When you’re a student, it’s important to showcase your academic achievements and future potential to employers. One way to do this is by including your expected graduation date on your resume. This can help employers understand your timeline and qualifications, and can also demonstrate your commitment to your education.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to put your expected graduation date on your resume, as well as some tips for making your resume stand out to potential employers.
How to Put Expected Graduation Date on Resume
When it comes to including your expected graduation date on your resume, there are a few different ways you can do it. Here are some options:
Option 1: Include your expected graduation date in your education section
If you have a section on your resume dedicated to your education, you can include your expected graduation date here. This is a great option if you’re still in school and haven’t yet graduated. Here’s an example:
University of XYZ
Expected Graduation Date: May 2024
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Option 2: Include your expected graduation date in your objective or summary statement
If you don’t have a dedicated education section on your resume, you can include your expected graduation date in your objective or summary statement. This is a great option if you’re looking to highlight your education and qualifications right at the top of your resume. Here’s an example:
Objective: To obtain a position in software engineering upon graduation in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of XYZ.
Tips for Making Your Resume Stand Out
Now that you know how to put your expected graduation date on your resume, here are some additional tips for making your resume stand out to potential employers:
1. Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for
One of the most important things you can do to make your resume stand out is to tailor it to the job you’re applying for. This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position, and using keywords from the job description throughout your resume.
2. Use strong action verbs
Using strong action verbs can help make your resume more engaging and dynamic. Instead of using passive language like “responsible for” or “involved in,” try using more active verbs like “created,” “managed,” or “led.”
3. Keep it concise
While it’s important to include all the relevant information on your resume, you also want to make sure it’s concise and easy to read. Try to keep your resume to one or two pages, and use bullet points and short paragraphs to break up the text.
4. Highlight your achievements
Finally, don’t forget to highlight your achievements on your resume. This can include things like academic awards, leadership positions, or volunteer work. By showcasing your accomplishments, you can demonstrate your potential to future employers.
FAQ
Q: Should I include my expected graduation date if I’m not sure when I’ll graduate?
A: If you’re not sure when you’ll graduate, it’s best to leave your expected graduation date off your resume. You don’t want to mislead potential employers or create confusion about your qualifications.
Q: What if I don’t have an expected graduation date?
A: If you don’t have an expected graduation date, you can still include your education on your resume. Just leave off the graduation date and include your degree and field of study.
Q: Can I include my GPA on my resume?
A: Yes, you can include your GPA on your resume if it’s above 3.0. However, if your GPA is lower than 3.0, it’s best to leave it off.
Q: Should I include my high school education on my resume?
A: Generally, you don’t need to include your high school education on your resume unless you’re a recent high school graduate or it’s directly relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Q: What if I have a gap in my education?
A: If you have a gap in your education, it’s best to be honest about it on your resume. You can explain the gap in your cover letter or during an interview.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a