How to List GED on a Resume: Examples & Where to Put It
Learn how to list GED on a resume with examples, proper placement, and formatting tips. Find out where to put GED in your education section.
Introduction
When applying for jobs with a GED, knowing how to list it on your resume is essential. A General Educational Development (GED) diploma is widely accepted as equivalent to a high school diploma by most employers. The key is to present it clearly and professionally to make the best first impression.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to list a GED on a resume, including where to place it, how to format it, and what details to include. You'll also find real examples and answers to common questions about GEDs on resumes.
What is a GED and Why Does It Matter on a Resume?
A GED (General Educational Development) diploma is a certification that demonstrates you have high school-level academic skills. It is recognized by 97% of U.S. employers and accepted by most colleges and universities.
When applying for jobs, your GED shows employers that you have the basic skills and determination to complete a challenging program. Listing it correctly on your resume can open doors to entry-level positions and career advancement opportunities.
How to List a GED on Your Resume: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Use the Right Title
There are several ways to list your GED on a resume. Choose the phrasing that feels most comfortable and matches the job application requirements:
- General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
- GED Diploma
- General Educational Development (GED)
- GED Certification
**Example:** General Educational Development Diploma (GED), 2024
Step 2: Place It in the Education Section
Your GED belongs in the Education section of your resume. If you have no college degree or limited work experience, place this section near the top. If you have significant experience, place it below your work history.
**Example Education Section:**
Education
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
ABC Community College | 2024
Step 3: Include Relevant Details
Add any additional information that strengthens your application:
- **Graduation year:** Include the year you completed your GED
- **Institution name:** Where you took the GED test
- **Honors or awards:** If you scored in the top percentiles
- **Relevant coursework:** If applicable to the job
- **GPA:** Only if it's above 3.0
**Example:**
Education
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
ABC Community College | 2024
- Scored in the 95th percentile
- Completed with honors
Where to Put GED on a Resume: 3 Key Placement Options
Option 1: Education Section (Standard)
This is the most common and recommended placement. List your GED just like you would a high school diploma.
**Example:**
Education
General Educational Development Diploma (GED), 2024
Option 2: Professional Summary (For Career Changers)
If you're changing careers or have minimal experience, you might mention your GED in your professional summary.
**Example:**
Professional Summary
Dedicated and motivated individual with a GED diploma and 3+ years of customer service experience. Eager to apply strong communication and problem-solving skills in a retail environment.
Option 3: Certifications Section (If Applicable)
If you have other certifications, you can list your GED as a qualification.
**Example:**
Certifications
- General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
- CPR and First Aid Certified
GED Resume Examples
Example 1: Entry-Level Applicant
“**JOHN DOE**
(555) 123-4567 | john.doe@email.com | Chicago, IL
**Professional Summary**
Motivated individual with a GED diploma and 2 years of retail experience. Strong customer service, communication, and organizational skills. Seeking an entry-level position to apply my abilities and grow within a dynamic team.
**Education**
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
Chicago Community College | 2024
**Work Experience**
Sales Associate | ABC Retail | 2022-2024
- Assisted 50+ customers daily, maintaining a 95% satisfaction rating
- Managed cash register and processed transactions accurately
- Organized merchandise and maintained store appearance
**Skills**
- Customer Service
- Cash Handling
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-Solving”
Example 2: Experienced Applicant
“**JANE SMITH**
(555) 987-6543 | jane.smith@email.com | Houston, TX
**Professional Summary**
Experienced warehouse professional with a GED diploma and 5+ years of logistics experience. Proven track record of improving efficiency and leading teams. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
**Work Experience**
Warehouse Supervisor | XYZ Logistics | 2020-Present
- Led a team of 15 warehouse associates
- Reduced order processing time by 20%
- Maintained inventory accuracy of 99%
**Education**
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
Houston Community College | 2019
**Skills**
- Leadership
- Inventory Management
- Logistics
- Warehouse Operations
- Forklift Certified”
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Listing a GED on a Resume
- **Hiding Your GED:** Some people try to list their GED as a "High School Diploma" or leave it off entirely. This can appear dishonest and may be discovered during background checks.
- **Using Incorrect Wording:** Avoid informal phrasing like "got my GED." Use professional titles like "General Educational Development Diploma (GED)."
