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16 High School Student Resume Examples Created for 2024

High School Student Resume

• High School Student Resumes by Experience
• High School Student Resumes by Role

High school is one of the best times of your life, but it can also be one of the most difficult when looking for your first or second job. You’ve got to fill out applications, prep for interviews, and write your resume.

Using ChatGPT for resumes  is a cool idea, but can still feel daunting and overwhelming. We’ve all been there, and up until now, there hasn’t been a good resource for high schoolers to help  craft compelling resumes or student cover letters .

We’ve analyzed countless high school resumes to discover  what would get students job interviews in 2024 . While you may want to start with a simple  resume outline , keep reading to find 16 high school resume samples (plus writing tips) that are jam-packed with essential techniques and tricks.

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Why this resume works

• If you choose to use a template, make sure you adjust the  resume’s formatting  so that your text is big enough to read with one-inch margins on the side.
• However, you should write your bullet points like you would for a job. Highlight any responsibilities and accomplishments relevant to the job you’re applying for now.
• For example, if you’re looking for a job in sales, emphasize your ability to work in groups and create a good customer experience.

High School Student No Experience Resume

• If you don’t have work history, include projects and volunteer work instead. Treat them like a job and write bullet points according to your responsibilities.
• Make sure you start every bullet point with active verbs, and always double-check for typos. You’ve got this!
• Include your unique skills, your desired position, and the company you hope to work for to make your objective stand out from the rest!

First Job High School Student Resume

• To remedy that problem, add a  skills section on your resume  to give hiring managers an important overview of your strengths.
• To really highlight your abilities, incorporate the same skills in your work experience, too. Demonstrate how you used your skills to better your workplace, and you can’t go wrong!
• Adding stylistic elements like color and different fonts can help you show a bit of your personality (and make your resume more fun to read). 

Experienced High School Student Resume

• Remember, your resume is a highlight reel, so you need to include what’s most important (like your achievements and relevant metrics). 
• You can adjust your layout, font sizes, and margins, but keep it easy to read. 
• Use a bit of color and some fun fonts, provided it still looks professional. You’ve got this!

High School Senior Resume

• This statement must align with the potential employer’s needs, proving you understand the job requirements and have gone the extra mile to address doubts about your capabilities. As for experiences that might have prepared you for the job, workshops and volunteering programs you’ve participated in are prominent candidates.

Out of High School Resume

• Leisure activities range from soccer, hiking, drawing and sketching, robotics, and photography to journalism. But how do they fit in the picture? Well, a penchant for drawing and sketching could reflect creativity and an eye for detail, while journalism stints could hint at strong communication and critical thinking.

High School Graduate Resume

• Right from the first line of the career objective, you can see the candidate’s passion and willingness to work in this field. Notice how Serai’s love for photography is clearly backed by a previous project for a school newspaper.
• These details will be perfect when Serai’s ready for the AI cover letter generator to bring her application to perfection.

High School Student Scholarship Resume

• Your high school student scholarship resume should vividly show your positive contributions to noble causes, such as offering ADLs to seniors, and emphasize your impact on society.

High School Student College Application Resume

• Ensure your high school student college application resume shows your practical and classwork achievements that emphasize your grand vision to make a positive contribution to society.

High School Student for College Resume

• Before hitting “submit,” always  check your resume  for typos and other minor errors. It’s amazing what you can miss during your first few reviews.
• A good GPA can demonstrate, at least in part, your willingness to work hard. We’d recommend including your GPA only if it’s above 3.5, but anything above a 3 is a good average.

High School Student for Customer Service Resume

• Including projects, volunteer work, or club memberships is a great way to add value to your resume.
• Your resume should focus on your abilities and other activities you’ve engaged in that will show your value.
• Read the responsibilities and qualifications to look for key skills and tasks. Then, incorporate some of those skills and responsibilities into your high school student customer service resume.

High School Student Internship Resume

• For example, if the job description lists responsibilities like writing and analyzing data, include “written communication” and “data analysis” in your skills section.
• One easy way to customize your resume is by focusing your  resume skills  on things that apply to the internship. 
• Make sure you keep your resume professional and to the point. You don’t want to include anything too personal about your beliefs, religion, politics, or personal information.
• For example, you can list “volunteering at local church,” but avoid saying “fasting every weekend.” It doesn’t show off relevant skills and is a bit too forward for a resume.

High School Student Office Worker Resume

• Good projects include anything that demonstrates your leadership abilities or desire for knowledge. Senior projects, personal blogs, or even being on a sports team are all good examples to include!
• Add work experience directly under your contact information and name, then add any relevant projects if you’re low on space. 
• While there are plenty of  resume writing tips , your resume should be as unique as you. Don’t get so caught up in what you think you “should” do that your resume is bland and cookie-cutter. 

High School Student Sales Resume

• Numbers demonstrate your value, and they’re useful tools for the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) software that hiring managers use to sort through job applicants.
• Trust us, and incorporate metrics into at least 80% of your bullet points!
• For example, you know that different  resume templates  can change your resume’s appearance, but different templates can also stretch or streamline your content. 
• Mess with multiple templates to see what your content will look like—you may find a template that allows for more room, or one that allows you to highlight your skills better.

High School Student Athlete  Resume

• Think of a time you proved you were the MVP on your team—Did you lead your team to a championship? Perhaps you made the game-winning shot in a crucial, nail-biting game?

High School Student Music Resume

• When you include hobbies like songwriting or your interest in classical music in your high school student music resume , it conveys to your recruiter that you’re super dedicated and passionate about your craft.
• You can also include hobbies that are different, too. For example, if you enjoy experimenting with new recipes from around the world, that can show you’re ready to give new genres a whirl or that you understand that music—while art—is still supposed to be fun and adventuresome.

Related resume guides

• Entry Level

5 High School Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

High school is a time of exploration and defining your path—much like crafting your first resume. As a high school student, your resume is your personal brand, a snapshot that showcases your achievements, interests, and aspirations. Dive into our guide for standout high school resume examples that will help you make your mark and impress potential employers or admissions officers in 2024.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on High School Resumes:

• Develop and implement lesson plans that meet state and school curriculum standards
• Teach subjects according to the educational needs, abilities, and achievement levels of students
• Grade student assignments and exams, providing feedback to promote learning and improvement
• Maintain accurate and complete records of students' progress and development
• Prepare students for standardized tests and college entrance exams
• Manage classroom behavior and discipline to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment
• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests
• Communicate with parents or guardians about students' progress and potential issues
• Participate in faculty meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops
• Supervise students outside of the classroom—for example, during lunchtime or detention
• Collaborate with other teachers, staff, and administrators to develop and coordinate educational programs
• Guide and mentor students with their academic and personal development

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

High School Resume Example:

