Microsoft Word - Evaluating Foreign Transcripts The A to Z Manual

Evaluating

Foreign

Transcripts

A Resource Guide for

School Districts

Provided by the Rhode Island Department of Education

Foreword

This document was adapted from guidance produced by the Office of Youth Development and

School-Community Services (OYDSCS) of the New York City Department of Education (DOE). The

original document can be found at http://schools.nyc.gov/Teachers/guidance/Academic/default.htm.

It is intended as a reference tool for districts to assist school staff members with evaluating foreign

transcripts for students newly enrolling from other countries.

When using this manual it is important to keep in mind that several school systems and grading

policies might exist within each country, as in the United States. Careful judgment and discretion

are advised when utilizing the information presented in this manual. The information provides a

general picture of the most commonly used systems in other countries and grading scales,

recommended courses, and the equivalent credit within U.S. schools.

Evaluators are advised to:

 Carefully examine all official documents for authenticity.

 Ensure that translations are provided by a qualified source.

 Interview entering students and their parents/guardians.

 Contact the sending school, embassy, Ministry of Education or other authorized agencies

when necessary.

School Responsibility

Schools or districts are responsible for conducting the evaluation of the transcript.

Each school or district should have a well-defined procedure, including the roles and

responsibilities of staff members involved, for timely evaluation of transcripts according to

guidelines set forth in this manual.

Recommended Practice for Evaluating Transcripts

The following are recommended procedures for evaluating transcripts:

1. Examine official documents for authenticity.

2. Ensure transcripts in a language other than English are translated by a competent translator

available within the school or region. In the event there is no available translator, the district

may contract for translation with a local translation/interpretation company. A directory may

be found at http://www.riedc.com/business-services/international-trade-and-

exporting/resource-directory/translation-interpreting-services.

Documents translated by family members should not be accepted as official

documents. All translations should be verbatim without interpretation or evaluation of

information.

3. Interview the student and parent/guardian to review the transcript and prior studies in order

to obtain clarification on curriculum, amount of time spent in each course, grading policies

and other pertinent information helpful to the evaluation process. The recommended

statewide ELL identification procedure contains a parent interview that will ensure the

necessary information is gathered to satisfy criterion. It may be found at

http://www.ride.ri.gov/applications/ell/who-are-ells/ri_ells.php.

4. Determine if content course placement testing is necessary in those cases in which

information or achievement is unclear. This is distinct from language proficiency testing for

ELL program placement. That procedure and those criteria are outlined in the recommended

statewide ELL identification procedure document at

http://www.ride.ri.gov/applications/ell/who-are-ells/ri_ells.php.

5. Refer to the Country Index (Section II of this manual) to assist with the conversion of grades

to award appropriate course and grade credit.

6. Follow established school procedures for ensuring that transfer credit is updated on the

student’s official transcript.

7. Establish a procedure for informing student and parent of the results of the evaluation.

8. Maintain all documentation in the student’s official file.

9. Notify and consult with receiving teachers and Department Supervisors or

Heads for

academic content course placements and award of academic credits based on transcript

review. Coordinate with the ELL director to ensure proper ELL program placement and also

to ensure that all content teachers are aware of ELL needs.

10. Ensure the evaluation process is completed in a timely manner.

Transfer Credit

Transfer credits to a high school student transferring from another state or another country are

awarded by the receiving district in accordance with L-6-3.1 of the Board of Regents Secondary

School Regulations (http://sos.ri.gov/documents/archives/regdocs/released/pdf/DESE/6433.pdf

)

L-6-3.1. Coursework requirements.

(a) LEAs shall formally adopt coursework graduation requirements that (1) apply to all

students within the LEA and (2) require successful completion of at least twenty

academic courses or the equivalent that include demonstrations of proficiency in the six

core content areas. The twenty courses must include the following: four courses of

English Language Arts, four courses of mathematics (three mathematics courses and

one math-related course), three courses of science, and three courses of history/social

studies. The additional six required courses are presumed to include, but not limited to,

world languages, the arts, physical education and health, and technology pursuant to

LEA policies and applicable state law. Designation as a content-area course, e.g.

“mathematics” or “science,” shall be an LEA decision based upon alignment to relevant

state adopted standards and, in those content areas not defined by state-adopted

standards, other recognized content standards. All courses must be of scope and rigor

sufficient to allow students to achieve the minimum level of proficiency required by

section L-6-3.0 of these regulations.

The selection and scheduling of courses shall be consistent with the needs of individual

students and, to the maximum degree possible, students’ individual learning plans

(ILPs). LEAs shall provide students with additional opportunities beyond the minimum

required in accordance with students’ individual learning plans (ILPs). LEA graduation

requirements must satisfy all curricular requirements set forth in General Laws and

applicable Board of Regents regulations.

(b) Students can meet the requirements set forth in this section through enrollment in a

state approved career and technical program, expanded learning opportunities, dual

enrollment, on-line learning, and other non-traditional academic and career-readiness

programs. Recognition of these learning opportunities as fulfilling the coursework

graduation requirements in this section is a local decision and shall be predicated on

alignment to state adopted standards and/or other relevant national and/or industry

standards.

Transfer Credit is awarded for work done outside the high school awarding the credit.

The appropriate school personnel should evaluate the transcript or other records of a transfer

student enrolling in their school. Based on the student’s transcript or other records, the district

should award the appropriate units of transfer credit towards a high school diploma.

The decision as to whether or not to award transfer credit for work done at educational institutions

other than Rhode Island registered high schools shall be based on whether the record indicates

that the work is consistent with the district’s standards and is of comparable scope and quality to

that which would have been done in the school awarding the credit.

Country

Index

Afghanistan

Albania

Antigua & Barbuda

Argentina

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belarus

Belize

Bolivia

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Brazil

Bulgaria

Cambodia

Cameroon

Canada

Chile

China

Colombia

Costa Rica

Croatia

Cuba

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

El Salvador

France

Gambia

Georgia

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Grenada

Guatemala

Guinea-Bissau

Guyana

Haiti

Honduras

Hong Kong

India

Indonesia

Israel

Italy

Ivory Coast

Jamaica

Japan

Korea, Republic of South

Liberia

Macedonia

Mexico

Nepal

Nicaragua

Nigeria

Norway

Pakistan

Panama

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Romania

Russian Federation

Sierra-Leone

Slovenia

Spain

Sri Lanka

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Lucia

Taiwan

Trinidad and Tobago

Ukraine

United Kingdom

Uzbekistan

Venezuela

Vietnam

Yemen

Zimbabwe

AFGHANISTAN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 13

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 29%

School Year

The academic year runs from April through November. Schools are closed for

the winter due to the lack of heating facilities.

AFGHANISTAN EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

1-6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Middle School / Lower

Secondary

Entrance exam (academic or

vocational)

6-8 11-13 (14)

7-9 12-14

End of compulsory education

High School / Upper

Secondary

10-12 15-17 9-12 14-18

Certificate of upper-secondary

completion

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

After completing 6

grade, students take an exam allowing them to enter either

middle school or a vocational school for 3 years. The 9

grade completes their

compulsory education. After the 9

grade, students may take an examination to enter

3 years of either an academic or vocational upper school.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Afghanistan Equivalent

Recommended US Equivalent

9-10 A Excellent 4 90%

7-8 B Good 3 80%

5-6 C Fair 2 70%

3.5-4 D Poor 0 55%

0-3 F Failure 0 50%

ALBANIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 100%

School Year

There are six half-days of school per week. Elementary (primary) runs from 8:00 AM to

noon; Secondary runs from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

ALBANIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-school

1-8

Exam*

5-6

7-14

1-8 6-14

Elementary & Middle

Secondary

9-12 15-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Students continue to vocational or academic comprehensive secondary high school

based on primary completion exam.

Tracking

There is no tracking in the elementary school level. Classes are intentionally mixed so

that students will benefit from the presence of higher academically-advantaged

students. There is voluntary tracking on the secondary school level.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Albania Equivalent

Recommended US Equivalent

Excellent 5 90%

Good 4 80%

Fair 3 70%

Failure 2 F

Failure 1 F

Passing is a grade of 3 or higher.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 15

11 years

Adult Literacy Rate: 88% (lowest in the Commonwealth Caribbean)

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters and runs from mid-September to mid-July, 5

days a week. Primary school hours are 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Secondary school hours

are 8:00 AM -1:30 PM.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

INFANT SCHOOL:

1-5 6-11

1 yea

4-5

PRIMARY:

6 years 5-11

Pass national exam at end

Intermediate/Post-

Primary

ears 12-15

6-8 11-13(14)

Must pass a national certificate

exam

Secondary High

School

2 years 16-17 9-12 14-18

To receive diploma must pass the

Caribbean Examination Council (CXC)

Secondary school exam

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Students who do not meet the standards based on the post-primary national exam will

be placed on a vocational educational track which may include cooperative work study

programs.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Antigua and Barbuda

Equivalent

Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 10 95%

A 8-9 90%

B 7 80%

C 6 70%

D 4-5 65%

E 3 55%

F 1-2 50%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, Human Development and Culture

E-mail: [email protected]

ARGENTINA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 95%

School Year

The school year begins in the first week of March and ends in the first week of December. The

winter vacation consists of two weeks in July. Summer vacation is for the two months of

December and January. Five hours of school per day is mandated. There are five periods per

day. In much of the country each school has two or three shifts due to the large population of

school-age youngsters.

ARGENTINA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-9

6-14/15

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13 (14)

Secondary*

High School

Polimodal 15-17(18)

9-12 14-18

1 year: Commercial diploma

2 years: General academic diploma

3 years: Technical studies diploma

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

There is no tracking in primary school. On the secondary level, the main classes are

the same for all the students but there is voluntary tracking. Each student can choose

between:

Bachillerato Mercantil (Commercial diploma)

Bachillerato Nacional (General studies diploma)

Bachillerato Technico (Technical studies diploma)

Grading System (Varies by School)

Argentina Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 9-10 A 95%

Distinguido 7-8 B 85%

Bueno 5-6 C 75%

Aprobado 4-4.9 D 65%

Insuficiente 0-3.9 F 55%

Aplazado 0-3.9 F 50%

Reprobado 0-3.9 F 45%

Passing is a grade of 4 or higher.

BANGLADESH

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 11

Grades 1 through 5

Adult Literacy Rate: 35%

School Year

The academic year runs from January through December for schools up to 10

grade,

and July to June for higher grades. School is generally in session for 220 days, with 5.5

days per week.

BANGLADESH EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

1-5 6-11 1-5 6-11

Secondary

6-10 11-16 6-8 11-13 (14)

Compulsory Exam

Higher Secondary

11-12 16-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

There is no tracking system up to 10

grade. In some high schools there are

arrangements for arts, science, business, agriculture, and industrial arts divisions for 9

and 10

grades. Passing the secondary certificate examination is a prerequisite for

advancing to higher secondary school.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Bangladesh Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 4.0 60%-100% 90%

B 3.0 45%-59% 80%

C 2.0 33%-44% 70%

F 0 0%-32% Below 65%

Passing is a grade of C (33%) or higher.

BARBADOS

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 16

Grades 1 through11

Adult Literacy Rate: 99%

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters and runs from mid-September to mid-July. Primary

school hours are 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM and secondary school hours are 8:00 AM

-1:30 PM, 5 days

per week.

BARBADOS SYSTEM US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

Infant school

1-5 6-11

Primary

6 years 6-11

Intermediate/Lower

Secondary

3 years 12-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Upper

Secondary/High

School

3 years 16-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Student must pass CXC (Caribbean

Examination Council secondary

school exam) in order to receive

diploma.

Tracking

The curriculum for all of the schools follows the British model. Students may choose an

academic or vocational program during the last two years of secondary school. Compulsory

education is free in all government-run schools and scholarships are provided for study in the

United Kingdom upon the passing of specialized examinations. They also have specialized

schools for the deaf, blind and mentally disabled.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Barbados Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 76-100 90%

B+ 61-75 80%

C+ 45-64 70%

D 35-44 65%

F 0-34 Below 65%

Passing is a grade of D (35%) or higher.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports E-

mail: [email protected]

www.edutech2000.gov.bb

BELARUS

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 99.8%

School Year

The school year is 39 weeks long. The school day is divided into 6 or 7 academic

periods, 45 minutes each, a lunch break of 20 minutes, and other breaks between

periods of 10 minutes each. School runs five days a week.

BELARUS EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

1-5 6-10 1-5 6-11

Middle School /

Intermediate

6-9 11-14

6-8 11-13 (14)

Certificate after 9

grade

High School /

Secondary*

10-11 15-16 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 11

grade Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

No tracking system exists. There are specialized high schools providing advanced

education in mathematics, art, music, economics, etc. There are no final exams in

elementary schools. Middle and high school students in Russia and Belarus have final

exams after senior grade only, but in Ukraine, at the end of each school year.

Grading System

Belarus Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

5 Excellent A 95%

4 Good B 85%

3 Satisfactory C 75%

Pass Poor D 65%

2 Failure F 55%

BELIZE

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 14

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 80% (UNESCO)

93% (Belize Government)

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters and runs from mid-September to mid-July.

Primary school hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and secondary school hours are

from 8:00 AM -1:30 PM for 5 days a week.

