Show Verified Learning and Credentials
List your official degree or program name, institution, and current status under an Education heading. Add an expected graduation date when you have a realistic estimate. If you stopped studying, describe the coursework you completed rather than presenting the degree as earned or still in progress.
[Degree/Program Name] — In progress | [Institution Name] | [Expected Graduation Date, if known]
Optional: [Relevant Coursework] | [Current GPA if high]
Include an Expected Graduation Date When Known
A realistic "Expected [Month, Year]"helps recruiters understand when you expect to complete your studies. If only the year is known, use "Expected [Year]." If the timing is uncertain, say "In progress" or "Currently enrolled" and leave out an estimated completion date. Do not invent a date to fill the template.
This wording clarifies your status; it does not guarantee how an ATS will read or assess your resume. Follow any education and date instructions in the application form.
State the Degree You Are Pursuing
Use the official title of the program, such as "Bachelor of Science in Computer Science," and make clear that it is in progress. The same approach works for a diploma or certificate program. Only describe a qualification as awarded or completed after you have earned it.
Include Relevant Coursework
If you have limited work experience, a few subjects or projects relevant to the job can help show what you have learned. Distinguish completed coursework from subjects you are currently taking, and leave out courses you have not started.
Education in Progress and Unfinished Degree Examples
These are illustrative templates, not records of a real applicant. Replace the institution, program, dates, and coursework with your own accurate details.
Example: Degree with an Expected Graduation Date
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
[University Name]
Expected Graduation: May 2027
Completed Coursework: Data Structures, Web Development, Database Management
Example: Graduation Date Not Yet Known
Bachelor of Business Administration — In progress
[University Name]
Currently enrolled
Completed Coursework: Business Communication, Introduction to Accounting
Use this format only if you are currently studying. Add an expected completion date later when you can reasonably estimate it. If you are no longer enrolled, use an unfinished-study format instead.
Example: Unfinished Degree When You Are No Longer Enrolled
Coursework toward a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
[University Name] | Attended 2022–2024
Degree not completed
Completed Coursework: Programming Fundamentals, Database Management
Include unfinished study when it helps explain relevant knowledge or experience. List the dates you actually attended. If you include credits, use the number shown on your transcript; do not add an expected graduation date unless you have resumed study and have a realistic completion plan.
Example: Preparing for a Certification Exam
Preparing for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam
Exam preparation in progress; certification not yet earned
Put relevant exam preparation under Training or Professional Development. A preparation course is different from an awarded certification. Add an exam date only if it is scheduled, and do not describe yourself as certified before you earn the credential.
Truth-First Rules
- Keep your education status consistent with your institution's records. Employers may verify qualifications, attendance, or completion dates.
- Prioritize education relevant to the role and your career stage. Include high school details when they are useful or requested, rather than treating them as always required or always inappropriate.
Further Reading
Harvard's career guidance explains how an expected graduation date can help recruiters understand timing. AWS describes exam preparation separately from earning its certification.