- **Forgetting the Year:** Always include the year you earned your GED to provide a complete timeline.
- **Listing Just "GED" Without Context:** Give your GED the same treatment you would a traditional diploma by including the institution name.
- **Using Unprofessional Abbreviations:** Write out "General Educational Development Diploma" on first mention, then abbreviate.
How to Format a GED on a Resume (Proper Layout)
Here are the most common formatting options for listing a GED on your resume:
Option 1: Simple
General Educational Development Diploma (GED), 2024
Option 2: With Institution Name
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
ABC Community College | 2024
Option 3: With Honors or Details
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
ABC Community College | 2024
- Scored in the 90th percentile
- Received academic honors
Option 4: In Progress
General Educational Development Diploma (GED) – In Progress
Expected Completion: June 2025
GED vs. High School Diploma on a Resume
Should You List GED or High School Diploma?
Always list your actual credential. Do not pretend you have a high school diploma if you have a GED. Most employers consider them equal for job applications. Honesty is always the best policy.
**Comparison:**
| Credential | How to List | Recommended? |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| High School Diploma | High School Diploma, ABC High School, 2024 | ✅ Yes |
| GED | General Educational Development Diploma (GED), ABC Community College, 2024 | ✅ Yes |
| Some College | 30 Credits Completed, ABC Community College | ✅ Yes |
| No Credential | Focus on skills and experience | 🟡 Consider omitting education or listing "Currently studying for GED" |
GED Resume Template
“[YOUR FULL NAME]
[Your Phone Number] | [Your Email Address] | [Your City, State]
**Professional Summary**
[2-3 sentences about your experience, skills, and what you're looking for]
**Education**
General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
[Institution Name] | [Year Completed]
[Optional: Honors, GPA, relevant coursework]
**Work Experience**
[Job Title] | [Company Name] | [Dates]
- [Key achievement or responsibility]
- [Key achievement or responsibility]
- [Key achievement or responsibility]
**Skills**
- [Skill 1]
- [Skill 2]
- [Skill 3]
- [Skill 4]
- [Skill 5]”
Key Takeaways
“How to List GED on Resume: Quick Summary
- Place your GED in the Education section
- Use the full title: General Educational Development Diploma (GED)
- Include the year you completed it
- Add the institution name if possible
- Be honest and transparent
- Treat it with the same respect as a high school diploma
- Only include scores if they are exceptional”
Conclusion
Knowing how to list a GED on your resume is essential for job seekers. Whether you're applying for your first job or looking to advance your career, your GED is a valuable credential that demonstrates your dedication and skills. Place it professionally in your education section, include the correct details, and present it with confidence.
**For more guidance on GED resumes, check out our companion article:** How to Write GED on a Resume: Examples and Best Practices
How do I list a GED on my resume?
List your GED in the education section of your resume. Include 'General Educational Development Diploma' or 'GED' followed by the year you earned it, the institution name, and any relevant honors or scores. Example: General Educational Development Diploma (GED), ABC Community College, 2024.
Where do I put my GED on my resume?
Place your GED in the Education section. If you have no college degree or limited work experience, position the Education section above your work experience. If you have significant work experience, place it below your experience section.
Should I put GED or high school diploma on my resume?
Always list your GED. Trying to hide it or present it as a traditional diploma can backfire if discovered. Most employers view a GED as equivalent to a high school diploma for entry-level positions. Be honest and list it as 'GED' or 'General Educational Development Diploma.'
How do you put GED on a resume if you're still in school?
If you have completed most of your GED requirements but haven't finished yet, you can list it as 'GED (In Progress)' with an expected completion date. Example: 'General Educational Development Diploma (GED) – Expected Completion: June 2025.'
Should I include my GED test scores on my resume?
Only include your GED scores if they are exceptionally high (e.g., in the top 10th percentile) or if the job specifically requires minimum test scores. Generally, employers are more interested in your diploma than your specific scores.
What if my GED is from a different country?
List your GED with the country of origin and mention if it has been evaluated by a credential evaluation service. Example: 'GED, International Education, 2024 (Evaluated as U.S. equivalent by WES).'
Can I get a job with just a GED?
Yes, absolutely! Many employers accept a GED as equivalent to a high school diploma. Your employability depends more on your skills, experience, and how well you present yourself in your resume and interview.
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