BELIZE EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

8 years

*exam

5-13 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School

4 years 14-18 9-12 14-18

(Forms I-IV) Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Students must pass the Belize National Examination* after the Primary Level is

completed in order to advance to the Secondary Level. Students must pay a nominal

tuition fee for Secondary Level education. There are two special schools for children

with mental and physical disabilities.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Belize Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

81-100 A 90%

71-80 B 80%

61-70 C 70%

50-60 D 65%

35-49 E (fail) 55%

0-34 F (fail) 50%

Passing is a grade of 50 (D) or higher.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Human Development

E-mail: [email protected]

BOLIVIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 12

Grades K through 5

Adult Literacy Rate: 78%

School Year

The school year lasts nine months. It begins in February and ends in October.

Secondary school lasts for six years, at which point a high school diploma is issued.

Night school and special sessions are offered to older students who are unable to

attend the normal session, i.e., adults who want to study. There is no age limit for a

public education.

BOLIVIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary K-5 5-11 1-5 6-11

Middle School

6-8 11-13 (14)

Secondary High

School

1-6 years

Full time

and/or

part time

12-no age limit 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Most public schools do not use tracking. Students are grouped by grade level in a

classroom, similar to a homeroom. Teachers rotate according to subject area. In more

remote areas, several grades are housed together in a classroom.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Bolivia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente 5 A 90%

Bueno 4 B 80%

Regular 3 C 70%

Deficiente 2 D 55%

Malo 1 F 50%

BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 90%

School Year

School begins each year at the beginning of September and ends in the third week of

June. Each school has its own curriculum. Many schools have two separate sessions:

morning, 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM; afternoon, 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

BOSNIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-8

5-6

7-14

1-5 6-11

Compulsory exam

Lower Secondary

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School

9-10 Voc.

9-11 Voc.

9-12 Aca.

14-16

14(15)-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Students take a compulsory exam at the end of the 8

grade, dividing students into

three groups: two-year vocational; three-year vocational; four-year academic secondary

school.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Bosnia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Odlican 5 A+ Excellent

Vrlo Doba 4 A Very Good

Dobar 3 B Good

Dovoljan 2 C Fair

Nedovoljan 1 F Failure

Passing is a grade of 2 or higher.

Additional Resources

http://www.fbihvlada.gov.ba

BRAZIL

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 14

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 81%

School Year

The school year is from March to December and is divided into two semesters. School

is conducted five days a week, from 7:00 AM to noon. High school students have some

special classes and tests on Saturday.

BRAZIL EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-6

5-6

7-12

1-5 6-11

Middle School /

Lower Secondary

7-8 13-15 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

3 years full

time

4 or 5 years

part time

15-17

15-19

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking in Brazilian schools. All classes have the same curriculum and

programs.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Brazil Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente 9-10 A

Muito bom 7-8.9 B

Regular 5-6.9 C

Insuficiente 3-4.9 D

Deficiente 0-2.9 F

Passing is a grade of 5.0 or higher.

The student must have an overall average of 5 for promotion.

BULGARIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Bulgaria has undergone major changes since 1990. One significant change is the

introduction of the privatization of education.

Adult Literacy Rate: 98%

School Year

Primary and secondary schools are in session from mid-September to the first week of

June. The high school semester extends into the first week of July. Each school has

two sessions, or shifts, per day: morning and afternoon. The morning session goes

from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM. The afternoon session goes from 1 PM to 6:30 PM. Each

class lasts 45 minutes. There is a break between classes. Schools operate five days

per week.

BULGARIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

1-8

6-12

1-5 6-11

Secondary

Vocational* 9-10

Academic** 9-12

12-14

12-15

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Gymnasium

4 14(15)-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Secondary diploma

**High School diploma

Tracking

There is no tracking during elementary and secondary school. There is voluntary

tracking during the Gymnasium. Students can choose schools offering the career they

want.

Grading System (U.S. Characters)

Bulgaria Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Otnneyet 6 Excellent A

Mhoro Ao6bp 5 Very Good A

Ao6bp 4 Good B

CpeAeH 3 Average C

Cna6 2 Fail F

Now

Fail F

3a4ntace

Pass Pass

Cambodia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Tres Bien 17-20 95% A

Bien 14-16 85% B

Assez Bien 12-13 75% C

Passable 10-11 65% D

Nul-mediocre 0-9 55% F

CAMBODIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 16

Grades 1 through 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 74%

School Year

The school year runs from the first week of September to the second or third week of

June. School is held five days per week. The year is divided into trimesters: September

to December, December to March, and March to June. Summer vacation is from mid-

June until the end of August. There are two weeks of vacation in October. Due to the

large school-age population, there are two sessions per day: 7:00 AM to noon and noon

to 5:00 PM. There are fifteen-minute breaks between classes.

CAMBODIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-6

5-6

7-12

1-5 6-11

Middle School /

Intermediate

7-10 13-16

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

11-13 17-19

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking system.

Grading System

Passing is a grade of 10 or higher.

CAMEROON

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 12

Grades 1 through 7

Adult Literacy Rate: 65%

School Year

The school year is 200 days, five days a week, Monday through Friday. English and

French educational systems operate in the country. There are three terms in the

academic year: September to December; January to April; and, April to June.

Elementary and secondary schools run from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Form 5 students

return to classes from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Form 5 students are expected to live in

boarding houses or live close to the school. Catholic schools operate a boarding system

for all their students.

CAMEROON EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of School Approximate Ages Years of School Approximate Ages

Elementary/

Primary

1-7

Compulsory

Exams

6-12 1-5 6-11

Middle School

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

Forms I-V

Compulsory

Exams

12(13)-16

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

A tracking system is in effect. Elementary school ranges from grades 1 to 7, at the end of which

pupils take the entrance examination to the secondary school. Those students above 12 years of

age who are not admitted to the government secondary schools may go to private school. Class

7 pupils in the elementary schools, as well as Form 5 students in the secondary schools, have

extension classes in the evenings to prepare them for terminal exams and entrance exams to the

next level of the educational system.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Cameroon Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 95-100 95% Excellent

A 80-94 90% Excellent

B 75-79 85% Very Good

C+ 65-74 80% Good

C 60-64 75% Fairly Good

D 50-59 65% Credit

E 40-49 65% Pass

F 0-48 55% Failure

Passing is a grade of E (40) or higher.

CANADA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5-6 to 15-17

Adult Literacy Rate: 99%

School Year

The school year is from September to June. Annualization, semesters, and trimesters all exist

depending on the province and school. The education policy is a provincial

responsibility and

the period of compulsory education varies.

CANADA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of School Approximate Ages Years of School Approximate Ages

Primary

ages 5 or 6

to 13-14

1-9 6-14

Intermediate

Secondary

3 to 5 years

Grades 10-12

Tracking

Canada does not have a federal educational system. The responsibility for education is vested

in the provinces; therefore, there are many different sets of standards. In general, high school

programs consist of two streams. The first prepares the student for university; the second

prepares the student for post-secondary education at community college or for the workplace.

There are also special programs for students unable to complete the conventional courses of

study. In some schools these decisions are

based on examinations.

GRADING SCALES

U.S. E

uivalence

Alberta Brit.Columbia Brunswick

95%

80-100 86-100 80-100

85%

65-79 73-85 70-79

75%

50-64 60-72 60-69

65%

40-49 50-59 50-59

55%(failing)

0-39 0-49 0-49

Manitoba Newfoundland Nova Scotia Ontario

4 80-100 80-100 75-100

3 70-79 70-79 66-74

2 60-69 60-69 60-65

1 50-59 50-59 50-59

0 0-49 0-49 0-49

Prince Ed Island Quebec Saskatchewan U.S. Equivalence

80-100 80-100 90-100

95%

70-79 70-79 70-89

85%

60-69 60-69 60-69

75%

50-59 50-59 50-59

65%

0-49 0-49 0-49

55%(failing)

CANADA (continued)

Additional Resources

Ministry of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

www.hrsdc.gc.ca

Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation

www.osstf.on.ca

Alberta Teachers’ Association

www.teachers.ab.ca

CHILE

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 92%

School Year

The school year runs for 38 weeks, from the beginning of March to December 21.

Schools operate on semesters or trimesters. Summer vacation is from the third week of

December to March 1. The school day consists of five classes a day, each class 40

minutes long. They also operate on two or three shifts a day, depending on the school.

School meets five days a week, 25 classes a week.

CHILE EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-primary

1-5

6-11

1-5 6-11

Middle School /

Basic Secondary

2 years

Basic

Secondary

Exam

11-13 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Higher Secondary*

2 years

Higher

Secondary

Exam

13-15

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

In the first two years of secondary school the basic classes are the same for everyone.

In the latter two years of secondary school there is voluntary tracking. Each student can

choose an area of interest to pursue.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Chile Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 7 A+ 95%

Muy Bueno 6 A 90%

Bueno 5 B 85%

Mas que regular 4 B- 75%

Regular (suficiente) 3 C 70%

Menos que regular 2 F 55%

Deficiente 1 F 50%

CHINA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15/16

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 70%

School Year

The length of the school year is roughly the same in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The fall

term runs from September to January; the spring term runs from March to July. Winter recess is

in February; summer vacation is in July and August. Elementary school students usually stay in

the same room with the same teacher(s) all day long. Students in junior and senior high schools

have to report to their homeroom for 30 minutes to one hour to study while the teacher takes

attendance. Students attend school from Monday through Saturday. Seniors must return to

school on Sunday morning to study. In elementary school the school day runs from 7:30 AM to

11:30 AM, followed by a lunch break, and then schools run from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In junior

and senior high schools the school day runs from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a lunch

break, and then school run from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

CHINA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Middle School/ Lower

Secondary often

called Normal School

3 13-15 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary often

called Normal College

3 15-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

High school students will be programmed into two groups according to their marks, grades and

test results at the beginning of the sophomore year. One group will prepare

the students to major in literature, history, library science and law. Another group will

prepare the students to major in science, mathematics and technology.

Grading System (Varies by School)

China Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excellent 9-10 A 4.0

Good 8-8.9 B 3.0

Fair 7-7.9 C 2.0

Poor 6-6.9 D 1.0

Failure 0-5.9 F 0

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education

http://www.moe.edu.cn

COLOMBIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 15

Grades 1 through 5

Adult Literacy Rate: 87%

School Year

There are 200 days of school per year over 40 weeks, but there are many school holidays.

There are two school calendars used in Colombia: Calendar A is used in most of the country.

School runs from February 1 to June 15. Vacation is from June 15 to

July 15. School continues from July 16 to November 30, and there is another vacation in

December and January. Calendar B is used in the southwest part of the country.

School runs from September 1 to December 15. There is a vacation from December 16 to

January 15, and school resumes on January 16, continuing through June 30. There is vacation

in July and August. School runs five days a week, Monday through Friday. The school day

consists of a mandated six hours. There are two sessions, each of three periods (45 minutes in

duration) with a lunch period in between. In much of the country there are two shifts due to the

large school-age population: morning shift runs from 6:50

AM to 12:40 PM and an afternoon shift from 12:50 PM to 6:40 PM.

COLOMBIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-Primary

5 years

5-6

7-11

1-5 6-11

Middle School /

Lower Secondary

Lower

Secondary-

Basic

4 years

12-15 6-9 11-14

High School / Upper

Secondary*

Upper

Secondary-

Diversified

2 years

16-17

10-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

COLOMBIA (continued)

Tracking

On the secondary level, the first four years are spent in the Basic Common Cycle, after

which comes the choice between Arts and Sciences, Vocational, Commercial or

Technical studies. These tracks are chosen according to students’ aptitudes and

abilities.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Colombia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente 9.5-10 A+ 4.0 95%

Muy Bueno 8.5-9.4 A 4.0 90%

Bueno 7.5-8.4 B 3.0 85%

Regular 6.5-7.4 C 2.0 75%

Deficiente 6.0 passing D 1.0 65%

No Aceptado 1-5.9 F 0 55%

If a student receives a grade of below 6 in three subjects, the entire school year must be

repeated.

Additional Resources

Colombian Institute for Higher Education

http://www.icfes.gov.co

COSTA RICA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 13

Grades K through 6

Adult Literacy Rate: 93%

School Year

The school year lasts nine months. It begins in March and ends in November. The

school day starts at 7:00 AM and ends at 1:30 PM, lasting approximately 6-1/2 hours,

five days a week.

COSTA RICA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

K-8 4.5-13 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-14

High School / Upper

Secondary

Liberal Arts

1-5

13-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Vocational

Technical

1-6

13-18

Tracking

Students are tracked by career area for high school. Students can either enter five years

of liberal arts in high school or enter six years of vocational training. Either track can

apply to attend university upon completion.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Costa Rica Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 95% Excellent 9-10 A 4.0

Muy Bueno 85% Good 8-8.9 B 3.0

Bueno 75% Fair 7.5-7.9 C 2.0

Suficiente 65% Poor 6.0-7.4 D 1.0

Insuficiente 55% Failure 0-5.9 F 0

CROATIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 97%

School Year

The school year is from the beginning of September to mid-June, divided into two

semesters. Students attend five days per week. Elementary school runs from 8:00 AM

to noon; secondary school runs from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Each class is 45 minutes in

duration. These are approximate times depending on the grade and on the differing

programs in 9

and 12

grades.

CROATIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

Pre-Primary

1-8

6-13(14)

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13

High School /

Secondary*

1-4 14-17 9-12 14-18

Examination to University Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking system on the elementary level. Voluntary tracking does exist in

secondary school; students may choose between academic or trade programs.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Croatia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Odlican 5 Excellent A+ 4.0 95%

Vrlo Doba 4 Very Good A 3.0 85%

Dobar 3 Good B 2.0 75%

Dovoljan 2 Fair/Passing C 0 65%

Nedovoljan 1 Failure F 0 55%

CUBA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 96%

School Year

The school year commences early in September and ends in the first half of July. On the

secondary level there are 34 weeks of study with an additional 6 to 9 weeks of non-

academic work. The year is divided into two semesters. Vacation is for six weeks in July

and August. The school day is 5

1/2

hours per day, five days per week, Monday to

Friday.

CUBA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-Primary

1-6

5-6

7-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary

7-9

Pre-University

10-12

12-15

16-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Tracking exists in the secondary upper level (grades 10-12) where polytechnic and

professional (trade) schools offer courses to under-schooled youngsters and dropouts.

Here, study is usually combined with work.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Cuba Equivalent

Recommended US

Equivalent

Sobresaliente Excellent 90-100% A 4.0 95%

Notable Good 80-89% B 3.0 85%

Aprovechado Fair 70-79% C 2.0 75%

Aprobado Poor 60-69% D 1.0 65%

Suspenso y Desaprobado Failure Below 60% F 0 55%

A grade of 60% or higher is passing.

DOMINICA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 15

Adult Literacy Rate: 96%

School Year

The school year consists of trimesters starting in mid-September to mid-July. The days

are from 8 AM to 1:30 PM, five days per week.

DOMINICA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary 7 years 5-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate 5 years 13-17 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

2 years 17-19 9-12 14-18

Student must pass the GCE

advanced exam in order to

graduate from high school

and enter college.

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

Education is free and provided by both government and religious schools, although

enrollment of eligible children in the primary age group is approximately 70%. There are

also a number of schools for the mentally and physically handicapped.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Dominica Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 9-10 90-95%

B 8 85%

C 7 75%

D 5-6 65%

E 4 55%

F 1-3 50%

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 13

Seventy percent of all students are over-aged for their grade in the Dominican Republic.

Forty-seven percent enrolled in primary schools finish the sixth grade and only nineteen

percent of these finish in six years.

Adult Literacy Rate: 83%

School Year

The school year is 196 days long. School begins on the 15

of September and ends on

the 30

of June. It is divided into trimesters. Students attend school five days a week in

shifts. There are three shifts each day:

Morning: four hours–from 8:00 AM to noon

Afternoon: four hours–from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Evening: four hours–from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

All students completing each semester by attending one of these shifts receive the same

certificate or diploma.

DOMINICAN EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

Pre-Primary

1-7

5-6

7-13(14)

1-5 6-11

Intermediate 8 14(15) 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary*

1-4 15-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

On the secondary school level (grades 9-12), tracking occurs in the last year. Students

may choose courses related to the professional interests that they plan to pursue in the

university.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Dominican Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente Excellent 90-100% A 4.0 95%

Muy Bueno Good 80-89% B 3.0 85%

Bueno Fair 70-79% C 2.0 75%

Suficiente Poor 60-69% D 0 65%

Insuficiente Failure 0-59% F 0 55%

Passing is a grade of 60% or higher.

ECUADOR

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 88%

School Year

There are ten months of school in a year. In the coastal regions, school begins in the

first week of May and runs until February, with vacation in March and April. In the

mountainous regions, school runs from September to June with vacation in July and

August. The school year is divided into trimesters. Between each trimester there are

four days of vacation. School runs five days per week, Monday through Friday. On the

secondary level there are seven periods, each 45 minutes long. There are also three

sessions: morning, afternoon and evening (only four hours).

ECUADOR EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-Primary

1-6

6-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Middle School

Basic 1-3

12-14(15) 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

Secondary Voc (2 to

3 years Advance

Voc. Diploma)

or Secondary

Academic 3

years

15-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

On the upper secondary level (9th-12th grades) tracking exists according to the student’s

career choice and abilities.

ECUADOR (continued)

Grading System (Varies by School)

Please note that there are a variety of systems so it is imperative to check with the

individual school for the passing grade.

School Classwork and Trimester examinations:

Ecuador Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente Excellent 20 A+ 4.0 95%

Muy Bueno Very Good 18-19 A 4.0 90%

Bastante Bueno Good 16-17 B 3.0 85%

Bueno Good 13-15 C 2.0 75%

Regular Passing 10-12 C- 1.0 65%

Malo Failure 0-9 F 0 55%

Final Examinations including Bachillerato examination

Ecuador Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente Excellent 10 A 4.0 90%

Muy Bueno Very Good 9 A 4.0 90%

Bastante Bueno Good 7-8 B 3.0 85%

Bueno Good 5-6 C 2.0 75%

Regular Passing 3-4 C-/D 1.0 65%

Malo Failure Below 3 F 0.0 55%

A grade of 5 or above is required for promotion.

Additional Resources

National Council of Higher Education

http://www.conesup.net

EGYPT

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 48%

School Year

The school year runs from September to June for a total of 225 school days. Students are

required to attend 90 percent of the school days. There is a two-week midyear break in addition

to the holidays. School runs from Saturday to Thursday; Friday is a holiday and there is no

school. In elementary school the day goes from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM and in preparatory school

from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM or from noon to 4:00 PM. High school runs from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

During the month of Ramadan the school day is shortened by two hours; schools start one hour

later and end one hour earlier.

EGYPT EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of School Approximate Ages Years of School Approximate Ages

Elementary/

Primary

6 years. 6-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Lower

secondary

3 years

12-14 (15) 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary*

Upper

3 years

15-17 (18)

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

Students are grouped homogeneously according to their grades and national test results.

Classes are programmed from class A (highest achieving students) to class B, C, D or E

respectively. From elementary school on, students will be separated into schools by gender. In

the first year of high school, students will choose between liberal arts or science majors. In the

senior year, the science majors will have another choice between a math and biology minor.

Students have a fixed program and are assigned to one classroom with the same group of

students for the whole year; teachers move to classrooms.

EGYPT

Grading System (Varies by School)

Egypt Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

80-100% Excellent A 4.0 95%

70-79% Good B 3.0 85%

60-69% Fair C 2.0 75%

50-59% Poor D 0 55%

0- 9% Failure F 0 50%

Passing is a grade of 60% or higher.

EL SALVADOR

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 12

Grades 1 through 6

Adult Literacy Rate: 75%

School Year

The school year begins in January and ends in October, lasting approximately nine

months. School is conducted five days a week, Monday through Friday; the school day

lasts six hours.

EL SALVADOR EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

Early Primary

Primary

6-8

9-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Upper Primary

7-9

12-14 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

Secondary

3 Years

15-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

Most schools do not have tracking. In some rural areas children of different ages will be

grouped together, similar to a one-room schoolhouse. For the most part, students stay

in their classroom and the teachers of each subject move from class to class.

Grading System (Varies by School)

El Salvador Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente Excellent 10 A+ 4.0 95%

Muy Bueno Very Good 9 A 4.0 90%

Bastante Bueno Good 8 B 3.0 80%

Bueno Good 6-7 C 2.0 75%

Regular Passing 5 C-/D 1.0 65%

Malo Failure Below 1-4 F 0.0 55%

Variations in grading practices exist from school to school. However, 5 is required for

promotion.

FRANCE

Compulsory Education: Ages: 6 to 16

Adult Literacy Rate: 99.9%

School Year

The school year is from September to June from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM for 5½ days per

week.

FRANCE EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Nursery/Pre-School

Pre-

school

Primary/Elementary

Grades:

1-2

Grades:

3-5

6-7

7-10

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

4 years 10-14 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Lycee:

Second generate 1 year

Premier and terminale 2

years

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*The high school diploma is called the Baccalaureat General or the Baccalaureat Technologique

Tracking

Teachers meet in a council for the purpose of determining the students’ abilities and

interests. They then guide the students into the courses of study that are best suited for

them. Often the council recommends repeating a year which is called redoublement.

This ensures that all students master their studies at a very high level of achievement.

Grading System (Varies by School)

France Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

16.0-20.0 Tres Bien 95%

14.0-15.9 Bien 85%

12.0-13.9 Assez Bien 75%

10.0-11.9 Passable 65%

8.0-9.9 *failing* 55%

In individual subjects, grades within the range of 8.0-9.9 are passing; therefore, care

must be taken when awarding credit and grade equivalents.

Additional Resources

Agence France

www.expatica.com

GAMBIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 8 to 16

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 30%

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters and runs from September to July. School

is conducted five days a week, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Each class is 40 minutes.

Evening schools are established for adults and run from 7:00 AM -10:00 PM.

GAMBIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

1-6 8-14 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Junior

Secondary

School 7-9

14-16 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary*

Senior

Secondary

School 10-12

GCE Diploma

16-18(19)

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

No tracking exists, even though there are technical schools. Regular courses are

offered in the grammar schools.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Gambia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A = 80-100 A+ 4.0 95%

B = 75-79 B+ 3.0 85%

C = 60-74 C+ 2.5 75%

D = 50-59 C 2.0 70%

E = 40-49 D 1.0 65%

F = 0-48 F 0 55%

Passing is a grade of E (40) or above.

GEORGIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Through Grade 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 96%

School Year

The system is presently undergoing reform. Some schools still follow the Russian

system (refer to Russian Federation in this manual).

GEORGIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

4 years 6-10 1-5 6-11

Intermediate/Lower

Secondary

4 years

End of compulsory

education

10-14 6-8 11-13 (14)

Upper

Secondary*/High

School

3 years

Completion of high

school**

15-17

9-12

Diploma after

12th grade

14-18

*Academic or Specialized Secondary Schools need 3 years

**Vocational/Technical Secondary Schools need 4 years

Tracking

Diversification occurs at the upper secondary school level where students may opt for a 3

year program of academic studies or a 4 year program of technical studies.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Georgia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

5 Priadi Excellent 90%

4 Kargi Good 80%

3 Damakmakopilebeli Satisfactory 70%

2 aradamakmakopilebeli Unsatisfactory 60%

Passing is a grade of 3 or higher. The grade of 2 is rarely shown on transcripts. A grade

of Chatvla indicates credit is given but failed to pass required exam. This would equate

to our CR (credit).

Additional Resources

www.euroeducation.net

GERMANY

Compulsory Education: Varies from grades 1 to 9 or 1 to10, depending on the state

Adult Literacy Rate: 100%

School Year

The school year is usually 180 days in length, depending on the state. The school year is

divided into three terms: April-July; September-December; January-March. There is a one month

summer vacation, usually between July and August. There are also two weeks off for the New

Year. Spring vacation comes after the annual examination. At the end of the school year there

is a two-week break before the next year begins. Primary schools usually run classes only in the

morning. Secondary schools, mostly grades 11-13, have classes both in the morning and

afternoon. Students attend classes five days a week and two Saturdays a month.

GERMANY EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/

Elementary

4 years 4-8 1-5 6-11

Lower Secondary (also

called Intermediate or

Grammar School)/

Intermediate

5 or 6 years 8-13(14)

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary (Gymnasium)

4 or 2 years 15-16(18)

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Exams are given at the end of intermediate/grammar school for admission into

specialized schools. Comprehensive exams are given throughout the secondary school.

Tracking

There is tracking during primary school and/or junior high school. There is also voluntary tracking

for high schools. Students can choose between general education or vocational high schools.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Germany Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

1 13-15 Sehr Gut Very Good A 95%

2 10-12 Gut Good B 85%

3 7-9 Befriedigend Satisfactory B-/C+ 75%

4 4-6 Ausreichend Sufficient C 70%

5 1-3 Mangelhaft Deficient D 55%

6 0 Ungenugend Failure F 50%

Passing is a C/65% with a 4 or better

Additional Resources

Accreditation Council of Germany

http://www.akkreditierungsrat.de

Federal Ministry of Education

http://www.bmbf.de

GHANA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 16

Grades 1 through 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 60%

School Year

The school year is ten months, five days per week, with trimesters from September-

December; January-April; April-June. Most schools are boarding schools. School days

usually begin at 7:30 AM and end at 2:30 PM. Evening classes start at 3:30 PM and end

at 5:00 PM.

GHANA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/

Elementary

6 years 6-11 1-5 6-11

Junior Secondary/

Intermediate

7-9(10)

3 or 4

years*

12-15(16) 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Senior

Secondary

2,3,4 years 15-19

9-12 14-18

2 years are Forms II and III

3 years are Forms I,II,III

4 years are Forms I, II, III, IV

Diploma granted after exams at

Form 3 (SS3)

Diploma after 12

grade

*A student who takes 4 years of junior secondary school begins senior secondary school

at Form II

Tracking

There is no tracking up to the tenth grade, after which students select an area of

specialty.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Ghana Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 80-100 Distinction 95%

B 70-79 Very Good 85%

C 60-69 Good 80%

D 50-59 Credit 70%

E 40-49 Pass 65%

F 0-39 Fail 55%

Passing is a grade of E (40) or higher.

GREECE

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 93%

School Year

The school year is 164 days. There are two months of summer vacation and one month

between the winter and spring semesters. School runs five days a week with six

academic periods. Each period is 45 minutes, with a five minute break between

periods.

