Currently Pursuing Degree on Resume Example: How to List Your Education the Right Way
When you're still in school or recently enrolled in a program, one of the most common resume questions is: how do you properly list a degree that you haven't completed yet? The answer can make a big difference in how employers perceive your qualifications, credibility, and readiness for a role.
Whether you're a college student, graduate student, or someone returning to education, knowing how to present a currently pursuing degree on your resume is essential. Done correctly, it highlights ambition, discipline, and future potential. Done incorrectly, it can create confusion or even raise red flags.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn exactly how to format your education section, see real resume examples, avoid common mistakes, and get expert-backed strategies to stand out. If you're unsure how to tailor your resume to your situation, remember that our specialists can help you craft a professional resume—just register here and get personalized support.
Let’s break everything down step by step.
Table of Contents
- Why Listing an Ongoing Degree Matters
- How to Format a Currently Pursuing Degree
- Resume Examples for Different Situations
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Expert Tips to Strengthen Your Resume
- Checklist: Perfecting Your Education Section
- FAQ
Why Listing an Ongoing Degree Matters
Including a degree you are currently pursuing shows employers that you are actively investing in your education and career growth. Even if you haven't completed the program, it still demonstrates relevant knowledge and commitment.
Key Benefits
- Shows continuous learning and motivation
- Highlights relevant coursework
- Bridges gaps in experience
- Improves ATS keyword matching
Employers understand that many candidates apply while still studying. What matters most is clarity and honesty in how you present your information.
When You Should Include It
| Situation | Include Degree? |
|---|---|
| Currently enrolled in university | Yes |
| Taking a break but planning to return | Yes (with explanation) |
| Dropped out with no plans to return | Optional |
Always include your expected graduation date. It helps employers understand your availability and long-term commitment.
If you’re also working on improving other sections of your resume, check out this targeted resume example guide to align your content with job descriptions.
How to Format a Currently Pursuing Degree
The format of your education section must be clean, consistent, and easy to scan. Recruiters typically spend only a few seconds reviewing each resume, so clarity is critical.
Basic Format
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Institution | University of California |
| Status | Currently Pursuing |
| Expected Graduation | Expected May 2027 |
Example
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
University of Texas
Currently Pursuing | Expected Graduation: May 2026
Alternative Formats
- “In Progress”
- “Expected Completion: 2026”
- “Anticipated Graduation”
Use “Expected” instead of “Planned” — it sounds more professional and confident.
Checklist: Formatting Your Education Section
- ✔ Include degree name clearly
- ✔ Add institution name
- ✔ Mention “Currently Pursuing” or equivalent
- ✔ Include expected graduation date
- ✔ Keep formatting consistent
If you also need help formatting references properly, this guide on how to cite a website with no author can be useful.
Resume Examples for Different Situations
Your resume should reflect your unique situation. Below are tailored examples depending on your status.
1. College Student
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
New York University
Currently Pursuing | Expected Graduation: 2025
2. Graduate Student
Master of Science in Data Analytics
University of Chicago
In Progress | Expected Completion: 2026
3. Career Switcher
Certificate in Digital Marketing
Coursera / Google
Currently Pursuing | Expected Completion: 2024
4. Part-Time Student
Bachelor of Engineering
Arizona State University
Part-Time Student | Expected Graduation: 2027
| Scenario | Best Phrase |
|---|---|
| Full-time student | Currently Pursuing |
| Online course | In Progress |
| Certification | Expected Completion |
Customize your education section based on the job you're applying for. Highlight relevant coursework when possible.
For example, if you're applying for a caregiving role, reviewing an animal caretaker resume example can help you align your skills effectively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even strong candidates make simple mistakes when listing ongoing education. Avoid these pitfalls to maintain professionalism.
❌ Mistake #1: Not Mentioning Status
Leaving out “currently pursuing” can mislead employers into thinking you've already graduated.
❌ Mistake #2: Incorrect Dates
Using vague timelines like “2023–Present” without an expected graduation date creates uncertainty.
❌ Mistake #3: Overloading with Irrelevant Details
Too many courses or unnecessary information can clutter your resume.
- ❌ Writing “Degree: Ongoing” without specifics
- ❌ Forgetting institution name
- ❌ Mixing formats across sections
- ❌ Listing incomplete degrees without explanation
- ❌ Using informal language
- ❌ Ignoring ATS formatting
- ❌ Not tailoring resume for the job
- ❌ Adding outdated coursework
- ❌ Poor alignment and structure
If you're unsure whether your resume avoids these mistakes, register on our website and let our specialists review it for you.
Expert Tips to Strengthen Your Resume
Beyond formatting, there are strategic ways to make your education section more impactful.
5 Practical Tips
- Focus on relevant coursework
- Add academic achievements
- Include GPA (if strong)
- Highlight projects
- Use keywords from job descriptions
Checklist: Make Your Resume Stand Out
- ✔ Tailored to job description
- ✔ Clear education status
- ✔ Relevant skills included
- ✔ No formatting errors
- ✔ ATS-friendly structure
For example, if you're applying for a service role, reviewing a domestic assistant cover letter example can help you align tone and structure.
Similarly, government job applicants can benefit from this census job cover letter guide.
Strong interpersonal skills also matter—learn how to present them effectively using this reference letter for interpersonal skills guide.
Combine your education with skills and experience sections to create a cohesive narrative about your career path.
If you want a professionally optimized resume that stands out in competitive markets, register now and let our specialists help you.
FAQ
1. Should I include an unfinished degree on my resume?
Yes, as long as you clearly indicate that it is currently in progress.
2. How do I write expected graduation date?
Use “Expected Graduation: Month Year” format.
3. Can I include coursework?
Yes, especially if it's relevant to the job.
4. What if I dropped out?
You can still include it, but be transparent about your status.
5. Should I include GPA?
Only if it is strong (usually 3.5+).
6. Can online courses be included?
Yes, especially if they are job-relevant.
7. Where should education go on a resume?
At the top if you're a student, otherwise after experience.
8. Can professionals help improve my resume?
Absolutely. Register on our website and our specialists will guide you step by step.
Final Thoughts
Listing a currently pursuing degree on your resume is not just acceptable—it’s an opportunity to showcase your growth, ambition, and future potential. With the right formatting, clear communication, and strategic positioning, you can turn your ongoing education into a major advantage.
Remember: clarity, honesty, and relevance are key. And if you want to maximize your chances of landing interviews, don’t hesitate to register and get expert help from our specialists.