• Revamped the science curriculum to incorporate STEM-focused projects, resulting in a 40% increase in students' standardized test scores and a 25% rise in college STEM program enrollments.
• Integrated smart classroom technologies which enhanced interactive learning, leading to a 30% improvement in student engagement as measured by class participation and feedback surveys.
• Developed and led a teacher mentorship program that improved novice teacher retention by 50% and increased the overall teaching quality as evidenced by student academic performance metrics.
• Orchestrated the launch of a school-wide digital literacy initiative, increasing students' proficiency with technology by 45% and enabling the successful adoption of a 1:1 device-to-student ratio.
• Collaborated with local businesses to create a career exploration program that provided internships for 60% of the senior class, enhancing college and career readiness.
• Implemented a comprehensive assessment strategy that reduced grading time by 20% while providing more detailed feedback, contributing to a 15% improvement in student revision and resubmission rates.
• Curriculum Development
• STEM Education Integration
• Classroom Technology Implementation
• Teacher Mentorship and Training
• Student Engagement Strategies
• Digital Literacy Advocacy
• Partnership Development with Local Businesses
• Career and College Readiness Programs
• Assessment and Feedback Optimization
• Project-Based Learning Facilitation
• Behavior Management System Design
• Culturally Responsive Teaching
• Professional Development Leadership
• Data Analysis and Academic Performance Evaluation
• Strategic Planning and Initiative Management

High School Graduate Resume Example:

• Streamlined data entry processes for a local non-profit, enhancing data accuracy by 15% and reducing time spent on data input by 20% through the creation of a custom spreadsheet template.
• Coordinated a community event that attracted over 300 attendees, managing logistics and volunteers, which resulted in a 50% increase in funds raised compared to the previous year.
• Developed and delivered a presentation on community engagement strategies that was adopted by the school's leadership team, leading to a 25% increase in student participation in extracurricular activities.
• Revamped the filing system at a small business office, increasing document retrieval efficiency by 30% and reducing misfiled documents by 90% within the first three months.
• Handled customer service inquiries with a 95% satisfaction rate, resolving issues promptly and improving the company's reputation for excellent customer support.
• Assisted in managing the company's social media accounts, growing the follower count by 40% and enhancing online engagement by creating content that resonated with the target audience.
• Data Entry and Spreadsheet Management
• Event Planning and Coordination
• Community Outreach and Engagement
• Presentation Development and Delivery
• Organizational Systems Improvement
• Customer Service Excellence
• Social Media Management and Content Creation
• Bookkeeping and Financial Processing
• Volunteer Management and Retention
• Digital Tools Proficiency for Team Collaboration
• Time Management and Efficiency Optimization
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
• Leadership and Team Building
• Effective Communication
• Project Management

High School Senior Resume Example:

• Orchestrated a community service project that engaged over 50 student volunteers, resulting in 200+ hours of service and a 15% increase in local park revitalization efforts.
• Secured a competitive internship with a local law firm, contributing to case research that aided in a 10% increase in successful case resolutions over a 3-month period.
• Developed and led a student-run tutoring program that improved participating students' average test scores by 20% across core subjects within one semester.
• Initiated and managed a fundraising campaign for the school's athletic department, raising over $5,000, which funded new equipment and uniforms, increasing team morale and performance by 25%.
• Successfully balanced a part-time job at a retail store with academic responsibilities, achieving a promotion to shift supervisor within 6 months due to exemplary leadership and customer service skills.
• Implemented a peer-mentoring initiative within the National Honor Society, increasing membership retention by 30% and fostering an environment of academic excellence and collaboration.
• Community Engagement
• Research and Analysis
• Program Development
• Fundraising
• Time Management
• Customer Service
• Peer Mentoring
• Academic Tutoring
• Problem-Solving
• Artistic Curation
• Event Planning
• Workshop Facilitation
• Team Building
• Public Speaking
• Collaboration
• Strategic Planning
• Data Interpretation
• Adaptability

High School Student First Job Resume Example:

• Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently greeting and assisting an average of 50 customers per day, leading to a 10% increase in positive customer feedback within three months.
• Streamlined the checkout process by efficiently operating cash registers and handling financial transactions, contributing to a 15% reduction in average customer wait time.
• Maintained a 98% accuracy rate in financial transactions over a six-month period, demonstrating strong attention to detail and reliability in handling cash and card payments.
• Proactively restocked shelves and managed inventory, resulting in a 5% decrease in out-of-stock incidents and contributing to a smoother shopping experience for customers.
• Implemented a new organization system for the work area, which improved overall store cleanliness and efficiency, leading to a 20% increase in store audit scores.
• Assisted with the launch of a promotional sales campaign that boosted store traffic by 30% and increased sales by 25% during the event period.
• Cash Handling
• Transaction Accuracy
• Inventory Management
• Organizational Skills
• Sales Promotion
• Communication Skills
• Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Professionalism
• Product Knowledge

High School Student with No Experience Resume Example:

• Streamlined the administrative process by organizing over 1,000 student records and documents, resulting in a 30% improvement in retrieval time for the school staff.
• Coordinated and executed setup for 15+ school events, contributing to a 20% increase in student participation and community engagement.
• Implemented a peer tutoring schedule that matched 40 students with tutors, enhancing academic support and contributing to a 10% rise in average test scores.
• Assisted in the school library by cataloging over 500 books and resources, improving the book retrieval system efficiency by 25%.
• Supported the IT team in resolving 100+ student and staff computer issues, increasing the overall technology uptime by 15%.
• Contributed to the school's newsletter with 10+ articles and photographs, leading to a 35% increase in readership among the student body.
• Peer Tutoring and Academic Support
• Library Cataloging and Resource Management
• Technical Support and IT Troubleshooting
• Written Communication and Journalism
• Photography
• Volunteerism and Community Service
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Data Entry and Record Keeping

High Level Resume Tips for High Schools:

Must-have information for a high school resume:.

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies
• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for High Schools:

High school resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• These headlines are compelling because they immediately convey the candidates' specialized roles within a high school setting and highlight measurable achievements. They reflect a blend of experience, dedication, and innovation that directly aligns with the core objectives of high school education—academic excellence, student guidance, and inspirational teaching. Such headlines are likely to resonate with hiring managers who are looking for professionals with a proven track record of contributing positively to the educational environment.

Weak Headlines

• The provided headlines are generic and lack the distinct details that make a resume stand out. They do not quantify experience or achievements, nor do they specify any unique skills or programs the candidates have implemented or contributed to. Additionally, they fail to mention any accolades or recognitions that could differentiate the candidates from others in the field.

Writing an Exceptional High School Resume Summary:

High school resume summary examples:, strong summaries.

• These summaries are strong because they concisely articulate the professionals' specialized experience, their achievements, and the positive outcomes they have driven in their roles. They provide quantifiable results such as improved test scores, increased college acceptance rates, and scholarship awards, which are key metrics of success in high school education. Additionally, they reflect the candidates' commitment to student development and educational excellence, qualities that are highly valued by employers in the education sector.