GREECE EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

K-6 5½ -12

1-5 6-11

Intermediate 7-9 13-14

6-8 11-13 (14)

Secondary*/

High School

10-12 15-18 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking up to the tenth grade. Eleventh and twelfth grade students may

elect a major: Humanities, Sciences or Vocational. The Lyceum Academic Certificate

(Apolitirion), as well as the general level of grades in all three grades (10

, 11

and

), are requirements for entry, along with the successful passing of examinations into

the country’s establishment of Higher Education. Those who have failed their entrance

exams are entitled to try an infinite number of times to improve their grades in order to

be accepted by the school of their choice.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Greece Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excellent 18-20 A 95%

Good 14-17 B 85%

Fair 12-13 C 75%

Poor 10-11 C-/D 65%

Failure 0-9 F 55%

Passing is a grade of 10 or above.

Additional Resources

http://www.icfes.gov.co

GRENADA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to15

Attendance is not enforced

Adult Literacy Rate: 99.9%

School Year

The school year is from September to August for 5 days a week.

Primary school runs from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM and Secondary school runs from

8:00 AM - 1:30 PM.

GRENADA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary 7 years 5-12 1-5 6-11

Junior Secondary/

Intermediate

5 years 12-17 6-8 11-13(14)

Senior Secondary/

High School

2 years 17-19

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Students must pass an examination in order to be eligible for senior secondary school.

The government provides the students with scholarships that allow them to attend for

free.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Grenada Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

70-100 A 90%

50-69 B 80%

40-49 C 70%

30-39 D 65%

20-29 E 55%

0-19 F 50%

Passing is a grade of 30 (D) or higher.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education and Labor

E-mail: [email protected]

GUATEMALA

Compulsory Education: Age 7 to 14

Grades 1 through 6

NOTE: Education in many parts of the country is not free, so many students who can’t afford it

do not attend school.

Adult Literacy Rate: 55%

School Year

The school year begins the first or second week of January and finishes in the third week of

October. There are 180 school days per year. School runs five days per week, Monday

through Friday. There are five hours of class per day. Each period is 40-45 minutes. There

are 35 periods per week.

GUATEMALA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/

Elementary

Pre-Primary

1-6 end of compulsory

education

5-6

7-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

3 years 12-15

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

2 to 3 years

depending on

course of study

14-18 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

The diversified cycle of secondary school (equivalent to 10th-12th grades) offers the student

the choice between academic courses or a more vocational/technical course of study.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Guatemala Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente Excellent 81-100 A 4.0 95%

Muy bueno Good 71-80 B 3.0 85%

Bueno Fair 61-70 C 2.0 75%

Suficiente Poor 51-60 D 0 65%

Aplazado Failure 0-50 F 0 0%

Passing is 51% or higher.

To download PK-6 National Curriculum, visit:

http://www.avivara.org/aboutguatemala/educationinguatemala.html

GUINEA-BISSAU

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 13

Adult Literacy Rate: 59%

School Year

The educational systems in Guinea-Bissau are patterned on the system in France.

French is the language of instruction. Although curriculum and structure is French,

since the country’s independence, African History and Geography are now stressed.

GUINEA-BISSAU

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

6 years 7-13 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary/ High School

7 years 13-19

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Although education by law is compulsory until the age of 13, in practice few children

complete their schooling. According to UNESCO reports, approximately 40% attend

primary school and enrollment in secondary school is approximately 12%.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Guinea-Bissau Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

19-20 95%

16-18 90%

14-17 85%

12-13 75%

10-11 65%

8-9 Credit in some schools, failing in others

GUYANA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

8 years

Adult Literacy Rate: 98.6% (highest in South America)

School Year

The school year is from September to August, 5 days per week.

GUYANA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

Infant school:

1 year

1-5 6-11

Primary: 6 years 6-12

Lower Secondary/

Intermediate

4 years 12-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Upper Secondary/

High School

1 to 2 years 16-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Education is free and compulsory between the ages six and fourteen. Entrance into

secondary school is based upon the results of the Secondary School Entrance

Examination (SSEE). Students take this test at the age of eleven.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Guyana Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 90-100 95%

A 76-89 90%

B 70-75 80%

C 60-69 70%

D 59-50 65%

F 0-49 55%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education

E-mail: [email protected]

HAITI

Compulsory Education: Grade 6 in Traditional System

Grade 9 in Reform System

Primary: 6 years (Traditional), 9 years (Reform)

Secondary: 5-7 years (Traditional), 3 years (Reform)

Adult Literacy Rate: 53%

School Year

The school year runs from October to mid-July when promotional examinations are given.

Primary school lasts for six years. Students stay with the same teachers five days a week,

Monday through Friday. There are two parallel systems of education in Haiti. In the traditional

system the secondary program is offered in four streams: A– Latin and Greek; B–Latin,

languages and literature; C–mathematics and physical sciences; D–mathematics and natural

sciences. The Reform system, which is now being implemented in large cities, is similar to the

United States’ system. At present, both systems are in operation. It is also important to note

that in rural areas many students do not have opportunities for secondary education.

REFORM SYSTEM

HAITI EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

9 years

1-5 6-11

end of compulsory education

Intermediate

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary

3 years (Form III, II, I)

then exams for University

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

High school students, beginning the seventh year of study, immediately following the

completion of the primary school sequence, have an option of either entering pre-

vocational school or following an academic track. After the ninth year of school those

students who chose the academic track have another opportunity to enter vocational

training, called Second Degree Vocational Training. Young girls make up 90% of the

enrollment in the pre-vocational programs.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Haiti Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

19-20 10 Excellent 91-100% A 4.0 95%

17-18 9 Tres Bien 80-90% B 3.0 85%

15-16 8 Bien 60-79% C 2.0 75%

13-14 7 Moyen 50-59 C 2.0 70%

11-12 6 Passable 40-49% D 1.0 65%

Below 40 F 0 55%

Passing is a grade of 40% (11-12 or 6) or higher.

HONDURAS

Compulsory Education: Age 7 to 12

Grades 1 through 6

Adult Literacy Rate: 73%

School Year

The school year consists of 200 class days and runs from February to November, six

days per week, Monday through Saturday. The school year is divided into five cycles:

February-March; April-May; June-July; August-September; October-November.

Vacation takes place in December and January. On the secondary level students

normally receive 36 hours of instruction, but there are schools where the class load is

up to 44 hours per week, according to the course of study.

HONDURAS EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-Primary

1-6

5-6

7-12

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

1-3 13-15 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

1-2 or 3 16-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

Students in grades 10 through 12 may choose from among 10 tracks offered in

academic studies, business, commercial studies, science, social sciences, etc.

Grading System (Secondary Only)

Honduras Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 91-100% Excellent 1 A 4.0 95%

Muy Bueno 80-90% Good 2 B 3.0 85%

Bueno 60-79% Fair 3 C 2.0 75%

Aplazado 40-59% Poor 4 F 0 55%

Insuficiente 1-39% Failure 5 F 0 50%

Passing is a grade of 60% or higher.

HONG KONG

Compulsory Education: Age 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 90%

School Year

The length of the school year is roughly the same in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The

school year is broken up into two terms. The fall term runs from September to January;

the spring term runs from March to July. School runs six days per week, Monday

through Saturday. Seniors must return to school on Sunday morning to study. In

elementary school the school day runs from 7:30 AM -11:30 AM, followed by a lunch

break, and then more school from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Junior high school and senior

high school days run from 7:00 AM -11:30 AM, followed by a lunch break, and then more

school from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

HONG KONG EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

1-9 6-15 1-5 6-11

Intermediate/

Lower Secondary

3 (being

phased in)

6-8 11-13 (14)

End of compulsory education

High School / Upper

Secondary

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Exams Receive Certificate of

Education

Advanced

Secondary/Pre-

University

1 or 2 years

exams

Advance Placement=US

College Credit

Note: Some schools still use the British system of six years of primary school, five years

of secondary Form IV. After the high school diploma is awarded, students may opt for

Form VI in preparation for the university entrance examination.

HONG KONG (continued)

Tracking

High school students will be programmed into two groups according to their marks,

grades and test results at the beginning of the 10

year. One group will major in

literature, history, library science, law, etc. Another group will major in science,

mathematics and technology.

Grading System (Many grading systems are used; several are listed below.)

System 1 System 2

Recommended US Equivalent

Pass with Distinction A 90%

Pass with Credit B,C 80%

Pass D,E 70%

Fail F,G,H 55%

System 3 System 4 System 5

A 1 75-100%

B 2 65-74%

C 3 50-64%

D 4 40-49% (Pass)

E* 5*

F 6 failure

*Fail or Pass, depending on school

Additional Resources

Institute of International education

http://www.iiehongkong.org/hked/hkeducation.htm

INDIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

5 6-11 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

3 11-14 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Lower

Secondary

exam

15-16

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Upper Secondary

exam 1 to 2 years

completes H.S.

18-19

Pre-Professional

Certificate

1 (college level work) 18-19

INDIA

Compulsory Education: Age 6 to 14

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 48%

School Year

The academic years vary from state to state. Usually the school year starts in June and

ends nine months later in March or April. The year is divided into three terms of 15

weeks each, six days a week. The number of weeks varies widely, but the standard is

39 weeks in many regions. External exams are given at the end of class 10 and 12.

There are 220 days of school; 48 periods a week, each period being 30-40 minutes in

length. School is conducted for 5-1/2 days per week. The school day is approximately

five hours long for primary school (grades 1-5) and six hours long for higher primary (6-8

grades) and secondary (9-10 grades).

Note: Students may receive their High School diploma after the 11

grade depending on

their successful completion of their compulsory examinations.

Tracking

Curriculum at the lower secondary stage seeks to give all students the “competence to

enter life.” At the upper secondary stage the national plan calls for providing

introductory courses for college education.

Grading System (Varies by School)

India Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

First Division, Class I 60% or higher A 85%-95%

Second Division, Class II 45%-59% B 75%-84%

Pass, Class III 33%-44% C 65%-74%

Passing is a grade of 33% or higher.

Additional Resources

Directory of Indian Government Websites, Educational

http://goidirectory.nic.in/education.htm

INDONESIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15.

9 years

Adult Literacy Rate: 84%

School Year

The school year is from July to June.

INDONESIA

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary

6 years 7-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

6 years 12-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

* Secondary High School is comprised of two cycles of 3 years each with compulsory exams.

Tracking

Education is mainly under the control of the Ministry of National Education, but the

Ministry of Religious Affairs is in charge of Islamic religious schools at the primary level.

At the end of the first 3-year cycle of (general junior) secondary school, the exams

indicate the senior secondary school program students will be given.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Indonesia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

10 90%

9 80%

8 75%

7 70%

6 65%

1-5

Generally the passing grade is 6; however, in a few private schools, 5 is passing.

Additional Resources

Ministry of National Education:

www.depdiknas.go.id

ISRAEL

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to15

Adult Literacy Rate: 99.9%

School Year

The school year runs from September to June and is generally annualized.

ISRAEL EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

1-6 6-11 1-5 6-11

Lower Secondary/

Intermediate

3 12-14 6-8 11-13(14)

Upper Secondary/ High

School

15-17

9-12

Diploma after

12th grade

14-18

Tracking

Many students take college level courses in the 3

year of upper secondary school,

which is similar to our advanced placement program.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Israel Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

10 90-100% Excellent 95%

9 85-94% Very Good 85%

8 75-84% Good 80%

7 65-74% Almost Good 75%

6 55-64% Satisfactory 70%

5 45-54% Almost Satisfactory 65%

0-4 0-44% Fail 55%

Passing is a grade of 5 (45%) or higher.

ITALY

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grade 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 98.5%

School Year

The school year is from September to June.

ITALY EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

8 or 5 years

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Upper Secondary*

and Lycees/ High

School

1 to 5 years

a) 1 yr compulsory (equiv. to grade 9)

a) 2-3 years vocational

b) 3 years teacher training for pre-

school

c ) 4 years diploma de maturito

d) 5 years diploma de maturito with

state examinations

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*One year of upper secondary school is compulsory.

Tracking

After the 8

grade, students may opt for 2 to 3 vocational programs to complete their

education; however, these programs do not make them eligible to attend university.

Students who opt for a 4 or 5 year secondary program receive the equivalent of the U.S.

high school diploma. Upon completion, they are eligible for university. The 5 year

diploma is generally for students studying the classics, science, linguistics, technical

studies and business.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Italy Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

10 A+ 95%

9 A 90%

8 B 85%

7 C 80%

6 D 75%

0-5 F 50-55%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, University and Scientific Research

www.istruzione.it

E-mail: [email protected]

IVORY COAST

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 12

Adult Literacy Rate: 51%

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters, September to June, 5

days per week.

Since the Civil War in 2002 many students have had interrupted schooling, particularly

in rural

areas.

IVORY COAST EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of School Approximate Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

6 years 7-12

1-5 6-11

A) Preparatory 7-9

B) Elementary 9-10

C) Intermediate 11-12

CEPE exam

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary/ High

School*

College

Lower

secondary

4 years

12-16

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

BEPC EXAM

2-3 years

Baccalaureate

Degree

16-19

Tracking

The Ivorian education system is an adaptation of the French system; however, most

instruction encourages mental discipline of memorization and oral recitation rather than

analytical thinking or creativity. Performance on the primary school-leaving examination

determines entrance into secondary institutions. After 4 years of study in a secondary

school, students are required to pass an examination for further study in the Lycee or

college (further secondary school), after which they earn a Baccalaureate Degree.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Ivory Coast Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

17-20 14-20 95%

14-16 12-13 85%

12-13 10-11 75%

10-11 9 65%

9 0-8 55%

Check the legends; in some schools 9 is passing while in other schools it is failing.

