Secondary education in USA: school structure for families

Secondary Education in the United States

Elementary School: Grades 1-5

In elementary school, a student will receive five levels of education. These five steps are designed to introduce children to a wide range of basic subjects: reading, writing, basic math and English, social skills and physical development.

Secondary School: Grades 6-8

Secondary school falls in grades 6 through 8. In addition to the required courses (math, physics, chemistry, English, literature, geography, social studies, history, and physical education), students can choose electives.

High School: Grades 9-12

The number of required subjects is reduced. Preparation for entry into higher education institutions begins. Students enjoy maximum freedom in choosing the subjects they study. Added subject of increased complexity - Advanced Placement (AP). The more APs a student completes, the better his chances of getting into college. At the end of high school, a standardized SAT test is taken, the results of which are required for applying to college or university.

Characteristics of private and public schools

There are two types of schools in the United States: private (private) and public (public). Their educational programs can vary greatly. The reason for this is the amount of money that comes from the property taxes of the local population. The wealthier and more expensive the area where the school is located, the more funding it receives. Statistically, the strongest teachers and the highest level of education for their children are among them.

Private schools are independent of the city budget. The special feature is that they are supported by the sponsorship and fees paid by the students. In these institutions, excellent material and technical support, elite faculty, so that you get a well-rounded education. Private resources are a powerful stepping stone for continuing education, awarding scientific degrees and providing children with an excellent knowledge base.

How to enter a private school in the United States

Before entering a U.S. private school, you need to choose an appropriate educational institution that offers a curriculum close to your child's preferences. After choosing an educational institution, you will need to collect the following documents.

  • Photo 

  • Application for admission.

  • Transcripts of the last 2-3 years.

  • Letters of recommendation from teachers and classroom teachers.

  • Essay 

  • Diplomas, awards, certificates, trophies, etc.

  • SSAT test scores.

In addition, to enter a private school in the United States, you will need to pass an interview with a representative of the educational institution. It is important to note that private schools have a strict screening process for applicants, so your child must be prepared for admission and the interview.

How much does it cost to study in the U.S.?

The cost of education in the United States varies depending on the prestige, rating and state of the educational institution.

International exchange programs that provide homestay and education for high school students in U.S. public schools cost about $8,500 - $10,500 per year.

The price of education at prestigious private schools is so high that less than 5% of U.S. students attend such schools. The cost of studying and living at a private day school ranges from $18,000 to $25,000 per year.

The most elite private boarding schools offer students permanent residency, many additional departments, and excellent college preparatory programs. Tuition at these schools ranges from $45,000 to $80,000 per year, and may incur additional fees.

The cost of studying at a U.S. university also depends on many factors, including state and citizenship status. The cost of studying at a university can range from $10,000-$30,000 per year, not including living expenses. Pre-college programs for international students before entering U.S. colleges and universities cost $10,000 for 6 months.

Free Education Opportunities

Education in the United States is one of the most expensive in the world, so the possibility of obtaining additional funding is especially important. The main financial support programs are

Scholarships for Gifted Students

Bursaries for students who are unable to pay for their studies on their own

Sports scholarships

Other types of financial aid from educational institutions

Financial support is available for both U.S. and international students. In order to gather all the necessary documentation and meet the required deadlines, the search for financial aid must begin one or two years prior to entering the educational institution of choice.

Students have the opportunity to study in the United States through an exchange program that offers multiple semesters of internship or homestay or campus study.

It is important to remember that if the educational institution covers some of the costs, they will most likely be related to the study, while the student will be responsible for his or her own expenses for housing, meals, etc.

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