Navigating High School Diploma Degree Fields: What Should You Put?

Often, high school applications and forms require candidates to specify the degree they have earned. However, the question of what to fill in the 'degree' field on a high school diploma can be perplexing. In this article, we will explore the common practices and the rationale behind leaving the degree field empty. We will also discuss the potential implications and how to approach this situation in a clear and professional manner.

The Common Question

Many prospective students and professionals encounter the issue of specifying their degree on their high school diploma. A frequent question arises, particularly when dealing with standardized applications and forms:

What do you put for a diploma degree for high school?

Understanding the Degree Field

In the context of a high school diploma, the 'degree' field typically refers to the academic degree or qualification that one has earned. This might include diploma programs, certificates, or any other form of formal education completed. However, for most high school graduates, the term 'degree' is usually associated with a college or university-level qualification, which is not relevant to the high school context.

The Option of Leaving It Blank

A common, and perhaps the most straightforward, solution is to leave the degree field blank. This is supported by a quote from someone who has been in this situation for decades:

“Nothing. I realized decades ago that it is only there to make the form symmetrical. Completing that box makes you look like an idiot.”

Sourced from personal experience

Leaving the degree field blank can be a practical and effective approach, especially when you are unsure about what to put or when the information is not particularly relevant.

Pros and Cons of Leaving It Blank

Pros

Simplicity: It is the most straightforward option, requiring no additional thought or effort. Avoiding Misinterpretation: Filling in an incorrect or irrelevant degree can lead to confusion or potential issues down the line. Professionalism: Leaving it blank shows a level of professionalism and clarity, avoiding any unnecessary clutter or misinformation.

Cons

Uniformity: Some application processes may require a standardized response, and leaving it blank might be seen as unusual or incomplete. Clarification Questions: Failing to provide information might prompt additional questions or requests for clarification from the application team.

Alternative Approaches

While leaving the degree field blank is a valid approach, there are alternative methods that can be considered:

Specify 'High School Diploma'

For those who wish to provide more information, some forms might allow you to specify that it is a 'High School Diploma.' This method provides clarity while avoiding the need to fill in a field with irrelevant information:

E.g., High School Diploma (no college/university degree earned)

Use of a Blank, but Ensure Readability

If you decide to leave the field blank, consider ensuring that it remains readable and clear. This can be achieved by filling the field with a single blank space, which is easier for machines to process and avoids any ambiguity:

“_____”

When to Fill in the Degree Field

In certain circumstances, it might be necessary to fill in the degree field. For example, if you are applying for positions that require a high school diploma as a minimum requirement, or if the form specifically requests additional information:

Job Applications: Some job applications might explicitly require information about educational background. In such cases, entering 'High School Diploma' can help prevent any red flags or misunderstandings. Educational Records: If you are providing information for educational records, specifying the relevant information can be beneficial for consistency and accuracy. Government Documents: Certain government forms and documentation might require more detailed information to ensure proper processing and identification.

Conclusion

The decision to leave the degree field empty or provide information should be based on the specific requirements and context of the application or form in question. While leaving it blank is often the simplest and most professional approach, there are scenarios where providing information, such as 'High School Diploma,' can be beneficial. Always consider the context and the purpose of the information required and proceed accordingly.

Additional Tips

1. Read the Guidelines: Always read the instructions and guidelines provided by the form or application to ensure you are meeting their requirements.

2. Seek Clarification: If you are unsure about what to fill in, it is better to seek clarification from the provider or the form's guidelines.

3. Maintain Professionalism: Whatever you choose to do, ensure that your response is clear, professional, and consistent with best practices.