JAMAICA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Adult Literacy Rate: 88%

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters from September to July for 5 days per week. In primary school pupils

are in large classes of 60 students, sit in long neat orderly rows

and may not speak unless called upon

JAMAICA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary

infant school:1 year

4-5

6-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary/

High School

Lower:3 years (Forms 1-3) then exam (GNAT)

Upper: 2 years (Forms 4-5, after form 5 ,

completion of HS with the passing of CXC or GCE

exam)

Post sec: 1 or 2 years (Form 6, for students who

have passed the CXC exam and are

preparing for college)

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Entrance into the Lower secondary school is on the basis of the performance on the common entrance (CE)

examination. Students will be tracked according to vocational or academic indications. At the end of the 9

grade (Form 3) all students must take the Grade Nine Assessment Test (GNAT). Promotion to the next

grade (Form 4) is based on the test results. At the end of the 10

grade (Form 4) all students must take the

Jamaica School Certification Examination (JSC). Promotion to the next grade is based on the test results.

At the end of the 11

grade (Form 5) students must take the Caribbean Examination Council Examination

(CXC). The exam is used for entry into Form 6 in preparation for college.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Jamaica Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 10 95%

1 A 8.0-9.9 90%

2 B 6.9-7.9 80%

3 C 5.0-5.9 70%

4 D 4.0-4.9 65%

5/6 E/F 1-3.9 (failing) 55/50%

Note: Many different grading scales are used; always check the report card legend or whenever possible

contact the individual school.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture

www.moec.gov.jm

JAPAN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 through 15

Grades1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 100%

School Year

School year is from April to March in an annualized system. Classes are 5 and a half to

6 days per week, generally from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

JAPAN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Yochien/Primary/

Elementary

Kindergarten

1-6

3-5

6-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High

School*

Lower: 3 years

End of compulsory ed.

Entrance exam

Upper: 3 years

completion of HS

University Prep:

1 year

12-14

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational and Academic

Tracking

Students take examinations to get into schools of their choice, beginning in pre-school

and continuing throughout the educational levels. Entrance into upper secondary, the

stage following compulsory levels, is by exam only and most charge tuition.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Japan Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

5 95%

4 85%

3 75%

2 65%

1 55%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education

www.europaworld.com

www.mext.go.jp

KOREA, REPUBLIC OF SOUTH

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 96%

School Year

The school year consists of 220 school days. The first semester runs from March

through June, followed by summer vacation in July and August. The second semester

runs from September through December, followed by a winter vacation in January and

February. School is conducted 5 and a half days a week, Saturday being a half-day.

SOUTH KOREA

EQUIVALENT

U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

1-6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

7-9 12-15 6-8 11-13 (14)

High School / Upper

Secondary*

10-12 15-18 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking system up to the tenth grade. For 11

and 12

grades, students

select a major: humanities, science or vocational. There is no grouping according to

ability, only preference of study.

Grading System (Varies by School)

South Korea Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

90-100 A Excellent 9-10 A 4.0 95%

80-89 B Good 7-8 B 3.0 85%

70-79 C Fair 5-6 C 2.0 75%

60-69 D Poor 3.5-4 D 0 70%

0-59 E Failure 0-3 F 0 65%

There are no failures in the grading system. E is the lowest grade a student can

achieve. Students never repeat a course. In rare cases, students are compelled to

repeat the entire school year.

LIBERIA

Compulsory Education: Age 7 to 12

Grades 1 through 6

Adult Literacy Rate: 40%

School Year

The school year runs from March to December and consists of two semesters. The first

semester is from March to July, with a two-week break; the second semester is from July

to December. School is conducted five days a week, Monday through Friday. Day

schools run from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM with a 30-minute break. Night session with full

programs run from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM. The night schools are designed to

accommodate adults and workers.

LIBERIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

1-6 7(8)-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

7-9 13-15 6-8 11-13(14)

High School / Upper

Secondary*

10-12 15-18 9-12 14-18

GCE diploma Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

There is no tracking system. Every child takes general courses in the primary schools.

Secondary schools are organized into two phases: junior secondary school (grades 7-9)

and senior secondary school (grades 10-12).

Grading System (Varies by School)

Liberia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

90-100% Excellent 9-10 A 4.0 95%

80-89% Good 7-8 B 3.0 85%

73-79% Fair 5-6 C 2.0 75%

70-72% Sufficient 3.5-4 D 0 65%

0-69% Poor 0-3 F 0 55%

MACEDONIA

Compulsory Education: Age 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 89%

School Year

The school year begins in September and lasts to mid-June; it is divided into two

semesters. Students attend five days a week. In elementary school the day runs from

7:30 AM to 1:00 PM; the secondary school day runs from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM.

MACEDONIA EQUIVALENT U.S. EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary

Pre-Primary

1-8

5-6

7-14

1-5 6-11

Completion of Compulsory

education

Intermediate

6-8 11-13 (14)

High School /

Secondary*

1-3

Vocational

Diploma

1-4

15-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

(entrance exam, academic

diploma)

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive. Students must pass an entrance exam in

order to attend the academic secondary school.

Tracking

No tracking system exists on the primary level. There is voluntary tracking during

secondary school–students may choose between an academic or trade program. Those

choosing academic tracks must pass entrance examinations.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Macedonia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

5 OtnNyho Excellent 95%

4 MhoroAobpe Very Good 85%

3 Aobpe Good 75%

2 3aAoBonNtenHo Fair 65%

1 be3ycnewHo Insufficient 55%

Additional Resources Euroeducation

http://www.euroeducation.net/prof/macenco.htm

University of Skopje http://www.ukim.edu.mk

MEXICO

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 92%

School Year

The school year runs from September to mid-June. School is Monday through Friday.

Saturday classes are optional for both secondary school students and prep students.

MEXICO EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

6 years 6-12

1-5 6-11

End of compulsory

education

Lower Secondary/

Intermediate

3 years 12-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Upper Secondary/ High

School

2 to 3 years 15-18

9-12 14-18

High School Degree after

obtaining an avg. of 8

(80%) or better

Diploma after 12

grade

4 years

(HS plus

teaching

degree)

15-19

Tracking

Tracking does not normally occur until the first year of preparatory school, where a

student may select a course of study, e.g., medicine, science, humanities. Selection of

a career field of study does take place during the first year of preparatory school. After

two years, the student is ready for admission to the university. A third optional year is

for those students whose grades are below an 8 (or B in U.S. terms).

MEXICO (continued)

Grading System (Varies by Schools)

Mexico Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Two t

pes generally used:

Six Point Scale

10 Excelente 95%

9-9.9 Muy Bien 90%

8-8.9 Bien 80%

7-7.9 Regular 75%

6-6.9 Suficiente/pass 65%

0-5.9 No Suficiente 50%

Five Point Scale

10 Excelente 95%

9-9.9 Muy Bien 90%

8-8.9 Bien 80%

7-7.9 Suficiente 70%

0-6.9 No Suficiente 50%

Additional Resources Secretary of Public Education

http://www.sep.gob.mx

NEPAL

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 44%

School Year

The school year is year-round.

NEPAL EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

5 years 6-10 1-5 6-11

Lower Secondary/

Intermediate

3 years 11-13 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Upper

2 years

14-15

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Highe

2 years

16-17

Tracking

Free primary education is available for ages 6 to 11 with approximately only 80% of

eligible students attending, mostly boys. Traditional schools (pathshalas) provide a

classical education emphasizing languages. A national curriculum is slowly expanding

into all schools and replacing the traditional school. Gompas along the northern border

train boys and men to become Buddhist religious leaders. Less than 50% of students

attend school past the primary level.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Nepal Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Division I 85-100 90%

Division II 75-84 80%

Division III 60-74 70%

Failing 45-59 65%

Below 45 failing

Note: Two types of grading systems seem to exist. Check the legends for individual

school differences.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education and Sports

www.moe.gov.np

NICARAGUA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 16

Grades 1 to 11

Adult Literacy Rate: 74%

School Year

The school year is 187 days, consisting of two semesters and running from mid-

February to July and August to November, with a vacation of 15 days at the end of July.

NICARAGUA

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximat

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-6

5-6

7-12

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Secondary

Basic:

13-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Secondary

Diversified:

1-2

16-17

9-12

Diploma

after 12

grade

14-18

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

In the last two years of secondary school, students move into the diversified cycle. The

three tracks available are Academic (general studies), Normal (teacher education) and

Technical. Each track enables a student to enter the university.

Grading Systems (Varies by Schools)

Nicaragua Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 9.51-10 A 95%

Muy Bueno 8.51-9.50 B 85%

Bueno 7.51-8.50 C 75%

Regular 6.51-7.50 D 65%

Deficiente Below 6.51 F 55%

NIGERIA

Compulsory Education: None

Adult Literacy Rate: 42%

School Year

The length of the school year is about 220 days divided into trimesters. Each term ends

with an exam while an additional final exam is given at the end of the third term. The

school day is about 6½ hours with a recess period of about one hour. School generally

starts at 8:00 AM and ends at 2:30 PM. There are usually extension periods for the

seniors for the preparation of their final National Exam.

NIGERIA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

e-p

imary

Primary

1-6(7)

3-5

6-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Junior

School

3 years

12-14 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Senior

School

3 years

15-17(18) 9-12 14-18

GCE diploma with an

average of 6 or better on

the National Exams

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

The junior secondary school is both pre-vocational and academic in nature. The senior

secondary schools are comprehensive with a core curriculum which every pupil must

take in addition to his or her specialties.

Grading System (Varies by School)

West African School Certificate Recommended US Equivalent

1 A+ 95%

2 A 90%

3 B 85%

4-6 C 75%

7-8 D (Failure for GCE) 65%

9 F 55%

*GCE=General Certificate of Education

Additional Resources

Council for Nigerian Higher Education

http://www.cnhe.org

NORWAY

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 16

Adult Literacy Rate: 100%

School Year

The school year runs from September to June.

NORWAY EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of School Approximate Ages Years of School Approximate Ages

Elementary/

Lower (barnetrinnet)

Kindergarten

1-4

5 years old

6-10

Kindergarten

1-6

5 years old

6-11

Intermediate

(Mellontrinnet)

(Ungdomstrinnet)

0-13

13-16

6-8 11-13(14)

Gymnasium/High School 1-3 years

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

After 10 years of compulsory education, students may choose from a variety of options for

secondary school:

a) vocational 1 year- completes high school education

b) academic 3 years- completes high school education and grants access to university

c) vocational 3 years- completes high school education and qualifies for

vocational trades and university.

In addition to the regular educational system, there also exist Folk High Schools to provide

students with personal growth and development rather than academic. These are associated

with the Scandinavian tradition of public enlightenment.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Norway Equivalent Beginning in 2002-2003

Recommended US equivalent

A A

B B

C B-

D C+

E C

F (failing) F

Prior to 2002-2003

1.0-1.5 A+

1.6-2.5 A

2.6-3.2 B+

3.3-4.0 C+

Passing is a grade of 4.0 or higher.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education of Norway

http://www.odin.dep.no

National Academic Info of Norway

http://www.internationalcomparisons.org.uk/html/Norway/countryfile.htm

PAKISTAN

Compulsory Education: None

Adult Literacy Rate: 26%

School Year

The length of the school year is 220 days: January to December up to the 10

grade,

July to June beyond the 10

grade. Education is not compulsory, though it is free,

recommended and encouraged. A new law will soon make it compulsory. The length of

the school day is 5 to 6 hours long.

PAKISTAN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

K-5 5-10(12) K-5 5-11

Intermediate

Lower Secondary

6-10

11-15(17)

6-8 11-13(14)

Completion certificate

High School*

Higher secondary 16-17(19) 9-12 14-18

ear for certificate.

Diploma after 12

grade

Highest Secondary

2 years

Secondary school certifica

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

Grouping in Humanities, Science and Business starts from the ninth grade in some

schools only. However, there’s no tracking in general up to 10

grade. Tracking starts

from 11

grade. Students choose their preference rather than being placed in school.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Pakistan Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

School Grading

Excellent 79-100 A+

Very Good 60-79% A

Good 50-59% B

Average 40-49% C

Passable 33-39% C-

Failure 0-32% F

External Examination and Post Secondary (grades 11 and 12)

First Division 60-100% A 95%

Second Division 45-59% B 85%

Third Division 33-44% C 75%

A grade of 33 is passing

PANAMA

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 11

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 88%

School Year

The school year runs from April until mid-December. In some schools the year is

divided into four semesters, in others into trimesters. There has been a move to unify

the system between the public and private schools. The vacation period is from mid-

December to the end of March (the dry season) with an additional two weeks of

vacation in August. The school day normally runs from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Each

class is 45 minutes long with 7 class periods per day.