Weak Summaries

1. High School educator with years of experience in teaching various subjects, looking to continue fostering a positive learning environment and contributing to student success at a new school. 2. High School professional skilled in classroom management and curriculum development, seeking to utilize my teaching abilities and knowledge to impact students' academic growth. 3. Dedicated High School teacher with a passion for student engagement and educational technology, aiming to bring my expertise to a school that values innovation in teaching methods.

• The provided resume summaries are weak because they are generic and lack specificity. They do not mention any measurable achievements, such as improvements in student test scores or successful program implementations. Additionally, they fail to highlight any unique skills or experiences that set the candidate apart from others in the field, which is crucial for making a strong impression on hiring managers.

Resume Objective Examples for High Schools:

Strong objectives.

• These resume objectives are strong for high school students because they highlight the candidates' academic achievements, leadership qualities, and eagerness to apply their skills in a real-world setting. They also demonstrate a balance between personal development and a desire to contribute to the success of a potential employer, which are key traits hiring managers look for in less-experienced candidates.

Weak Objectives

• These objectives lack specificity and fail to highlight the candidate's unique strengths or interests. They are too broad and do not target any particular industry or job type, which makes it difficult for employers to see the value the student can bring to their organization. Additionally, they do not mention any skills, achievements, or extracurricular activities that might make the candidate stand out from other applicants.

Generate Your Resume Summary with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the ai resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your high school work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Highlight any part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work: Even if the experience isn't in a professional setting, emphasize responsibilities and skills learned that are transferable to the workplace, such as customer service, time management, and teamwork.
• Focus on leadership roles and responsibilities: Whether in sports teams, school clubs, or group projects, describe any leadership experience, what you learned, and how you contributed to the group's success.
• Include achievements in academic projects or extracurricular activities: Detail any significant projects or activities where you demonstrated skills relevant to the job you're applying for, such as problem-solving, creativity, or initiative.
• Emphasize soft skills developed: Communication, adaptability, and problem-solving are highly valued by employers. Provide examples of how you've developed and used these skills in various settings.
• Describe any entrepreneurial endeavors: If you've started a small business, a blog, or an online store, discuss what you did, how you managed it, and any successes you had.
• Include certifications or additional training: Mention any relevant courses, workshops, or certifications you've completed that demonstrate your commitment to learning and growth.
• Quantify your impact when possible: Use numbers to illustrate your impact, such as funds raised during a charity event, the number of participants in a club you led, or the growth of a social media page you managed.
• Use action verbs to start bullet points: Words like "organized," "led," "developed," "coordinated," and "managed" can make your experiences sound more dynamic and impactful.
• Proofread for clarity and accuracy: Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that all information is accurate and up-to-date.

Example Work Experiences for High Schools:

Strong experiences.

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive student success program that increased graduation rates by 15% over three years by providing targeted academic support, career counseling, and mentorship opportunities.
• Orchestrated a school-wide initiative to integrate technology in the classroom, resulting in a 40% increase in student engagement and a 25% improvement in standardized test scores within two academic years.
• Managed the school's annual budget of $5 million, achieving a 10% cost reduction through strategic negotiations with vendors and the optimization of resource allocation, while maintaining high educational standards.
• Revitalized the school's extracurricular program, leading to a 60% increase in student participation and the establishment of 5 new student-led organizations that fostered leadership and community service.
• Collaborated with local businesses and educational partners to secure $500,000 in grants and donations for STEM programs, enhancing the school's curriculum and providing students with hands-on learning experiences.
• Championed a teacher professional development plan that improved instructional practices, evidenced by a 20% increase in teacher retention and a notable rise in student satisfaction and performance.
• Launched a district-wide anti-bullying campaign, reducing reported incidents by 30% and creating a safer, more inclusive school environment as measured by annual student and parent surveys.
• Directed the successful accreditation process for the high school, ensuring compliance with all regional and national standards and securing the institution's academic reputation for the next 10 years.
• Forged partnerships with cultural and academic institutions, enriching the curriculum with diverse programs that led to a 35% increase in student cultural awareness and global perspective.
• These work experiences are impactful because they demonstrate the ability to create positive change within the educational environment, showcase the successful management of resources, and highlight the development of programs that directly benefit student growth. Each example includes quantifiable results, reflecting the professional's effectiveness in addressing key areas such as student engagement, academic performance, and operational efficiency.

Weak Experiences

• Assisted in developing and implementing lesson plans for a variety of subjects, ensuring they align with educational standards.
• Managed classroom behavior by applying standard disciplinary measures, maintaining a controlled and focused learning environment.
• Participated in faculty meetings and contributed to discussions about school policies and student engagement strategies.
• Coordinated with other teachers to organize school events such as science fairs and art exhibitions, overseeing logistics and student participation.
• Monitored student progress through regular assessments and provided feedback to help them improve academically.
• Engaged with parents during parent-teacher conferences to discuss student performance and address any concerns.
• Implemented technology in the classroom by using educational software to enhance student learning experiences.
• Contributed to the school's extracurricular programs by supervising a student club and organizing activities.
• Attended professional development workshops to stay updated on teaching methods and curriculum changes.
• The examples provided are weak because they are vague and do not convey the full scope or impact of the high school professional's responsibilities. They lack measurable achievements, detailed contributions to student success, or the educational environment, and do not highlight the individual's initiative or innovation in their role. To strengthen these bullet points, the high school professional should include specific examples of how they enhanced student learning, improved school programs, or contributed to the school's overall performance, using precise metrics and action verbs to demonstrate their effectiveness and value to the institution.

Top Skills & Keywords for High School Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for high schools, hard skills.

• Classroom Management
• Lesson Planning
• Educational Technology Integration
• Student Assessment and Evaluation
• Special Education
• Subject Matter Expertise (e.g., Mathematics, Science, English)
• Behavioral Management Techniques
• Instructional Design
• Fluency in Multiple Languages (for language teachers)
• Standardized Test Preparation
• Data-Driven Instruction

Soft Skills

• Classroom Management and Student Engagement
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Patience and Empathy
• Adaptability and Flexibility in Teaching Methods
• Conflict Resolution and Mediation
• Organization and Time Management
• Cultural Competency and Inclusivity
• Mentoring and Coaching
• Teamwork and Collaboration with Faculty
• Creative Problem-Solving
• Active Listening and Responsiveness to Student Needs
• Leadership and Role Modeling

Go Above & Beyond with a High School Cover Letter

High school cover letter example: (based on resume), resume faqs for high schools:, how long should i make my high school resume.

An ideal high school resume should typically be one page in length. This is because high school students generally have less professional experience compared to adults who have been in the workforce for years. A one-page resume encourages students to focus on their most relevant experiences and accomplishments without overwhelming the reader with too much information. Here are a few reasons why a one-page resume is suitable for high school students: 1. Conciseness: High school students are at an early stage in their careers, so they usually have fewer experiences and achievements to list compared to more seasoned professionals. A one-page resume helps them to be concise and to the point. 2. Relevance: It encourages students to only include experiences and skills that are relevant to the position or opportunity they are applying for, such as part-time jobs, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and academic achievements.

