How to List a Currently Pursuing Degree on a Resume (Complete Guide + Examples)

When you’re still studying, writing your resume can feel tricky. You may wonder: should you include your degree if it’s not finished yet? The answer is yes — and done correctly, it can significantly strengthen your candidacy.

Listing a currently pursuing degree on your resume shows employers that you are actively developing skills, committed to growth, and investing in your future. However, formatting it incorrectly can create confusion or even harm your chances.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to present your ongoing education in a professional way, with examples, expert tips, common mistakes, and actionable checklists. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or career changer, this article will help you create a resume that stands out in competitive job markets.

If you want personalized help, our specialists can assist you in crafting a winning resume — simply register on our website to get started.

Table of Contents

• Why You Should Include an Ongoing Degree
• How to Properly Format a Degree in Progress
• Examples for Different Situations
• Where to Place Education on Your Resume
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Expert Tips to Stand Out
• FAQ

Why You Should Include a Degree in Progress

Even if your degree isn’t completed yet, including it on your resume can give you a strong competitive advantage. Employers are not only interested in what you’ve already achieved but also in your current trajectory.

Key Benefits

• Shows commitment to professional development
• Demonstrates relevant knowledge in your field
• Signals ambition and long-term goals
• Helps pass applicant tracking systems (ATS)

For example, if you're applying for a finance internship and currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Finance, that information directly increases your relevance.

When It Matters Most

• Entry-level roles
• Internships
• Career transitions
• Academic or research positions

If you're applying for academic or research roles, pairing your resume with a strong cover letter is essential. Learn more in our guide to writing a cover letter for a lab research assistant position.

How to Properly Format a Degree in Progress

Formatting is critical. A poorly written education section can confuse recruiters or suggest you’re trying to mislead them.

Correct Structure

Element	Example
Degree	Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Institution	University of California
Status	Expected Graduation: May 2026

Example Formats

• Standard: Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, Expected June 2025
• Alternative: Bachelor of Arts in Marketing (In Progress)
• Detailed: Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, 2022–Present

For resumes written in Word, formatting consistency is essential. You can explore formatting tips in our guide on how to structure resume experience in Word.

Examples for Different Situations

Your situation matters. Whether you're a student, part-time learner, or career changer, your resume should reflect your journey clearly.

1. Current Student

Bachelor of Science in Biology
University of Texas
Expected Graduation: May 2025

2. Part-Time Student

Bachelor of Business Administration (Part-Time)
New York University
Expected Graduation: 2027

3. Career Changer

Master’s in Data Science (In Progress)
Stanford University
Expected Completion: 2026

4. No Graduation Date Yet

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
University of Chicago
Currently Enrolled

Scenario	Best Format
Full-time student	Expected Graduation Date
Part-time	Expected Completion + Part-time note
Online learning	Program + Institution + Status

If you also have work experience, make sure it complements your education. For example, if you worked as a cashier, learn how to describe it effectively in our guide on resume job responsibilities for cashier roles.

Where to Place Education on Your Resume

Placement depends on your experience level.

Top Placement (Students & Graduates)

• Place education before experience
• Highlight GPA, coursework, achievements

Lower Placement (Experienced Professionals)

• Place education after work experience
• Keep it concise

Experience Level	Placement
No experience	Top of resume
1–3 years	After skills section
5+ years	Bottom

For example, if you're applying for hospitality roles, combining education with relevant experience is key. See our guide on assistant bar manager resume examples.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even small errors can impact your credibility.

Top Mistakes

• Leaving out expected graduation date
• Using vague wording like “studying”
• Overloading with unnecessary details
• Misrepresenting your status

Your resume should also align with your cover letter. Learn how to structure it using our proven cover letter formula.

Practical Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out

• Include relevant coursework
• Add academic achievements
• Highlight projects
• Use action verbs
• Customize for each job

If you’re applying to academic programs, formatting matters even more. Check out our guide on cover letter format for university applications.

Remember, our specialists can help you optimize your resume for maximum impact. Just register on our website and get expert assistance.

FAQ

1. Should I include an unfinished degree on my resume?

Yes, as long as you clearly indicate that it’s 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 list completed coursework without misleading employers.

5. Should education come before experience?

Yes, if you’re a student or recent graduate.

6. Do employers verify education?

Many do, so always be honest.

7. Can I include online degrees?

Yes, as long as the institution is credible.

8. Where can I get help with my resume?

Our experts are ready to help — simply register on our website to get started.