnecessary for senior-level positions.