PANAMA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-6

6-11

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Secondary

cycle)

1-3

12-14 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Secondary

cycle)

4-6

(3 years)

15-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

During the last three years of secondary school (grades 10-12) students are in the

diversified cycle. They can choose between six tracks: academic, commercial,

industrial, agricultural, normal and vocational.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Panama Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 5 1 10 91-100% A 95%

Bueno 4 1 8-9 81-90% B 85%

Regular 3 3 6-7 71-80% C 75%

61-70% D 65%

Malo or Fracasado 1,2 4,5 0-5 0-60% F 55%

PERU

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 16

Grades K through 11

Adult Literacy Rate: 89%

School Year

The school year goes from early April to mid-December with 4 terms each year. There

are two sessions each day: mornings run from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and afternoons run

from 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

PERU EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

K-6 5-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

1-5 12-17 9-12 14-18

Exam

(see tracking info below)

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

The public schools are becoming co-educational. Students who have been left back are

placed in a special class apart from the main track. There is an evening track for

students over 15 years of age. On the upper secondary level (last two years of

secondary school) there are separate tracks for students who take general education

and are university-bound and those who are looking to attain marketable skills and

intend to enter the work force after high school.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Peru Equivalent

Recommended US Equivalent

Excelente 16-20 90%

Muy Bueno 14-15 80%

Bueno 13-13.5 70%

Aprobado 11-12 55%

Aplazado,Malo or Reprobado 0-10 50%

Passing is a grade of 13 or higher.

PHILIPPINES

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Grades 1 through 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 89%

School Year

The school year lasts ten months, starting the second or third week of June, and

ending the last week of March or first week of April. The school day is from 7:30 AM to

4:30 PM. Each class lasts 45 minutes. During the lunch break most of the students go

home. There are five school days per week.

PHILIPPINES EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

Pre-Primary

Primary 1-6

5-6

7-12

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary / High

School*

4 13-16

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

High school diploma awarded at

completion of compulsory

education.

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

There is no tracking on the elementary school level. Students with higher grades in

elementary school have the option to go to a specialized Science and Arts high

school. The majority of high school students follow the regular academic track. There

are also specialized trade schools available. Diplomas are awarded at the end of

secondary school and students can then enter the university level.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Philippines Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

1.0-1.5 91-100% 95%

1.75-2.25 82-90% 85%

2.5-3.0 75-81% 75%

3.25-5.0(failing) Below 75% 55%

1 is the highest grade, 3.0 is passing. Below 75% is failing.

POLAND

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 through 14

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 99%

School Year

There are 180 school days in two semesters from September to January and February

to June. Due to overcrowding, students attend either morning or afternoon sessions,

five days per week.

POLAND EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

1-8 6-14 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

9-12 or 9-13

for advanced

diploma

14-18(19)

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*diploma after 12(13) grade*

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

There is a selection done by exams and grades for students entering high schools and

colleges. There is no grouping according to ability, only preference of study. In

academic high schools students select a major: Humanities, Science or Vocational.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Poland System Recommended US Equivalent

Bardso Dobry Very Good A 95%

Dobry Good B 85%

Dostateisny Satisfactory C 75%

Nie Dostateisny Unsatisfactory F 55%

ROMANIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 15

Grades 1 through 8

Adult Literacy Rate: 95%

School Year

The school year runs from October thru July, in trimesters. Primary schools are 4 hours

a day, lower secondary schools are 5 to 6 hours a day and high schools are 6 to 7

hours

a day, for 5 days a week.

ROMANIA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

Pre-primary

1-4

5-6

7-10

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

Lower secondary

gymnasium 5-8

11-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Upper secondary

1-4

15-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Diploma of Bacalaureat or

Certificate of Absolvire a Liceuli

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

Tracking is only available to gifted students on the elementary level. Voluntary tracking

is available to high school students who choose academic, vocational or trade curricula.

Both high school completion diplomas (Bacalaureat or Absolvire a Liceuli) are

equivalent to the United States high school diploma.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Romania Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excellent 9-10 A 95%

Good 7-8 B 85%

Satisfactory 5-6 C 75%

Failing below 5 F 55%

Additional Resources

Http://www.naric.org.uk/home.html

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 16

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 98%

School Year

The school year runs from September through June

RUSSIAN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

1-6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

3 years 12-15

6-8 11-13(14)

Certificate after 9

grade

Secondary High School*

2 to 3 years 15-17 9-12 14-18

yr of incomplete

secondary education. Year

is equivalent to 1 year of

college in US.

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

No tracking system exists. There are high schools providing advanced education in

Math, Art, Music, Economics, etc. There are no final exams in Elementary schools.

Middle and high school students in Russia and Belarus have final exams after senior

grade only, but in Ukraine at the end of each school year.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Russian Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

otnNuho Excellent 5 A 95%

Xopowo Good 4 B 85%

YaoBnetBopntenbHo Satisfactory 3 C 75%

3auet/3auteHo Pass

65%

nnoxo/heyaoBnetBopNtenHo Unsatisfactory 2 F 55%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation

http://www.ed.gov.ru

Russian Ed Institutions database

http://db.informika.ru/ai

SIERRA-LEONE

Compulsory Education: None

Adult Literacy Rate: 21%

School Year

The length of school year is 200 school days. There are three terms in the school year:

September - December; January - April; and May - June. School starts at 8:00 AM and

ends at 2:00 PM. Evening classes are also held between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

SIERRA-LEONE

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary

1-6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Junior

Secondary/

Intermediate

Forms 1,2,3 13-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Senior

Secondary/

High School*

Forms 4,5,6, 16-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

There is no tracking system but there are special vocational schools.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Sierra-Leone Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 80-100 Distinction 95%

B 70-79 Very Good 85%

C 60-69 Good 75%

D 50-59 Credit 70%

E 40-49 Pass 65%

F 0-39 Fail 55%

SLOVENIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 14

Grades 1 through 8/9

Laws are attempting to raise the compulsory education age to 15 and to grade 9. The

Slovenian educational system is continuing to evolve.

Adult Literacy Rate: 99%

School Year

The school year runs from October to June. The year consists of two semesters.

SLOVENIA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

Pre-primary

1-8

5-6

7-14

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

1-4 15-18 9-12 14-18

Some specialized

programs require five

years

Exam

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

There is no tracking on the primary level except for gifted students. There is voluntary

tracking on the secondary level for vocational studies, trades, and the 5-year advanced

high school program.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Slovenia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Odiicno/Zelo uspesno 5 A

Pravdobro/upesno 4 A

Dobro/upesno 3 B

Zadostno/manjuspesno 2 C

Nezadostno 1 F

SPAIN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 16

Adult Literacy Rate: 97%

School Year

Usually the academic year runs from the 1

of September to the end of June. The daily

schedule runs for five hours, usually three hours in the morning and two hours in the

afternoon. Each class lasts anywhere from 50 minutes to one hour, five days per week.

SPAIN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary

6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Lower

Secondary/

Intermediate

4 12-15

6-8 11-13(14)

Bachellerato de Grado Diploma

Upper

Secondary/

High School*

Pre-Univ 1 15 9-12 14-18

Bachellerato de Grado

Superior (U.S. 11

grade--

equals high school diploma)

Diploma after 12

grade Colegio 2 16-17

Bachellerato Unificado

(U.S. 11 & 12 grade or grade 12

& 13–also equals U.S. high

school diploma)

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

Tracking may take place at the upper secondary level. Students may opt for a 1, 2, or 3

year upper secondary option, depending on their post-secondary plans. These studies

are very rigorous in their specific fields of study. The curriculum does not equate well to

the United States’ system.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Spain Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Sobresaliente 8.5-10 A 90%

Notable 7.0-8.49 B 80%

Aprobado 5.0-6.99 C 70%

Suspenso Below 5.0 F 55%

SRI LANKA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 15

Grades 1 through 10

Adult Literacy Rate: 87%

School Year

Schools are open 190 days a year, 5 days per week. The school year is divided into

trimesters from October-December, January-March and April-July. In some urban

schools there are morning and afternoon sessions, reducing the time spent on

instruction.

SRI LANKA

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

1-5 5-10 1-5 6-11

Secondary/Intermediate

6-10

Exam

11-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Advanced

Secondary/ High

School

2 years entry by exam 9-12 14-18

Exam to receive general

certificate of advanced

education

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

At the primary stage (1-5) and at the secondary stage (grades 6-10) students’ progress

is monitored by the school. At the end of the compulsory cycle (usually at the age of

15), qualified students may take the General Certificate of Education-Ordinary-Level

(GCEO Level) examination and may study for two more years and take the General

Certificate of Advanced Education Level (GCEA-level) examination prepared and

administered by the Commissioner of Examinations under the Ministry of Education.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Sri Lanka Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

4 95%

3 85%

2 75%

1 (fail) 55%(fail)

0 (fail) 50%(fail)

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Compulsory Education: 7 years

Ages 5 to12 (not enforced and low attendance is reported)

Adult Literacy Rate: 85%

School Year

The school year is in trimesters, from mid-September to mid-July. Primary school hours

are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and Secondary school hours are from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM;

both are for 5 days per week. 76% of eligible students attend primary school and

24%

attend secondary schools. Many of the students receive interrupted education.

ST. VINCENT AND THE

GRENADINES

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary

7 years

Exam

5-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School*

Stage I:

5 years

12-16

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Stage II:

2 years

6-18

Tracking

At the end of primary school, all students must pass the Primary-School Learning

Certificate Examination and/or the Common Entrance Examination before moving to

the next level of schooling. Most secondary schools are run by religious organizations.

Government schools for children with special needs serve handicapped students

Grading System (Varies by School)

St. Vincent and the

Grenadines Equivalent

Recommended US Equivalent

A+ 9.5-10 95%

A 7.5-9.4 90%

B 6-7.4 80%

C 5-5.9 70%

D 4-4.9 65%

E/F (failing) 0-3.9 55/50%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports

E-mail: [email protected]

ST. LUCIA

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 15

10 years

Adult Literacy Rate: 77%

School Year

The school year runs in trimesters, which are from mid-September to mid-July. Primary

school hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM and secondary school hours are from 8:00

AM to 2:00 PM, all for 5 days per week.

ST. LUCIA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Elementary/

Primary Infant School

Exam

5-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate/Junior

Secondary

Exam

12-15 6-8 11-13(14)

Senior Secondary/ High

School

2 15-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Promotion from one grade to the next is automatic if students meet minimum

requirements. After 7 years of school, the student must take the common entrance

exam in order to determine placement in secondary school. After the completion of the

last year of junior secondary school, the student must take the common Middle School

Examination. For some, this is the end of their formal education. Others are allowed to

continue their education for two more years, thus earning a diploma of completion.

Grading System (Varies by School)

St. Lucia Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 8-10 95%

B 6.6-7.9 85%

C 4.5-6.5 75%

D 3.5-4.4 65%

E/F (failing) 0-3.5 55%

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education, Human Resource Development, Youth and Sports

E-mail: [email protected]

TAIWAN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 90%

School Year

The length of the school year is roughly the same in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The

fall term is from September to January and the spring term is from March to July.

Students attend school from Monday through Saturday. Seniors must return to school

on Sunday morning to study. In elementary school, the length of the school day is from

7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. In junior high school and high school the length of the day is from

7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There are 6 days per week of school.

TAIWAN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years o

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary/Elementary

6 6-12 1-5 6-11

Intermediate/Junior

High/Lower

Secondary

3 12-14

6-8 11-13(14)

Lower high school

certificate Upper high

school (upper secondary)

entrance exams

Upper

Secondary/

High School*

3 14-17 9-12 14-18

Exam

Senior High School

graduation certificate

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive.

Tracking

Upper secondary school students will be programmed into two groups according to their

marks, grades and test results at the beginning of the 10

year. One group will prepare

the students majoring in the Humanities. Another group will prepare the students

majoring in Sciences.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Taiwan Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

80-100% A 95%

70-79% B 85%

60-69% C 75%

50-59% D fail 55%

below 50% F fail 50%

Passing is a grade of 60% (C) or higher. Some private schools differ; always check

secondary school transcripts legends.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education of Taiwan

http://www.moe.gov.tw

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to12

Grades 1 through 6.

Adult Literacy Rate: 98%

School Year

The school year is divided into trimesters, from August to May, 5 days per week. Many schools

are administered jointly by the state and religious bodies so schools are closed for many

holidays. There are two types of secondary education. The traditional system consists of 5 years

of secondary school while the new system provides 3 years of junior secondary school and 2

years of senior secondary school. Five years of study in either system qualifies the student to sit

for the National Exam or the CXC exam. Students must pass one of these exams to be awarded

their high school diploma. The passing of the CXC is needed to enter pre-university level.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

7 years

1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High

School

Pre-University

a)junior: 3 years

Forms 1,2,3

b)senior:2 years

Forms 4,5

National exam or CXC*

2 years

Form 6

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

*A national examination, The Caribbean Examinations Council of Secondary Education

Certificate (CXC), administered by the British Examining Board, is given at the end of

secondary school and is needed to obtain a diploma and move into the pre-university level.

Tracking

At the end of each stage of schooling there is an examination required for promotion to the next

level. Many students, therefore, end their education after 6

grade, which is the end of

compulsory education.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Trinidad and Tobago Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

1 90%

2 85%

3 80%

4 75%

5 70%

6-fail

7-fail

Note: In some schools a grade of 40% or lower is failing.

UKRAINE

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Grades 1 to 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 98%

School Year

The school year is 39 weeks, from September to June.

