How to List an In-Progress Qualification on Your CV

Applying for jobs while you're still studying? You're not alone! Many students begin job hunting before completing their course – but knowing how to list an in-progress qualification on your CV can be confusing.

Should you include it at all? How do you word it? And will employers take it seriously?

The short answer is yes – you can (and should!) include your ongoing qualifications on your CV. Not only does it show that you’re actively developing your knowledge and skills, but it also signals to employers that you’re committed to progressing in your chosen career.

Whether you’re working towards a CIPD, AAT, GCSE, or any other professional qualification, we’ll walk you through the best way to list an incomplete qualification on your CV – helping you open doors to new opportunities! 

Top Tips for Listing Your Ongoing Qualification

1. Consider your CV format 

While most people will place their in-progress qualification under the ‘Education’ section on their CV, where these sections sit will depend on the type of job you're applying for and how much experience you have. 

If, for example, the qualification you're studying is relevant to the role you're applying for, it's a good idea to list your qualification near the top of your CV under your 'Personal Profile'.  

For example: 

• Contact Details 
• Personal Profile 
• Education/Training & Certificates 
• Work Experience 
• Skills & Achievements 
• References 

However, if you have more extensive work experience related to your in-progress qualification, employers will likely want to see that first! In this case, you’ll want to put your 'Work Experience' under your ‘Personal Profile’, followed by your 'Education' section.

Also, remember to list your qualifications in reverse order with the most recent and relevant first! 

2. Be honest and clear 

The worst thing you can do on your CV is lie or exaggerate the truth, so it's important to be transparent with where you're at in your upskilling journey. 

For example, highlight your current progress with phrases like: 

• Currently studying 
• In progress 
• Expected completion [Month/Year]

These are perfectly acceptable ways to present your in-progress qualification professionally and with integrity. You'll also want to include:

1. The full name of your qualification (including awarding body & level) 
2. The provider (e.g., ICS Learn)
3. Your expected completion date (which helps employers understand your timeline)

Example: 

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management
ICS Learn | In Progress – Expected Completion: August 2025

3. Mention the modules you're studying 

If you’re studying modules that are especially relevant to the job, you can also add a short bullet point list underneath your listed qualification.

If your course is split up into modules that are assessed individually, it might be worthwhile to list the ones that you’ve completed and update as you progress. This will give employers an indication of the skills and knowledge that you’ve already acquired.

Example:

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management
ICS Learn | In Progress – Expected Completion: August 2025

• Completed modules include Organisational Performance and Evidence-Based Practice
• Currently studying Employee Engagement and Strategic HR Planning

4. Highlight the skills you're gaining 

In your 'Personal Profile' or cover letter, you can mention your in-progress qualification with a reference to the skills you're learning, reinforcing your interest and credibility in your field.

Example CV summary: 

"Motivated HR professional currently studying the CIPD Level 5 Diploma in People Management with ICS Learn. Actively building expertise in employee relations, talent development, and strategic HR practices."

This lets employers know that you’re not only working towards a recognised qualification but that you’re also gaining practical knowledge that’s relevant to the role.

Advance Your Career While You Study

Studying for a qualification doesn’t mean putting your career on hold. In fact, your in-progress course can be one of your biggest assets when applying for jobs.

At ICS Learn, thousands of students have used their studies to unlock new career opportunities before they’ve even finished their qualification – and you can too! 

It's your future, your way! 

Take the next step towards your career goals and enrol on a 100% online professional qualification today.