High School

High School in the USA roughly corresponds to upper secondary education in the European education system.
Degree type: High School Diploma.

Study Abroad (GAP year)

Study abroad typically refers to a shorter program where you study for 1–2 semesters and choose your courses on-site, allowing you to create your own program. This is very common at community colleges but is also offered at some colleges and universities. If you are studying at a university, you may have the opportunity to transfer the credits you earn.
Study abroad is a popular study option and is ideal for those who want to try studying in the USA. It is also an excellent way to begin a certificate or associate’s degree. Studying in the USA for a year is often referred to as a “gap year.”

Certificate

A certificate program typically takes about one year to complete and involves choosing a major field of study, where some courses are required while others are elective. Earning a certificate means you receive a certification within your chosen field and can be compared to a vocational program, where you gain proof that you have the qualifications or knowledge required for a specific profession. Of course, you can continue your studies and pursue an associate’s degree afterward.
Degree Type: Certificate of Completion (C)
Level: Undergraduate, Graduate

Read more about certificates here.

Associate’s Degree

An Associate’s Degree is a foundational degree typically earned at a community or city college and usually takes about two years of full-time study to complete. Associate’s degrees provide a broad academic foundation and can be used as a stepping stone toward a Bachelor’s degree or as a career-focused program to prepare for specific career paths. They are also often transferable to four-year colleges and universities.

An Associate’s Degree is roughly equivalent to two years of university or higher education in Europe.

Degree Types:
Associate of Arts (A.A.): Typically awarded to students studying humanities, business, or social sciences.
Associate of Science (A.S.): Typically awarded to students studying scientific and technical fields.
Level: Undergraduate

Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s Degree is a foundational academic degree typically earned at a college or university in the USA and usually requires four years of full-time study. Most undergraduate programs take four years to complete, though there are exceptions. Some programs, especially in fields like engineering and architecture, may take longer—typically five years. Conversely, motivated students can sometimes complete a Bachelor’s degree in three years by taking summer courses or an increased course load.

In the US, a Bachelor’s Degree generally corresponds to a European candidate in terms of level and academic achievement. It is the first level of higher education and provides students with a broad education in their major, along with general education requirements across various subjects. After completing a Bachelor’s Degree, students can choose to pursue a master’s or doctoral program if they wish to deepen their knowledge in a specific field or continue their studies.

Examples of Degree Types:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): Typically awarded to students studying humanities, business, or social sciences.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Typically awarded to students studying scientific and technical fields.
Level: Undergraduate

Master’s Degree

A Master’s Degree is an advanced academic degree that follows a Bachelor’s Degree. It allows students to deepen their knowledge and expertise in a specific subject or professional field. To earn a Master’s Degree, students typically complete an additional 1 to 2 years of study after finishing their Bachelor’s Degree. During this time, they take advanced courses, engage in projects, or conduct research in their chosen area. A Master’s Degree usually opens doors to more specialized careers and can also serve as preparation for doctoral studies for those wishing to further advance their knowledge.

Examples of Degree Types:
Master of Arts (MA)
Master of Science (MS)
Master of Business Administration (MBA), among others
Level: Graduate

Doctor’s Degree

A Doctor’s Degree involves at least four years of postgraduate research study following a Bachelor’s Degree.
Degree Types: Many, depending on your field of study.
Level: Graduate.