What is the best way to format a High School resume?

The best way to format a high school resume is to keep it clear, concise, and organized, with a focus on showcasing the student's achievements, skills, and potential. Here's a breakdown of an ideal high school resume format: 1. Header: At the top, include the student's name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure the email address is professional. 2. Objective or Summary (optional): A brief statement that outlines the student's goals and interests. This can be helpful for students with specific objectives, but it's not mandatory. 3. Education: Since the student is still in high school, this section should come first. Include the name of the high school, expected graduation date, and GPA (if it's strong). Mention any honors or AP courses if applicable. 4. Experience: This section can include part-time jobs, internships,or any other volunteer work you've done up to this point.

Which High School skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

When high school students are preparing their resumes, it's important to highlight skills that demonstrate their readiness for the workforce or further education. Here are some key skills that high school students should consider featuring on their resumes, along with explanations for each: 1. Academic Competence: Highlighting strong performance in relevant subjects can show potential employers or colleges that a student is prepared for the intellectual demands of a job or higher education. 2. Communication Skills: Both written and verbal communication skills are critical in almost every field. High school students should showcase experiences that demonstrate their ability to express ideas clearly and effectively, such as participation in debate clubs or writing for the school newspaper. 3. Teamwork and Collaboration: Employers and colleges look for individuals who can work well with others. Participation in team sports, group projects, or clubs can illustrate a student's ability to collaborate. 4. Leadership: Experience in leadership roles, such as being a team captain, student council member, or club president, can be very appealing to those reviewing the resume. It shows initiative and the ability to manage and inspire others.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a High School?

When high school students are writing a resume and they have no formal work experience, they can focus on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any skills they have developed that are relevant to the job or opportunity they are seeking. Here's a guide on how to write a resume under these circumstances: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the resume, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure your email address is professional. 2. Objective or Summary Statement: Write a brief statement that outlines your career goals and what you aim to achieve with the resume. This should be tailored to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for. 3. Education: Since you're still in high school, your education is one of your main assets. List your high school name, expected graduation date, and GPA if it's strong. You can also include relevant coursework, honors, or awards.

Compare Your High School Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the High School job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for High Schools:

High school resume example, high school graduate resume example, high school student first job resume example, high school student with no experience resume example, high school senior resume example, more resume guidance:.

10+ Free High School Resume Templates for 2024

Writing your high school resume is already hard as it is - you shouldn’t have to spend hours working on your resume layout and format.

Want to fast-track your resume-creation process?

Use one of these 10+ free high school resume templates!

All you have to do is pick a template that resonates with you and fill in the contents. Zero formatting hassle is required!

10+ Free High School Resume Templates [Pick & Download]

#1. simple resume template.

This timeless layout works for everyone - highschoolers and seasoned professionals alike. 

The understated design and clean look put equal emphasis on all parts of your resume.

#2. Professional Resume Template

The Professional template puts more emphasis on your work experience and skills. Don’t have much work experience? You can always replace it with some other relevant section like extracurricular activities or volunteering experience.

#3. College Resume Template

Created with recent graduates in mind, this template is also suitably structured for any applicant with little to no work experience. 

#4. Creative Resume Template

If you’re looking for a job in the creative industry or want to try something a bit bolder, the Creative template is right for you. It’s guaranteed to stand out in any resume pile with its light on dark header and circle style skill graphs. 

#5. Modern Resume Template

The Modern template is a step up from the more basic designs. It has an organized look featuring brackets and squares.

#6. Functional Resume Template

The Functional Resume template puts more emphasis on your educational background, making it a perfect fit for highschoolers or just about anyone with no work experience.

#7. One Color Resume Template

This template is quite simple and to-the-point. The sections are clearly separated, and the resume objective is located top and center. Bonus points: you can even personalize this high school resume template by customizing the color scheme.

#8. Two-Column Resume Template

The template has a rather unique two-column resume structure . It is easy to skim and pleasant to look at. 

It also has a very compact look, making it perfect for job-seekers with no work experience.

#9. Vertical Header Resume Template

What’s interesting about this template is the vertical layout in the header section. It looks refreshing and straight-up cool. However, it’s a hit or miss kind of situation. The recruiter will either be intrigued by it, or be bothered by having to turn the page to the side. Use at your own risk.

#10. Infographic Resume Template

Infographic resume templates in general use graphs and charts to illustrate the information. This template in particular uses bubbles to portray skills and level of competence, as well as icons to illustrate interests. This makes the resume quick to skim through and the information easy to understand. 

How Long Should a High School Resume Be?

The resume length discussion has been going on for ages and typically, the answer tends to vary depending on industry and years of experience. 

When it comes to a high school resume, however, there’s no room for discussion: your resume should be one-page max. 

It’s justifiable to have a two-page resume in case you have, say 10+ years of experience in the industry (which you don’t).

If your draft resume ends up being longer, revise your content with a critical eye and cut out anything that’s not relevant for the job you’re applying for.

Remember: the recruiter wants to know what your top skills and experiences are, not your entire life story!

What Should I Include In My High School Resume?

In your high school resume, include the following sections:

• Contact Information - This consists of personal and contact information like first and last name, phone number, e-mail address, or links to other profiles. Make sure everything is written correctly so the recruiter can reach you back.
• Resume Objective - This is a 3-4 sentence statement that describes your career goals and aspirations as well as mentions your skills and achievements. It’s used to grab the recruiter’s attention and ensure that they read the rest of your resume.
• Education - You can already guess what this one’s about, right? You should list down your education institution (high school) as well as any academic-related certifications or achievements.
• Extracurricular Activities - This is your resume’s selling point. The equivalent of work experience, if you will. Your extracurriculars are usually participation in high school clubs or various events and they show the recruiter you’re a competent and engaged individual.
• Projects & Gigs - In this section, you’d mention any independent projects you’ve worked on outside of academics. For example, a side-gig or your own blog - anything that shows you’re a self-starter.
• Work Experience (optional) - If you have any, you can list your work experiences. An internship or volunteer work also qualifies for this section.
• Languages - An extra language or two will definitely give you an edge over the other candidates. So, if you’re good at languages, make sure to list a dedicated section for that!
• Hobbies & Interests - Choose a few things that will give the recruiter some insight into your personality. Bonus points if these hobbies and interests are related to the industry where you’re applying - they’ll show you’re passionate and genuinely interested in the job.

And that’s about it!

How to Create a High School Resume With No Work Experience?

You’ve probably heard of the famous trope:

“You need work experience to get a job, but a job to get work experience.”

Fortunately, it’s not actually true.

If you’re applying for an entry-level position in any field, no one’s actually expecting you to have work experience.

