* High-stakes jobs: Jobs in finance, government, healthcare, or other highly regulated industries may conduct more thorough background checks, potentially including verification of educational credentials.
* Background check services: Some employers use background check services that can verify education, though this is often only done for jobs requiring a specific level of education. These services generally obtain information from schools, but the depth of their verification varies. High schools might only confirm enrollment, not graduation status.
* Discrepancies: If information on your resume or application raises red flags or inconsistencies, an employer might investigate further.
What you should do:
* Be honest: The best approach is to be upfront about your educational background on your application. Don't claim to have graduated if you haven't. Focus on your skills and experience instead.
* Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize the skills you've acquired through work experience, volunteer work, or other life experiences that demonstrate your capabilities.
* Consider a GED: Earning a GED is a way to formally demonstrate the equivalency of a high school diploma. This can strengthen your job applications and alleviate potential concerns from employers.
* Focus on your strengths: Many employers prioritize experience and skills over formal education, especially for certain roles. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves.
In short, while it's *possible* for an employer to discover that you didn't graduate, it's not a common practice for most jobs. However, honesty and focusing on your skills are far more beneficial in the long run than trying to deceive an employer.