UKRAINE EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

1-6 6-11 1-5 6-11

Intermediate/Lower

Secondary

7-9 11-14

6-8 11-13(14)

Certificate after 9

grade

Upper Secondary/High

School*

2 to 3 15-16(17) 9-12 14-18

Diploma after 2 years.

Advanced academic

diploma after 3 years.

Diploma after 12

grade

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

No tracking system exists. There are high schools providing advanced education in

Math, Art, Music and Economics. There are no final exams in elementary schools.

Middle and high school students in Russia and Belarus have final exams after senior

grade only, but in Ukraine, at the end of each school year.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Ukraine Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

Excellent 5 10-12 95%

Good 4 7-9 85%

Satisfactory 3 4-6 75%

Unsatisfactory 2 1-3 55%

3apaxoBaho= Pass

UNITED KINGDOM

Compulsory Education: Ages 5 to 16

Through grade 11

Adult Literacy Rate: 99.9%

School Year

The school year runs from October to July.

UNITED KINGDOM EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Nursery

Primary

6 years

5 K-5 5-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School

Pre-University

Lower:3 years, Forms 1,2,3

Upper:2 years, Forms 4,5

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Completion of HS after

attendance of 11 years Certificate of

Secondary Education

May be admitted to pre-

university level based on

passing the National

Examinations

Pre-univ: 2 years, Form 6

Note: There is no official method of equating the British and American systems. However, it is generally

accepted that completion of Form 5, or 5GCSE exam, is equivalent to a United States high school diploma.

Tracking

Officially, no tracking system exists. However, based upon student interests and teacher

evaluation, students may select academic or vocational training programs.

Grading System (Varies by School)

United Kingdom Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

A 95% A+

B 90% A

C 80% B

D 75% C+

E 70% C

F 55% F

G 50% F

Note: The American concept of school reports or transcripts is not used. Schools in the United Kingdom

base promotion and achievement on standardized national examinations.

Additional Resources

Department for Education and Skills

www.dfes.gov.uk

E-mail: [email protected]

UZBEKISTAN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Grades 1 through 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 99%

School Year

The school year runs from September to June. Uzbekistan is in the process of

educational reform. Some schools still use the Russian system (refer to Russian

Federation in this manual). In addition, Uzbekistan is changing its alphabet from Cyrillic

into Latin.

UZBEKISTAN

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary 4 years 1-4 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School

A) general secondary

B) specialized secondary

) 5 yea

s 5-9 9-12 14-18

B) 2 years

vocational OR

3 years

academic

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Students may enter either a vocational (2 years) or academic (3 years) upper secondary

program. Both lead to a high school completion certificate.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Uzbekistan Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

5 Excellent 90%

4 Good 80%

3 Satisfactory 70%

2 Unsatisfactory 55%

1 Unsatisfactory 50%

Passing is a grade of 3 or higher. Grades of 2 or 1 are rarely shown on transcripts. A

pass mark is issued when an exam was not taken but all course requisites were met.

This can be equated to a CR (credit) in our system.

Additional Resources

Education Level in Uzbekistan

http://www.bibl.u-szeged.hu/oseas/uzbek.html

VENEZUELA

Compulsory Education: Ages 7 to 12

Grades 1 through 6

Adult Literacy Rate: 92%

School Year

Some schools are year-round, others are from 6 to 10 months. Usually schools operate

on semesters or trimesters, ending each one with an exam. About 50% of the schools

are private and can pick their own schedule. Classes are from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

Each class lasts about 45 minutes.

VENEZUELA EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary

Pre-primary

1-6

5-6

6(7)-12

1-5 6-11

Lower or Basic

Secondary/

Intermediate

3 years 13-15

6-8 11-13(14)

Certificado de educacion

primaria

Secondary High School*

Upper-

2years

16-17

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Certificado de educacion

secundaria (Equivalent to US

HS diploma)

diversified Secondary

1 year

Bachiller ciclo diversificado.

*Vocational or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

All public schools in Venezuela are co-educational. On the secondary level there are

three voluntary tracks: general (grades 10-11), professional (grades 10-12) and

technical (grades 10-11).

Grading System (Varies by School)

Venezuela Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

16-20 Sobresaliente A 90-95%

14-15 Distinguido B 80-85%

10-13 Bueno C 70-75%

1-9 Aplazado F(fail) 50%

Passing is a grade of 10 (C) or higher.

VIETNAM

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 14

Completion of grade 9

Adult Literacy Rate: 88%

School Year

The school year runs for nine months, from September through May, six days a week,

Monday through Saturday. The overall attendance in all schools is excellent, hovering

consistently around 98%. Absenteeism and truancy are practically nonexistent.

VIETNAM EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Elementary/Primary/ Level I

5 years 6-12

1-5 6-11

Certificate of Lower Level

Completion

Intermediate/Level II

4 years 12-15

6-8 11-13(14)

Diploma of Completion of

Lower/Pre Secondary School

Secondary High School/

Level III*

3 years 15-18(19) 9-12 14-18

Specialized Secondary Upper

School Diploma

Diploma after 12

grade

*Technical or Academic Comprehensive

Tracking

Schools provide a high achievement class in the sciences and math at the third level

(10

to 12

grade).

Grading System (Varies by School)

Vietnam Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

8-10 Excellent A

7-7.5 Very good B

6-6.5 Good B-

5-5.5 Average C

below 5 Below Avg. Failure

Passing is a grade of 5 or higher.

YEMEN

Compulsory Education: Ages 6 to 15

Compulsory education is not enforced

Adult Literacy Rate: 40%

School Year

The school year is year-round with numerous holidays, dependent upon the Islamic

Lunar calendar.

YEMEN EQUIVALENT US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Years of

School

pproximate

Ages

Primary 9 years 6-15 1-5 6-11

Intermediate

6-8 11-13(14)

Secondary High School

Military

3 years

2 years

16-18

9-12 14-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Compulsory for males

The education system is based on Islamic Law.

Grading System (Varies by School)

Yemen Equivalent Recommended US Equivalent

90-100 1 A 95%

80-89% 2 B 85%

65-79% 3 C 75%

50-64% 4/5 D/fail 65%

Passing is a grade of 50% or higher.

ZIMBABWE

Compulsory Education: Grades 1 to 5

Adult Literacy Rate: 76% (UNESCO)

90% (Zimbabwe government estimates)

School Year

The school year runs from January to December, with three-month terms broken up by

one-month vacations after each term. Due to a lack of funding, many primary schools

are on double sessions, with students attending 4 hours per day.

ZIMBABWE

EQUIVALENT

US EQUIVALENT

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Years of

School

Approximate

Ages

Primary 7 6-12 1-5 6-11

Junior Certification

Forms I and II

2 13-14

6-8 11-13(14)

Lower high school certificate

Upper high school (upper

secondary) entrance exams

O Level (Forms III and IV)

A Level (Forms V and VI)

15-16

17-19

9-10

11-12

14-16

17-18

Diploma after 12

grade

Tracking

Huge discrepancies exist between rural and urban, private, boarding and public schools.

“Group A” schools are more rigorous academically and have greater resources. In

Group A schools, students study English beginning in the first grade; in other schools,

the study of English begins in the 4

grade. Placement into primary schools is based

upon ability to pay.

Placement into secondary schools is based on the grades earned on the four required

primary school national examinations, as well as the ability to pay. Based on the Form I

and Form II reports, students are assigned to courses and tracked classes for their O

Level programs. Only students who receive sufficient scores on their CSE (Forms III and

IV) exams are accepted into A Level programs to study science, business or the arts.

Most students end their formal education at the end of Form IV.

ZIMBABWE (continued)

Grading System

Zimbabwe National

Exam Grades

Recommended US Equivalent

A 90%

B 80%

C 70%

Below C is failing 55%

Passing is a grade of 60% (C) or higher. Some private schools differ; always check

secondary school transcripts legends.

It is important to note that secondary schools do not usually produce transcripts for their

students. Students receive informal, handwritten school reports twice a year. Also,

teachers often downgrade all student reports the term before exams as a motivator for

them to work harder. The O and A Level certificates are considered the official academic

qualifications, as opposed to a school-generated report. The exam results are certified

and stamped by the Head Master, the Minister of Education or the United States

Embassy.

SECTION III

References and Resources

References

included throughout this manual are intended to be those which are readily

available. Internet and agency references were all available at the time of publications;

however, these references may change.

State resources for additional assistance regarding newly

enrollin

students from forei

n countries

Agency Contact Information

International Institute

Rhode Island

645 Elmwood Ave.,

Providence, RI 02907

401-461-5940

University of Rhode

Island, Office of

International Students &

Scholars

University of Rhode Island • Office of International Students &

Scholars • International Center, 37 Lower College Road; Kingston,

Rhode Island, 02881

International Student

Services

Johnson & Wales

University

Student Services Center

274 Pine Street

Providence, RI 02903

phone: 401-598-4669

http://www.jwu.edu/content.aspx?id=49721

Brown University Office of

International Student &

Scholar Services

J. Walter Wilson, Suite 510

69 Brown Street, Box 1906

Providence, RI 02912

phone 401.863.2427

fax 401-863-7543

[email protected]

Rhode Island College

International Student

Office

Rhode Island College Faculty Center 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue

Providence, RI 02908

(401) 456-8649

http://www.ric.edu/iss/

Roger Williams University

International Student

Services

Intercultural Center Maple Hall, Roger Williams University, One Old

Ferry Rd., Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 254-3121

http://www.rwu.edu/campus-life/gender-culture/iss/prospective-new-

students

Providence College

International Students

and Scholars

Center for International Studies, Harkins Hall, 2

Floor, 1

Cunningham Square, Providence, RI 02918

http://www.providence.edu/cis/International-

Students/Pages/Incoming-International-Students.aspx

Consulates and Embassies Located in

New York City and/or

Washington D.C.

Afghanistan

Embassy of the Republic of Afghanistan

2341 Wyoming Ave., NW

Washington DC 20008

Telephone: (202) 234-3770

Consulate General of the Republic of

Afghanistan

360 Lexington Avenue, 11

floor

New York, NY 10017

212-972-2276

Albania

The Republic of Albania Embassy

2100 S. Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-223-4942

Antigua

& Barbuda

Australia

Australian Embassy

1601 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.

Washington, DC 20036-2273

202-797-3000

Fax: 202-797-3168

Australian Consulate General

150 East 42

St., 34

floor

New York, NY 10017

212-351-6500

Austria

Austrian Embassy

3524 International Court

Washington D.C. 20008-3035

202-895-6750

Austrian Consulate General

Antigua and Barbuda Embassy

31 East 69 St.

3216 New Mexico Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20016

202-362-5122

Argentina

Embassy of the Argentine Republic

1600 New Hampshire Avenue, NW,

Washington DC 20009

202-238-6400

Consulate General of Argentina

12 West 56

Street

New York, NY 10019

212-603-0400

New York, NY 10021

212-737-6400

Austrian National Tourist Office

P.O.Box 1142

New York, NY 10018-1142

212-944-6880

Fax: 212-730-4568

Bahamas

The Commonwealth of the Bahamas Embassy

2220 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-319-2660

Bangladesh

The People’s Republic of Bangladesh Embassy

3510 International Drive, NW

Washington, DC 20007

202-244-2745

Consulate General of Bangladesh

211 East 43

St.

New York, NY 10017

212-599-6767

Barbados

Barbados Embassy

2144 Wyoming Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-939-9200

Consulate General of Barbados

800 Second Avenue, 2

floor

New York, NY 10017

212-867-8435

Belarus

(Republic of)

Embassy of Belarus

1619 New Hampshire Avenue., N.W.

Washington, DC 20009

202-986-1606

Consulate General of the Republic of Belarus

708 Third Avenue #21

New York, NY 10017

212-682-5392

Belgium

Embassy of Belgium

3330 Garfield Street, NW

Washington, DC 20008

(202) 333-3079

Belgium Consulate General

330 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY 10014

212-586-5110

Belgian National Tourist Office

220 East 42nd Street, Suite 3402

New York, NY 10017

(212) 758-8130

Belize

Embassy of Belize

2535 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington DC 20008

202-332-9636

Bolivia

Embassy of Bolivia

3014 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-483-4410

Consulate General of Bolivia

211 East 43

St.

New York, NY 10017

212-687-0530

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina

2109 E Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20037

202-337-1500

Brazil

Brazilian Embassy

3006 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008-3634

202-238-2700

Brazilian Consulate General

1185 Avenue of the Americas (Sixth Avenue),

21st Floor

New York, NY 10036

917-777-7777

Bulgaria

Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria

1621 22nd Street, NW

Washington D.C. 20008

202-387-0174

Bulgarian Consulate General

121 East 62nd Street,

New York, NY 10021

212-935-4646

Burma

The U.N. Permanent Mission of Myanmar

10 East 77

St.

New York, NY 10021

212-535-1310

Cambodia

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia

4530 16th Street NW

Washington D.C. 20011

202-726-7742

Cameroon

Colombia

Embassy of Colombia

2118 Leroy Place

Washington D.C. 20008

202-387-8338

Consulate General of Colombia

Embassy of the Republic of Cameroon

10 East 46 St.

2349 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-265-8790

Canada

Canadian Embassy

501 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.