Instead, you can focus on the experiences you do have to stand out from the rest of the applicants. Some things you can include in your resume are:

• Extracurricular activities
• Projects & gigs
• Hobbies & interests
• Internships

Key Takeaways

And that’s about it on high school resume templates!

If you want to know more about what to write and how to write it, check out our in-depth guide to writing a high school resume .

Before you go your way, let’s go over the main points of this article one more time:

• Always use a high school resume template instead of working on your resume from scratch - trust us, it’s going to save you a lot of time.
• Stick to the one-page resume limit. The recruiter wants to know about your work experience, not about your entire life story.
• Instead of work experience, focus on alternative sections like extracurricular activities, projects, volunteering experience, and so on.

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How to Write a High School Student Resume

Writing a  high school student resume  when you have limited or no working experience is challenging. You have to sell yourself to a potential employer, and make yourself stand out from the crowd, but  how do you write a resume with no experience?

The good thing is that you probably have more things to add to your  first resume  than you imagine. All experience counts, whether it’s delivering newspapers, babysitting, or mowing lawns.

How do you do this, then?

Tips for writing a high school resume

The trick to writing a resume when you’re just out of high school is to  focus on your strengths . Though you may have limited paid experience, your qualifications, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities can make your  student resume  shine.

We know that  writing your first high school resume  can seem like a daunting task. However, if you take it step-by-step it is very simple. Here are some tips on how to do it.

Where to start with my high school resume

A good way to start is to look at some  entry – level resume examples  to give you an idea of what you should include on your high school resume. It is also highly beneficial to use a  resume writing guide  throughout the process.

What skills can high school students add to their resume?

If you are like many students, you probably feel you’re yet to accrue enough relevant experience to write a convincing resume. Nothing further from the truth. You probably have more  relevant knowledge  than you think.

Take into account your life experience, work experience, academic achievements,  volunteer work , skills, and personality strengths, and  write it all down . This list will come in useful when filling in those sections on your resume.

The  education section  is likely to be a key feature of your high school student resume, so rack your brain for  extracurricular activities . Include  honors and awards  and If you have been a member of a club, association, or sports team, mention it.

Do not be modest. Make it clear If you were captain of a team as it demonstrates  leadership skills . Likewise, if you have helped to run or organize something it shows you are responsible and have  organizational skills .

Focusing on your education and achievements at school will help you to write an attractive  high school student resume with no work experience .

Use a professional template

A resume is more than just a document describing your education and experience. It is a sales presentation. However, in this case, the product being sold is yourself. This means that how you present the information is just as important as the content itself.

Your resume must be  engaging and eye-catching  to maximize your chances of being noticed by employers. Nevertheless, don’t go overboard. Avoid too much color , extravagant designs, or excessively complicated formatting. Keep your resume simple, minimal, and professional.

To ensure the design you use is both  suitable and aesthetically pleasing , it makes sense to use a resume template that has been  professionally designed .

Keep your resume concise and direct

Studies have shown that recruiters only spend an  average of 7 seconds  looking at each resume. This means that overwhelming them with information and large blocks of text will be counterproductive to your success.

When writing your resume:

• Keep it brief and to the point
• Avoid including any extra information that doesn’t directly help your application
• Use bullet points where possible
• Keep the length of the document to one-page max

Scan each job description and identify the requirements

Read through the job description for each job position you are interested in and highlight the core skills and competencies.  Identify the keywords , normally there is a list of requirements and it is important to show you meet all of them.

The  skills section  of your resume needs to incorporate the appropriate  soft skills  (personality traits) which you must be able to demonstrate, such as leadership skills, reliability, and communication skills. As well as the necessary  hard skills  (technical or learnable skills) such as computer skills, foreign languages , and accountancy.

Identifying the key competencies will make it easy to know what  information you should add to your high school resume . This will include both soft and hard skills.

Add your education to your resume

In a high school resume, your  education is more important  than for an older or more experienced candidate. Unless you have a significant amount of work experience already, your high school education should come first.

When writing this section, it’s necessary to also add  all relevant details  in the correct order. Here’s the information you must include to correctly present your education :

• Name of degree
• Name of high school
• Years attended
• Courses that are relevant to the job

Include any work experience you may have

As mentioned previously, as a high school student, it’s very normal that you have little to no work experience to show. This is completely fine, and you can  fill this space with additional sections  we will elaborate upon later.

However, if you have already undertaken some positions or small roles , even if for a very short time, it’s always recommended to include them. Due to the fact that you’re still in high school, they will still represent an  enterprising attitude  to employers even if they aren’t strictly related.

When including your work history, make sure to list your  duties, responsibilities, and any achievements  you had using concise bullet points. Also, add your title during your time there, the company name, and the start/end dates of the experience.

Make sure you provide accurate contact information on your resume

Employers look at an incredibly large number of resumes each day. This means that the easier you make their life, the  better your chances  at landing an interview.

Having inaccurate or hard-to-find contact information can put them off from contacting you, and it may end up with your resume getting discarded. Therefore, it’s important you include your  full name, phone number, e-mail address , and any relevant social media links in a clearly visible position on your resume.

Double-check that all the information is correct, and give as many  contact details  as possible to enable the company to contact you via their preferred method of communication. Make sure to also use a professional email address to avoid giving a bad impression.

Write a compelling resume summary statement

A resume summary is a statement of  3-4 sentences  that outlines your skills, accomplishments, and career objectives. It should sum up why you’re applying for the position and how you are qualified for the role.

It’s important to also  adapt the statement to the job  you are applying to, mentioning capabilities and achievements that qualify you for the specific tasks you will be performing.

Below you can find  2 examples  of well-formulated resume summary statements:

• “Honor roll high school student with experience working with children and the elderly. Looking to help a community service organization to bring a positive change to their community.”
• “Dedicated and passionate high school student looking to bring a hard-working attitude to a sales assistant position. Confident individual with excellent communication and people skills.”

Tailor your resume to fit each job

Job candidates who do not tailor their resumes for each position are putting themselves at a disadvantage. A quick and easy way of  adapting your resume for each role is using a resume builder.

Once you have a list of your strengths and skills, and you have identified the key requirements of a job, it is simple to tailor your resume using a  high school resume template .

Think about what the employer is looking for and  highlight your achievements  which clearly demonstrate that you are the right person for the job.

Create additional resume sections

Although space is precious on a resume, additional sections can go a long way to  differentiate you from other candidates . As mentioned above, considering that as a high school student you may not have much work experience, adding more information can be an excellent way to show your potential.

Below are some of the  most successful optional sections  you can add to your resume:

• Hobbies and interests  are a great way to show who you are as a person. They make you seem like a well-rounded applicant who is motivated and passionate. Pastimes with skills that are transferable to the job you’re applying to are especially valuable to include. For example, being part of a sports team may indicate that you have strong teamwork abilities , communication skills, and a competitive mindset.
• Awards  can help sell yourself to employers. Regardless of the achievement, any successes you may have picked up during your high school career can help you stand out from the crowd.
• Volunteering experiences  are always a good addition to any resume. These show that you are a proactive individual who cares about other people or your community. People like to work with individuals who are generous and helpful, so make sure to list any volunteering projects or experiences you’ve undertaken.

