Does a Background Check Show If You Graduated High School?
As you apply for a job, you may wonder, “Does a background check show if you graduated high school?” It’s an understandable concern, especially if you don’t have a college degree or a GED. The answer is not always straightforward, as it depends on several factors.
In general, a background check will only reveal information that is relevant to the job you’re applying for. This includes your criminal record, credit history, and employment history. However, some employers may also request a copy of your high school diploma or GED certificate. This is more common for jobs that require a high school education or for jobs where the employer wants to verify your educational background.
Types of Background Checks
There are two main types of background checks: standard background checks and comprehensive background checks.
- Standard background checks: These checks typically include a criminal record search, a credit history check, and a employment history check. They usually do not include a check of your educational background.
- Comprehensive background checks: These checks include all the information in a standard background check, plus additional information such as your educational background, driving record, and social media history. They are more commonly used for jobs that require a higher level of security or trust.
How to Prepare for a Background Check
If you know that you will be subject to a background check, it is important to be prepared. Here are a few tips:
- Order a copy of your high school diploma or GED certificate: This way, you can provide it to the employer if they request it.
- Be honest about your educational background: If you do not have a high school diploma or a GED, be honest about it on your job application. Trying to hide this information could lead to you being disqualified for the job.
- Be prepared to explain any gaps in your educational history: If you took a break from school or did not finish high school, be prepared to explain this to the employer.
- Practice answering interview questions about your educational background: Be prepared to answer questions about your high school experience and your reasons for not completing high school or obtaining a GED.
Conclusion
Whether or not a background check shows if you graduated high school depends on the type of background check that is being conducted. Standard background checks typically do not include a check of your educational background, but comprehensive background checks do. If you are concerned about your educational background being revealed in a background check, it is important to be prepared. Order a copy of your high school diploma or GED certificate, be honest about your educational background, and be prepared to explain any gaps in your educational history.
Are you interested in learning more about background checks?
