Are you stuck on the education section of your resume? Always put your best foot forward on a resume. Don’t miss these vital tips for listing your education.

Trying to spruce up your resume? If so, you’ll want to make sure that the education section reads well.

For many employers, education is the key resume section. It lets them know about your background, which helps determine your fit for their organization. With the right credentials, this section will set you apart from other candidates.

Wondering what’s the best way to present the education section of a resume? That’s why we’re here! Here are the main things you’ll need to consider.

Education Section Placement

The main purpose of your resume is to present yourself in the best light possible. This goes for the education section as well.

If you’re a student or recent college graduate, you likely have limited work experience. In this case, you’ll want to put the education section near the top of your resume. That way, you can emphasize your academic achievements.

Have you been out of school for several years or longer? If so, consider putting the education section near the bottom of your resume. Of course, this is only true if you can impress your potential employer with your work experience.

What to Include

An education section must contain some essential information. This includes your degree, the school(s) you attended, and your contact information.

Then, provide some particulars, such as your major and minor. If your GPA is solid enough (3.5 or higher), mention that as well. You can also include the year you graduated, though this isn’t required.

Make sure to include any relevant awards or honors you’ve received. Keep in mind that we’re using the word “relevant” in a loose sense. For instance, holding a leadership role in an extracurricular club is worth mentioning.

If you have incomplete education, boost this section with completed coursework. Any professional certifications and development courses can fit the bill.

Additional Tips

Once you’ve settled on the template, move on to the finishing touches. Here are some examples.

• Consider subsections.If you’re strong in one area, you should do your best to highlight it. For instance, you can create a subsection for your certifications or professional development.
• Be specific.In many professions, having a specific degree is essential to getting the job. If you’re applying for one such job, place your education right under the summary and contact information.
• Keep a copy.Before submitting your resume, keep a copy of it for future reference. This is the same principle that applies to buying a diplomafor your wall. The real thing is too important to get lost in the shuffle.
• Tell the truth.Remember, the information you put on your resume is very easy to confirm. All your employer needs to do is to check your transcript. This is why it’s always better to leave stuff out instead of making it up.

More on Presenting the Education Section of a Resume

The main takeaway here is to tailor the education section to fit your circumstances. When deciding on content and placement, think of what you want to accomplish. Above all, be honest and strategic.

Want to know more about the importance of the education section of a resume? Looking to identify resume mistakes that can cost you the job? Check out our “Education” section!