What not to do on a high school student resume

There are certain pitfalls you need to avoid when  writing a high school resume . Make sure you avoid the following  common mistakes :

• Do not lie.  Many high school students make this mistake as they feel that they do not have enough experience. It can be very tempting to do so but it is risky.  You can easily get caught . Even if you get away with it and end up getting the job, it could become obvious that you do not have the skills,  qualifications , or experience you claimed to have.
• Do not use fillers . When writing a  high school student resume with no work experience,  the space on the page can seem infinite. There are a number of  things not to include on your resume . Everything you write on your resume should help to sell you in some way. Padding out your resume will not only be a waste of necessary space but it will also distract the employer from the good parts. Using a  high school student resume template  will help you to fill your resume with your strong points, no fillers are needed.
• Proofread your resume multiple times . Making typos and other silly mistakes does not give a positive first impression and it looks amateurish. Proofread your resume numerous times and then  give it to at least one other person to look at . Sometimes it can be hard to spot your own mistakes. Make sure your resume looks like a  professional resume , not a  resume for teens .
• Do not include a photo.  Within the United States, photos are not generally used for almost any type of job application. Unless you’re applying to a role which asks for a professional headshot, there’s no reason for your resume to have a picture of you. In fact, including a photo may lead employers to  automatically dismiss your resume  to avoid the risk of accidentally discriminating. This is because there are laws in the US to ensure companies  do not discriminate against candidates  based on their race, gender, or age.
• Do not use an objective statement.  As mentioned above, a summary statement is a great addition to your resume to show both your value and motivation for the role. However, objective statements tend to be generic and they  do not help recruiters  to understand your qualifications or actual goals. An example of such a sentence is: “Motivated high school student looking for first work experience”. This vague statement  provides no real information  and does not help the candidate to market themselves.

High School Resume Example

Now that you know the fundamentals on how to craft the best possible high school resume, it’s helpful to examine a  real example  before starting your own.

The following resume was created using the ResumeCoach  resume builder . Thanks to this service, you can pick the template that strikes your fancy from a comprehensive library of options, including this one. You can also customize the template based on your particular needs and specifications.

Using this kind of tool, you will input your information through a  simple step-by-step process  and find expert guidance along the way. In just a few minutes, you will end up with an optimized resume. Take a look at how your end-result might turn out!

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Anatomy of a High School Résumé

What is a résumé.

A résumé is a document that summarizes your knowledge, skills, abilities, experiences, and accomplishments. Think of a résumé as an introduction, helping people get to know you. A high school résumé outlines your interests and goals so people know what you enjoy and where you see yourself going.

Do I need a résumé in high school?

Yes! High school is a good time to begin putting your résumé together. Whether you’re thinking about getting a job, going to college , or doing volunteer work, you may be asked to provide a résumé. A common use for a résumé is to screen applicants for potential jobs . Employers can look through a résumé to quickly determine if someone’s skills, experience, and interests match what they’re looking for. In addition to employers, colleges often invite applicants to include a résumé. Therefore, having a résumé that’s detailed, properly formatted, and up to date is important.

Where do I begin?

Résumés have many acceptable résumé templates and formats─including both paper and digital versions. When choosing the format you want to use, think about what the standard is for the job or organization you’re applying to. Many places have preferred formats.  Follow any guidelines provided to improve your chances for success. Look for résumé examples online to see how other people have crafted their résumés, and apply what you like to your résumé. However, keep in mind that format is less important than content. Focus most on what you’re sharing, not on document design.

How do I write my résumé?

Typically, a high school résumé consists of these sections:

• Header: Include your name and contact information.
• Education: List schools you’ve attended, including graduation dates (if you’ve graduated). Include special courses or areas of interest, particularly if they’re related to the job, school, or opportunity you’re applying for. Include academic honors and awards.
• Skills and Experience: List and skills you learned or demonstrated in paid employment or unpaid volunteer work. Put everything in reverse order, adding start and end dates. List relevant extracurricular activities, as well as club or organization leadership roles.  Show the reader your accomplishments, not just responsibilities. Presenting data such as the number of people you served, projects you completed, or awards received can help tell your story.
• Special Skills: List skills that could be a benefit to the school or employer. This could be languages you speak, computer programs you know how to use, or personality traits (e.g., good with kids, comfortable talking on the phone, enjoy public speaking).

Résumé Writing Tips

If you’re new to résumé writing, it can feel overwhelming. Take your time and be patient. Here are some tips to get started writing your résumé in high school:

• Write your résumé in reverse chronological order. Put your most recent experience and schooling at the top. Then work your way backward.
• Make sure that everything you’ve included is relevant and worded concisely. Limit the résumé to one page.
• Don’t worry about making your résumé flashy. It’s better to keep everything simple, clear, and easy to read than to use unique fonts, images, or layouts. 
• Remember to be accurate. Never exaggerate or bend the truth.  
• Make sure to proofread your résumé more than once, looking for typos, misspellings, and incorrect grammar and punctuation. Then have someone else look over it. Mistakes can make the reader feel you’re not as thorough, careful, or detail oriented as they’d like you to be. 
• Add new experiences and skills to your résumé as you gain them. As time passes, delete the oldest and least relevant experiences. It’s okay to revise your résumé as your interests and goals change.  

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Level Up Your Student Resume With Professional Templates

Impress hiring managers and schools with a clean-cut, classic resume that makes your strengths and achievements shine.

Professional

Worried that your resume won’t be taken seriously as a high school or college student? This resume template’s sharp format frames you as an up-and-coming professional to watch.

With its compelling icons and thoughtful use of color, the Cool resume template is a top choice for anyone looking to create an attention-grabbing resume.

Charm hiring managers and schools with an ultra-modern student resume that instantly conveys why you’re a candidate worth interviewing.

Contemporary

You want to be a leader of tomorrow, so shouldn't your student resume look equally forward-thinking? The Contemporary’s eye-catching but refined looks can help you prove you’re a trailblazer.

Effortlessly stand out from the crowd with the Awesome resume template’s unique two-column design and easy-to-read format.

How to Write a Resume Objective or Summary for your Student Resume

In order to impress schools and hiring managers from the get-go, your resume needs to have a strong opening section. That’s why we strongly recommend including a resume summary at the top of your resume, underneath your contact information.

In the past, applicants for schools or jobs could choose between writing a resume objective or a resume summary. Now, resume experts generally agree that including a resume objective is no longer in line with best practice. The reason is that a resume objective essentially highlights your goals as a candidate. In contrast, a resume summary conveys how you will be able to support the school or company you’re applying for to meet their goals.

