Education background checks pertain to those individuals employed in the education industry. The Education Act of 2002 prohibits the employment of unsuitable persons in capacities such as providing education at a school, providing education under a contract of employment, and doing any work that brings a person into regular contact with children. Employers are required to conduct background checks that verify identity and include criminal history.

Sources for Educational Background Checks

Online background screening services are experienced in requirements of the education industry. In addition to criminal history, reports might include address checks, social security number checks, credit checks, and employment checks. A reputable company will show evidence of compliance with Fair Credit Reporting Act regulations. They should have proof of being a secure website, such as security locks and certificates. It is the employers' responsibility to check rules and regulations pertaining to using these reports.

It is believed that educational history is the most commonly falsified information on resumés. A recent survey found that 89 percent of job applicants exaggerated something on their resué. Approximately nine percent claimed an educational degree they did not have. Conducting background checks on educational records is a relatively new situation. In the past, it was assumed that most people followed an honor system and that resumés were truthful. Today's increased emphasis on safety and security has forced employers to include educational records in their background checks.

With the current national emphasis on security, background checking companies offer their services to check facts pertaining to education. The scope of the information is limited by law. Reports will include a verification of attendance at a particular institution, verification of a degree, and date that the degree was awarded. Specifics pertaining to grades and performance will not be available. This information will provide added security for employers when they make decisions about hiring.