Washington, DC 20001

202-682-1740

Canadian Consulate General

1251 Avenue of the Americas (50

St.) New York, NY 10020-1175

212-596-1783

Chile

Embassy of Chile

1732 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20036

202-785-1746

New York, NY 10017

212-949-9898

Costa Rica

Embassy of Costa Rica

2114 “S” Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-234-2945

Consulate of Costa Rica

80 Wall St., Suite 718

New York, NY 10005

212-509-3066

Croatia

Embassy of Croatia

2343 Massachusetts Ave., NW

Washington DC, 20008-2803

202-588-5899

Consulate General of Croatia

Consulate General of Chile

866 U.N. Plaza, Suite 601

New York, NY 10017

212-980-3366

369 Lexington Avenue, 11

New York, NY 10017

212-599-3066

Cuba

floor

China

Embassy of the People's Republic of China

2300 Connecticut Ave., NW,

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-328-2500

Consulate General of the People’s Republic of

China

520 12

Avenue

New York, NY 10036

212-244-1467

Permanent Mission to the UN

315 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-689-7215

Czech Republic

Embassy of the Czech Republic

3900 Spring of Freedom Street, N.W., Suite 705

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-274-9100

Denmark

Royal Danish Embassy

3200 Whitehaven Street, NW

Washington, DC 20008-3683

(202) 234-4300

Royal Danish Consulate General

1 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza

New York, NY 10017

212-223-4545

Dominica

The Commonwealth of Dominica

3216 New Mexico Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20016

202-364-6781/2

Dominican

Republic

Embassy of the Dominican Republic

1715 22nd Street NW

Washington DC 20008

202-332-6280

Dominican Consulate

1501 Broadway

New York, NY 10036

212-768-2480

Ecuador

El Salvador

Embassy of El Salvador

2308 California Street, NW

Washington DC 20008

202-265-9671

Consulate General of El Salvador

46 Park Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-889-3608

Estonia

Embassy of Estonia

1730 M Street, Suite 503, NW

Washington, DC 20036

202-588-0101

Consulate General of the Republic of Estonia

600 Third Avenue, 26th floor

New York, NY 10016

212-883-0636

Ethiopia

Ethiopia Embassy

3506 International Drive, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-364-1200

Ethiopian Consulate General

Ecuador Embassy

866 Second Ave. 3 floor

2535 15

Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20009

202-234-7200

Consulate General of Ecuador

800 Second Avenue #600

New York, NY 10017

212-808-0170

Egypt

Arab Republic of Egypt Embassy

3521 International Court, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-895-5400

Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt

1110 2

Ave., 2

Fl., Room 201

New York, NY 10022

212-759-7120

New York, NY 10017

212-421-1830

Finland

Embassy of Finland

3301 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

(202) 298-5800

Consulate General of Finland

866 U.N. Plaza

New York, NY 10017

212-750-4400

France

Embassy of France

4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.

Washington, DC 20007

202-944-6000

Consulate General of France

10 E 74

Street

New York, NY 10021

212-606-3600

Fiji

Embassy of Fiji

2233 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.

Washington, DC 20007

202-337-8320

Gambia

The Gambia Embassy

1155 15

Street, NW, Suite 1000

Washington, D.C. 20005

202-785-1399

Georgia

Embassy of the Republic of Georgia

1615 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Suite 300

Washington, D.C. 20009

202-387-2390

Germany

Embassy of Germany

4645 Reservoir Road, N.W.

Washington, DC 20007

202-298-4000

Consulate General of Germany

871 United Nations Plaza

New York, NY 10017

212-610-9700

Ghana

Embassy of Ghana

3512 International Drive, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-686-4520

Gibraltar

Gibraltar Information Bureau

1155 15

St., N.W., Suite 1100

Washington, D.C. 20005

202-452-1108

Great Britain

Embassy of the United Kingdom

3100 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-588-6500

British Consulate General

845 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10022

212-745-0202

Greece

Embassy of Greece

2221 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-939-1300

Consulate General of Greece

69 East 79th Street

New York, NY 10021

212-988-5500

Grenada

Consulate General of Grenada

800 Second Avenue #400K

New York, NY 10017

212-599-0301

Guatemala

Embassy of Guatemala

2200 “R” Street, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-745-4952

Consulate General of Guatemala

57 Park Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-686-3837

Guinea-Bissau

The Republic of Guinea-Bissau Embassy

15929 Yukon Lane

Rockville, MD 20855

301-947-3958

Guyana

Embassy of Guyana

2490 Tracy Place, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-265-6900

Consulate General of Guyana

370 Seventh Avenue, 7

Floor

New York, NY 10001

212-947-5110

Haiti

Embassy of the Republic of Haiti

2311 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-332-4090

Consulate General of Haiti

271 Madison Ave #5

New York, NY 10016

212-697-9767

Honduras

Consulate General of Honduras

80 Wall St.

New York, NY 10005

212-269-3611

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Tourist Association

115 E 54

Street

New York, NY 10022

212-421-3382

Hungary

Embassy of the Republic of Hungary

3910 Shoemaker St., N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-362-6730

Consulate of Hungary

223 East 52

St.

New York, NY 10022

212-752-0662

Iceland

Consulate General of Iceland

800 Third Ave

New York, NY 10022

212-593-2700

India

Embassy of India

2107 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-939-7000

Consulate General of India

3 East 64

St.

New York, NY 10021

212-774-0600

Indonesia

Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia

2020 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20036

202-775-5200

Consulate General of Indonesia

5 East 68

St.

New York, NY 10021

212-879-0600

Ireland

Embassy of Ireland

2234 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-462-3939

Consulate of Ireland

345 Park Avenue, 17

floor

New York, NY 10154

212-319-2555

Israel

Embassy of Israel

3514 International Dr. N.W.

Washington DC 20008

202-364-5500

Consulate General of Israel

800 Second Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-449-5400

Italy

Embassy of Italy

3000 Whitehaven Street, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-612-4400

Consulate General of Italy

690 Park Avenue

New York, NY 10021

212-737-9100

Ivory Coast

The Republic of Cote d’Ivoire Embassy

2424 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-797-0300

Jamaica

Jamaica Embassy

1520 New Hampshire Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20036

202-452-0660

Japan

Embassy of Japan

2520 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-238-6700

Consulate of Japan

299 Park Avenue

New York, NY 10171

212-371-8222

Kenya

Embassy of Kenya

2249 R St., N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-387-6101

Fax: 202-462-3829

Consulate of Kenya

424 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-486-1300

Korea

Embassy of the Republic of Korea

2450 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-939-5600

Consulate General of Korea

335 E 45

Street

New York, NY 10017

646-674-6000

Lebanon

9 East 76

St.

New York, NY 10021

212-744-7905

Liberia

The Republic of Liberia Embassy

5201 16

Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20011

(202) 723-0437

Lithuania

(Republic of)

Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania

2622 16

Street, NW

Washington, DC 20009-4202

202-234-5860

Consulate General of Lithuania

420 Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10018

212-354-7840

Luxembourg

Embassy of Luxembourg

2200 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-265-4171

Consulate General of Luxembourg

17 Beekman Place

New York, NY 10022

212-888-6664

Macedonia

Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia

1101 30

Street, NW, Suite 302

Washington, DC 20007

202-337-3063

Malaysia

Consulate General of Malaysia

313 E 43

Street #1

New York, NY 10017

212-490-2722

Mexico

Embassy of Mexico

1911 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20006

202-728-1600

Consulate General of Mexico

27 East 39

St.

New York, NY 10016

212-217-6400

Monaco

Consulate General of Monaco

565 Fifth Ave #23

New York, NY 10017

212-286-0500

Morocco

Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco

1601 21

St., N.W.

Washington, DC 20009

202-462-7979

Consulate General of Morocco

10 East 40

St., 23

Floor

New York, NY 10016

212-758-2625

Nepal

Nepal Mission to the U.N.

820 Second Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-370-3988

Netherlands

Embassy of the Netherlands

4200 Linnean Avene, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

212-244-5300

Consulate General of Netherlands

1 Rockefeller Plaza, 11

floor

New York, NY 10020

212-246-1429

New Zealand

Embassy of New Zealand

37 Observatory Circle, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-328-4800

Nicaragua

(Republic of)

Consulate General of Nicaragua

820 Second Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-986-6562

Nigeria

Consulate General of Nigeria

828 Second Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-850-2200

Norway

Royal Norwegian Embassy

2720 34

St, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-333-6600

Royal Norwegian Consulate General

825 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10022

212-421-7333

Pakistan

Embassy of Pakistan

3517 International Court, NW

Washington DC 20008

202-243-6500

Consulate General of Pakistan

12 East 65

St.

New York, NY 10021

212-879-5800

Panama

Consulate General of Panama

1212 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY 10036

212-840-2450

Paraguay

Consulate of Paraguay

211 E 43

Street #2101

New York, NY 10017

212-682-9441

Peru

Romania

Embassy of Romania

1607 23rd Street, NW

Washington, DC 20008

202-332-4848

Consulate General of Romania

Consulate General of Peru

200 East 38 St. #3

215 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-481-7410

Philippines

Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

1600 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20036

202-467-9300

Philippine Consulate General

556 Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10036

212-764-1330

Poland (Republic of)

Embassy of Poland

2640 16th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20009

202-234-3800

Consulate General of the Republic of Poland

233 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-561-8169

Portugal

Embassy of Portugal

2125 Kalorama Road, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-328-8610

Consulate General of Portugal

590 Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10036

212-221-3165

New York, NY 10016

212-682-9120

Russia

Embassy of the Russian Federation

2650 Wisconsin Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20007

202-298-5700

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone Embassy

1701 19

Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20009

202-939-9261

Saudi Arabia

Consulate General of Saudi Arabia

866 UN Plaza

New York, NY 10017

212-752-2740

Scandinavia

Scandinavian Tourist Board

655 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-855-9700

Slovenia

Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia

1525 New Hampshire Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 667-5363

Consulate General of the Republic of Slovenia

600 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-370-3006

South Africa

Embassy of South Africa

3051 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-232-4400

South African Consulate-General

333 E. 38

St., 9

Floor

New York, NY 10016

212-213-4880

Spain

Embassy of Spain

2375 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20037

202-452-0100

Consulate General of Spain

150 East 58

St.

New York, NY 10155

212-355-4080

Sri Lanka

Embassy of Sri Lanka

2148 Wyoming Avenue NW

Washington DC 20008

202-483-4025 to 28

Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka

630 Third Avenue, 20

Floor

New York, NY 10017

212-490-3690

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Embassy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

3216 New Mexico Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20016

202-364-6730

Consulate General of Saint Vincent and the

Grenadines

801 Second Avenue, 21

floor

New York, NY 10017

212-687-4490

St. Lucia

Saint Lucia Embassy

3216 New Mexico Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20016

202-364-6792/93/94/95

Sweden

Embassy of Sweden

1501 M Street, NW, Suite 900

Washington, DC 20005

202-467-2600

Consulate General of Sweden

885 Second Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-583-2550

Switzerland

Embassy of Switzerland

2900 Cathedral Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20008

202-745-7900

Consulate of Switzerland

633 Third Ave

New York, NY 10017

212-599-5700

Taiwan

The Republic of China on Taiwan Embassy

4201 Wisconsin Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20016

202-895-1800

Trinidad

& Tobago

Consulate of Trinidad and Tobago

733 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-682-7272

Turkey

Embassy of the Republic of Turkey

2525 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20008

202-612-6700

Consulate General of Turkey

821 U.N. Plaza

New York, NY 10017

212-949-0160

Ukraine

Ukraine Embassy

3350 M Street, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20007

202-333-0606

Consulate General of Ukraine

240 East 49

St.

New York, NY 10017

212-371-5690

Uruguay

Consulate General of Uruguay

747 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10017

212-753-8581

Uzbekistan

(Republic of)

Embassy of Uzbekistan

1746 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20036-1903

202-887-5300

Consulate of Uzbekistan

801 Second Avenue, 20

Floor

New York, NY 10017

212-754-7403

Venezuela

(Republic of)

Embassy of Venezuela

1099 30th St., N.W.,

Washington D.C. 20007

202-342-2214

Consulate General of Venezuela

7 East 51

St.

New York, NY 10022

212-826-1660

Vietnam

Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

1233 20

St, NW, Suite 400

Washington, D.C. 20037

202-861-0737

Yemen

Embassy of the Republic of Yemen

2319 Wyoming Avenue, NW

Washington DC 20008

202-965-4760

Zimbabwe

The Republic of Zimbabwe Embassy

1608 New Hampshire Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20009

Bibliography

In addition to the numerous websites referenced throughout the manual, the

publications below were consulted.

Alkin, Marvin C., ed. Encyclopedia of Education Research. 4 vols., 6

edition. New

York, NY: Macmillan, 1992.

Feagles, Shelley. A Guide to Education Systems around the World. Washington:

National Association of Foreign Student Affairs (NAFSA), 1999.

Husen, Torsten and T. Neville Postlethwaite, eds. The International Encyclopedia of

Education. 12 vols., 2

edition. Oxford, England: Pergamon, 1994.

International Education Research Foundation, The New Country Index (Volume 1).

Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press, 2004.

Routledge Taylor and Francis Group. The Europa World Year Book 2005. 2 vols., 46

edition. New York, NY: Routledge, 2005.

International Association of Universities (UNESCO), ed. World Higher Education

Database. London, England: Palgrave MacMillan: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004.

World Almanac and Book of Facts

. 2005 ed.

Worldmark Encyclopedia of Nations

. 2004 ed.