So what exactly is a resume summary, then? A resume summary is the first major section of your resume. It should succinctly present the case for why you’re an ideal candidate for the position or school you’re applying for. 

As it should only be two to four sentences long, you will need to focus only on your most relevant qualities and attributes that make you an attractive candidate or prospective student.

In order to write a strong resume objective or summary, you must make two things crystal clear:

• What the academic or professional position is you are applying for 
• What makes you the best person to fulfill it

Let’s start with the first part. You should clearly state the purpose of your application. For example, you may wish to:

• Study at a particular college or join a particular program/course 
• Be hired for a job at a college fair or internship fair 
• Be hired as an entry-level worker or summer worker

Next, you must summarize some of the standout qualities and attributes that make you worth considering for the given role. The qualities and attributes you highlight should be directly relevant to the role and should be expanded on in the other sections of your resume. You can mention such things as your:

• Educational background
• Academic achievements
• Soft and hard skills
• Work experiences
• Volunteer work
• Any other standout achievements

Try your best to use keywords from the job advertisement or school application to demonstrate that you possess the very qualities and attributes the hiring manager or school is looking for. 

Keywords are words or phrases within a job ad or school application that represent what the hiring manager or school are looking for from their ideal candidate. Keywords can include particular competencies, skills, experiences, attributes, studies, and so on.

How to Write a Work Experience Section for your Student Resume

The work experience section is perhaps the resume section that students dread the most when creating their high school resume or college resume. The reason is that many students don’t know where to begin or may not have held a job before. 

The good news is that writing a compelling work experience section really isn’t as difficult as it seems - even if you’ve never been in the working world before. In either case, the most important thing is to make sure your work experience section sounds as relevant as possible to the given job or educational opportunity you are applying for. 

If you don’t have any work experience at all, don’t stress! You can instead focus on your: 

• Volunteer work 
• School activities
• Side projects

Spend time brainstorming how to present these experiences in a way that makes them as relevant as possible to the job or school you are applying for. 

For example, did you demonstrate any soft or hard skills that will be useful to the role or your studies? Or maybe you achieved something that showcases what an excellent employee or student you will be? Remember, framing is everything when it comes to your resume! You can do this by integrating keywords that apply to your experiences throughout this section. This will help you to work out what professional experiences will capture the hiring manager or school’s attention. 

However, be sure to steer clear of ‘keyword stuffing’! This term is used to describe when people unnaturally add keywords to their resume in order to game the system. Always integrate keywords in a natural-sounding way and only use those that genuinely apply to your skills and experiences. 

It’s also important to think about this section as a way to showcase your very best professional achievements in each past position. That is, instead of just listing what you did, focus on conveying how your actions and skills made a positive difference.

In order to make your achievements shine, you will need to: 

• Start each one with a verb (action word).
• Make them short and snappy: Stick to one sentence each.
• Quantify them using numbers, percentages, and examples where possible.

For each position you include in this section, you will need to state the title you held, the company name, and the dates you worked there.

If you’re unsure of how to format your work experience section, simply use one of our expert-designed resume templates and our resume builder to ensure you get it right. You can also check out the expert tips for writing your work experience section we’ve included within our resume builder .

How to Write a Skills Section for Your Student Resume

Just like your work experience section, your resume’s skills section should be as relevant as possible to the position or educational opportunity you are applying for. 

Analyze the job ad or school application to identify skill-based keywords. You may wish to print out the job ad or school application and physically highlight these words to make it easier for you to work out which keywords to focus on.

Keep in mind that there are two types of skills to look out for:

• Soft skills: Those related to your interpersonal or communication skills.
• Hard skills: Technical, practical skills.

You will need to include a balance of both to show that you’re a well-rounded candidate. Think carefully about which ones are most applicable to your skillset and the job or school at hand, and list 6 to 8 of the most relevant ones in this section. 

Don’t forget you will also need to integrate skills throughout your work experience section too.

If you’re finding it hard to come up with relevant skills to add to your high school or college resume, don’t worry. Our resume builder has hundreds of examples of skills you can simply click and add to your resume.

Again, if you want to see how to effectively format this section, check out one of our many resume templates.

How to Write an Education & Coursework Section for your Student Resume

Your education & coursework section is one of the most important sections in your high school resume or college resume.

Even if an application does not specifically ask you to share your educational background on your resume, it is generally expected that you will. After all, your studies help to paint a picture of your knowledge, skills, interests, and academic abilities. 

As you can see from our library of resume templates, there are a few different ways that you can format your education & coursework section. That said, the general format of this section is as follows: [High School or College Name]

[Dates attended] 

[Subject studied (optional)]

If you want to guarantee you don’t make any formatting errors, just use our resume builder to create your resume! 

How to Write an Awards & Achievements Section for your Student Resume

Want to take your student resume to the next level? Adding an awards & achievements section is an easy way to capture attention. 

Before you say, “But I don’t have any awards or achievements!” take a moment to think back on your studies so far. Chances are that you have much more to highlight than you first realize. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Your GPA (If 3.5 or higher)
• Being part of the student body
• Academic awards
• Professional awards
• Valedictorian and Dean’s lists
• Being in the top X% of your class/course
• Professional achievements e.g. selling X amount of products or increasing profits by Y%
• Relevant school/college societies or groups you are part of
• Scholarships
• Any journals you have been published in or research papers you have written
• Relevant non-profit work you have completed (such as volunteering and fundraising)

So how can you correctly format this section of your resume?

You can list each award or achievement, along with the date you received/achieved it and any other specifics that would help the person reading it better understand why the award or achievement is relevant. 

If you are short on space, you can feature your academic awards and achievements in your education & coursework section instead.

Related Student Resume Examples & Samples

Take a look at the following tried-and-tested resume examples and samples for inspiration.

When you’re ready to make your own impressive high school or college resume, our state-of-the-art resume builder will guide you every step of the way.

College Student Resume

High School Student Resume

Internship Resume

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Transitioning from High School to College

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First years, as you are taking the time to get adjusted and acclimated into your new environment, you may want to start exploring Duke and looking into clubs/organizations of interest. In doing so, you may notice that some clubs/organizations will ask for a resume, how comfortable do you feel about your resume? We know you have a high school resume which you used for your Duke application, but you can start slowly converting your high school resume into your college resume.

What does that look like? Well, converting your high school resume into your college resume does not mean that you remove all traces of high school from your resume. Your high school years are the only experiences you have at this point; therefore they will have a huge presence on your resume. Take a look below at a few small pieces of advice to get you started:

• In your personal information section, include your Duke email address
• Within your education section, add Duke University to your resume in reverse chronological order (it would go above your high school info)
• You can include your “intended major” in your education section
• Start including some of the clubs/organizations, volunteer info, or projects you’ve started working on while at Duke

Keep in mind that your high school information can remain on your resume until your Junior year, but you will slowly replace it with Duke experiences. You can also review our Resume Guide , which houses a first-year sample resume . Once you’ve completed those initial steps, if you’d like to have your resume reviewed you can attend Drop-in Advising or Quick Question Fridays to have it reviewed!

