Whether to list high school on your resume depends on your highest level of education and how much experience you have. Here’s a quick way to decide, plus examples of how to format it.
When to Include High School
- You’re still in high school or recently graduated and applying for your first jobs.
- A high school diploma or GED is your highest qualification. Many jobs list it as a requirement, so show that you meet it.
- You’re in college but haven’t finished yet, and your high school achievements are strong or relevant (for example, a technical program).
- The job specifically asks for it, as some government and entry-level roles do.
When to Leave It Off
- You have a college degree, including an associate degree.
- You have several years of work experience, and your diploma adds nothing new.
Once you have a degree, your college education already tells employers you completed high school.
Example: High School Student
High School Diploma (expected)
Lincoln High School, Portland, OR | Expected June 2027
GPA: 3.8 · Honor Roll · Varsity Soccer Captain
Example: Diploma as Highest Qualification
High School Diploma
Central High School, Phoenix, AZ | 2021
Example: GED
General Educational Development (GED) Certificate
Ohio Department of Education | 2020
A GED is equivalent to a high school diploma for most employers. List it the same way.
What to Add If You Have Little Experience
If high school is your main qualification, strengthen the section with relevant details:
- Relevant classes (for example, accounting, computer science or a language)
- Clubs, sports or leadership roles
- Awards, honor roll or scholarships
- Volunteer work and certifications, such as first aid or food safety
For more on the education section in general, read how to put education on a resume.
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