One of the top factors of an organization’s performance is its workforce, as it impacts its products, services, and client relations. This is why losing high-performing employees may have anegative impact on the bottom line. It is important for employers to understand the causes of employee turnover, how to avoid them, and how to determine the best strategies for retention.
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What is education verification?
Education verification is a process conducted prior to hiring a candidate, typically after a conditional offer of employment is made. This process may confirm a candidate’s attendance dates at an educational institution and/or the degree received. Employers usually reach out directly to the schools to obtain this information.
In what situations would employers want to verify an applicant's education?
Employers may need to verify an applicant's education when specific training or qualifications are essential for the job's responsibilities. In some cases, an applicant's educational background can play a role in financial decisions, such as determining their starting salary. Even when there are no strict educational requirements and on-the-job training is provided, verifying educational history can help ensure the accuracy of the information presented by candidates. Any dishonesty on a resume or application could influence hiring choices.
How do employers perform education verification?
Employers must adhere to applicable privacy laws in Canada, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), as well as any notice and consent requirements. There are three common methods for conducting education verification:
- Contacting the educational institutions directly.
- Requesting candidates to provide copies of their diplomas or transcripts.
- Engaging a third-party background check service.
The third option is often the most efficient and reliable approach, as many background check providers also offer criminal history checks and may conduct any necessary drug or medical screenings.
What does a background check for education show?
When background screening providers verify education, they may provide the following details:
- The degree conferred upon completion of coursework.
- Dates of enrollment and attendance.
- The educational level attained (e.g., high school, college, or GED).
If employers require more specific information, such as grade point average (GPA) or details about completed coursework, they may need to request a copy of the transcript directly from the candidate.
How to choose the best education verification service
Navigating the regulations surrounding background checks can be complex, which is why employers should seek screening service providers that:
- Are reputable and knowledgeable about Canadian laws.
- Incorporate compliance measures into their services.
- Collaborate with employers to understand their compliance needs.
- Offer recommendations for best practices in conducting compliant background screenings.
Frequently asked questions
How far back do education background checks go?
Background checks typically focus on verifying whether a candidate has received a degree from a post-secondary educational institution. If necessary, confirmations may also be made for high school diplomas and GED credentials.
How can I check international education?
The verification processes for educational credentials vary by country. Employers wishing to validate degrees earned outside Canada may need to engage a screening service provider and seek legal counsel to ensure compliance with international privacy regulations and employment laws.
What legal restrictions are related to education verification?
In Canada, privacy laws protect personal information, including educational records. Employers using third-party services for background checks must follow relevant regulations, which require certain notices and consent from candidates prior to verification. Employers must also allow candidates the opportunity to correct any inaccurate information before making adverse employment decisions based on background checks. Provincial laws may further influence the scope and timing of these checks.
Is GPA included in an education background check?
Typically, GPA is not included in standard education verification processes. Employers who need this information may have to request transcripts directly from the candidates.
Learn More
Need help with background screening and education verification? You can benefit from ADP’s talent solutions.
Talk to us about your goals, and we’ll walk you through our solutions — including how companies like yours use them. Call 866-622-8153 or start a quote.
This guide is intended to be used as a starting point in analyzing education verification and is not a comprehensive resource of requirements. It offers practical information concerning the subject matter and is provided with the understanding that ADP is not rendering legal or tax advice or other professional services.