11 Things to Consider When Choosing a High School

Take these factors into account to determine the best fit for a soon-to-be high school student.

Choosing a High School: What to Consider

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For the high school experience to be fruitful, experts say it's important that students are in the right environment.

Whether the goal is to attend college or take another route , much of the groundwork for a student's future is laid in high school .

But for the experience to be fruitful, experts say it's important that students are in the right environment.

"Choosing a high school isn't just about the brand name," Pierre Huguet, CEO and founder of admissions consulting firm H&C Education, wrote in an email. "Parents want to make sure their child will be happy on a campus that meets their academic, extracurricular, and personal needs."

Some families have more choices than others when it comes to high schools, depending on their financial situation and where they live. For those who can choose and are considering a private or boarding school , looking at public schools outside their district , or thinking about a charter or magnet school, here are 11 things experts say families should consider.

Academic Program Offerings

One of the first determining factors for many families is the type of academic programs a school offers, experts say. Parents should research whether a school offers dual enrollment , Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate programs, "or other ways that courses can be accredited or partner with another external institution to provide that level of academic rigor," says Sasha Chada, founder and CEO of admissions consulting firm Ivy Scholars.

"Parents who want their children to go on to higher education should look for more rigorous coursework," he says.

If the student is interested in pursuing a particular subject area, such as theater or journalism, parents might also want to consider whether the school provides related opportunities.

Determining how much money to spend – if any – on a child's high school tuition can be a challenging but important decision for parents.

“Take a hard look at the public schools in your area ... before you start applying to top private schools, because you just might have a gem in your neck of the woods," says Brian Taylor, managing partner at college admissions consulting firm Ivy Coach. "That public school might be more highly regarded than the top private school."

Many private schools offer financial aid or scholarships to help offset the cost.

Extracurricular Activities

In addition to academic success, extracurriculars play a significant role in college admissions. Many students participate in clubs, sports teams and school organizations, so it's important to weigh the options a school offers, especially if a student has a specific hobby, experts say.

If an activity isn’t offered, students should ask if the school would allow them to create their own club or be creative in accommodating an interest, says Nellie Brennan Hall, a senior private counselor at education consulting firm Top Tier Admissions. Launching a club demonstrates leadership, experts say, which can be a differentiating factor for students in college admissions.

Extracurriculars can also play a vital role in helping students enjoy their time in high school. For students whose plans don't include college, extracurriculars can be a way to develop skills and further cultivate interests and relationships that help forge a path for their future, experts say.

Parents should consider the location of the school and the logistics of how their child will commute. In-district public schools generally offer bus transportation, and students who live close enough may also be able to walk or bicycle to school.

A private or magnet school or out-of-district public school may not offer buses and require a longer commute, which may be tiring for students and cut into free time or fun activities, Huguet says.

"Not only is this a time sink, but being located far from school can make it much harder for students to get involved with extracurriculars there," Chada says.

Getting a feel for a school's diversity should be a high priority for families, experts say.

No matter what type of school a student attends, there are often tradeoffs when it comes to racial, economic and other forms of diversity, Chada says, so families should consider what's most important to them. In addition to demographics, parents might want to examine how schools demonstrate sensitivity to various cultural issues and how they teach about race and racism.

A 2016 report from the Century Foundation, a progressive New York-based think tank, says there's a body of research indicating that students benefit from being in diverse classroom settings.

"If reams of social science evidence is correct in arguing that diversity makes us smarter, and if higher education researchers are correct about their findings related to college students," the report says, "our elementary and secondary education students have much to learn and gain from public schools that are diverse and in which professional educators know how to build on that diversity to help all students learn deeper, better, and more creatively about themselves and others."

School Size and Environment

Whether it's a small school that can provide students with more personal attention or a larger school with more opportunities to build relationships, parents should pick the environment that's best for their child.

Families may also want to consider the school's student-teacher ratio. Though Chada favors smaller class sizes , he says large schools with bigger class sizes can still provide quality learning opportunities and support for students.

School counselors are a vital part of the college admissions process, Brennan Hall says, and a school's size may affect a counselor's availability to students. If a small teacher-student ratio is important to families, they may want to also consider a school's counselor-student ratio.

Resources for Special Needs

Experts say one advantage of larger schools is that they tend to have more resources available for students with special needs. And public schools are required by federal law to provide an appropriate education for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment possible.

Private schools are not subject to this requirement, though some cater specifically to students with disabilities. Families for whom this is a priority should determine if their child's needs can be met at a particular school.

"Visit learning centers and schedule times to speak with representatives who can explain the services available for students with special needs," Huguet says. "If your child has special needs, this step should take precedence over all of the other variables."

School Culture

The culture or vibe of a school can make or break a family's decision. The best way to determine if a school's culture is a good fit is by visiting the school and seeing how students interact with each other and with staff, experts say.

"Parents need to think deeply about their individual child and what type of culture will help them thrive," Brennan Hall says. "Some students love a competitive environment. Some prefer a religious school where many students share their faith. Others truly blossom in a nurturing culture."

Graduation and College Attendance Rates

While families may not want to base their decision on numbers alone, certain statistics can suggest how successfully a school prepares students for the next stage of their lives.

Two stats to consider are graduation rates and college attendance rates, experts say. Many schools also list the colleges their students attend. This information is typically found on the high school's profile page, which is generally linked on the school's website.

Students should look at average SAT and ACT scores from the school and match them to the target test scores of the colleges they're applying to, Chada says. Average AP scores can also show how strong a public school is, he says.

"Also look for the number of universities that students matriculated at from your school and ask yourself if these are the kind of universities that you’d want to go to," he says. "It’s easy to figure out if you’re going to be a good fit."

Safety and Security

School shootings and cyberbullying are increasing, according to a 2023 report prepared for the National Center for Education Statistics. The number of shootings with casualties increased from 11 in 2009 to 188 during the 2021-22 school year, according to the report, which was based on data from the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics.

The report also indicates that nearly 8% of public schools reported at least one incident of cyberbullying among students per week during the 2009-2010 academic year. That number increased to nearly 16% during the 2019-2020 academic year.

Issues of student safety and security "have become differentiating factors for families over growing concerns about violence in schools," Huguet says. "Parents should look into the school's safety policies, procedures, and request records of incidents."

As technology plays an increasing role in teaching and learning, it's important to understand what technology is available at a school and determine whether it fits the student's needs or interests.

Huguet also recommends asking whether schools restrict or encourage access to certain new digital tools, like ChatGPT .

"Parents should feel free to ask about how technology is used in the classroom and whether the school adapts its curriculum accordingly to help students develop critical thinking skills and learn about new systems," he says.

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