How do employers verify if I have a high school diploma?

I'm in the process of applying for jobs after graduating, and I was wondering how companies typically check whether you've completed high school. Do they contact your school directly, or is there another process involved?

The process of verifying a job applicant's education can vary. Often, employers can ask you to provide a copy of your high school diploma, transcripts, or a degree from a university. However, if further verification is required, some employers might carry out background checks. These checks could be performed either by the company's HR department or by third-party verification professionals.

In these cases, the employer might reach out to your high school to confirm your attendance and graduation. They would typically contact the school's administrative office or your school's registrar. Keep in mind, however, that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also plays a part. This U.S. federal law protects the privacy of student education records. Usually, schools can't disclose these records without the consent of the student, so you might need to provide written consent to allow your school to share this information with prospective employers.

In any case, honesty during the application process is essential. Misrepresenting your education can lead to negative consequences if discovered, including job termination.