When it comes to hiring new employees, employers often conduct background checks to ensure that the candidates are suitable for the position they are applying for. One of the most important aspects of a background check is an education background check as it allows employers to verify the educational qualifications of the candidates. With the abundance of fake degrees and diplomas in the market today, education background checks have become an essential tool in the hiring process. So, what information can employers obtain from an education background check?
Verification of Educational Qualifications
The most crucial bit of information that employers can obtain from an education background check is the verification of educational qualifications. Employers want to ensure that the candidate has the necessary academic credentials to perform the job duties. The background check will verify the candidate's educational degrees and diplomas, including the dates of attendance and any honors earned, such as graduation with honors, cum laude, or magna cum laude.
Verification of Transcripts
In addition to verifying the educational degrees and diplomas, employers can also obtain the candidate's transcripts from the education background check. Transcripts provide a more in-depth look into the candidate's academic performance, including grades on individual courses and overall GPA. Employers can use this information to gauge the candidate's academic ability and diligence.
Confirmation of Attendance
In some cases, employers may require confirmation that the candidate indeed attended and graduated from the educational institution listed on their resume. An education background check will verify attendance by cross-referencing the candidate's name to the school's database and checking for any inconsistencies in their educational record.
Verification of Specializations
Certain job positions require candidates with specific educational specializations. Through an education background check, employers can verify that the candidate has specialized in the necessary subject or field of study. For example, if a candidate is applying for a position as an engineer, the education background check will verify if the candidate has studied engineering and determine their level of expertise in the subject.
Professional Accreditation Checks
While educational qualifications are crucial, some roles require professional licensing or certification from a governing body. For these positions, employers may perform professional accreditation checks as part of the background check, to ensure that the candidate meets the professional and legal requirements of the position.
Criminal History Checks
Employers may choose to perform criminal history checks as part of the education background check. While not directly related to the candidate’s educational qualifications, a criminal history check can provide insight into the candidate's lifestyle and behavioral patterns. Employers may be hesitant to hire someone with a history of criminal offenses, particularly if the job puts them in a position of trust or authority.
Conclusion
In summary, education background checks are a critical step in the hiring process that helps employers verify a candidate's academic credentials. The information obtained from these checks provides insight into the candidate’s academic performance, including GPA, specializations, and any professional licensing or certification required for the position. Employers use this information to guide their hiring decisions and ensure that they are hiring candidates who are qualified and trustworthy. While background checks may seem intrusive to some candidates, they are a necessary part of the hiring process to ensure the safety and integrity of the workplace.
