In the United States, education is provided in public and private schools and by individuals through homeschooling. State governments set overall educational standards, often mandate standardized tests for K–12 public school systems and supervise, usually through a board of regents, state colleges, and universities.

The first step to studying in the United States is researching your options to find a college or university that best fits your needs. You shouldn't try to match yourself to the school, but rather find the school that matches you and your priorities and long-term goals.

Remember that no official ranking system exists for colleges and universities in the United States. The best college or university is the one that is best for you and meets your requirements—academic, financial, and personal.

At least 12 to 18 months prior to the academic year in which you hope to attend a U.S. college or university, you should begin your research. Start by answering these basic questions and looking at the more specific 'define your priorities' pages under each level of study in this section:

Why do you want to study in the United States?

Where will you fit in best?

Which colleges or universities will meet your needs?

Will you need financial assistance?

What are the application and financial aid deadlines?

Where do you want to live in the United States?

Choose your level of study (e.g. undergraduate, graduate, etc.) to learn more about researching your options. Keep in mind that the schools you apply to must be certified by the Student Exchange Visitor Program.

American courses and ways of learning include:

Curriculum

American international schools offer a wide range of courses from kindergarten through 12th grade. The curriculum includes:

Lower grades: Play, social interaction, letters, numbers, and reading

Middle school: Broad-based courses, including college-bound and vocational streams

High school: Streams such as Honours, Advanced Placement, IB Diploma, and magnet programs

Post-secondary education
After 12th grade, students can pursue vocational training or higher education. Vocational training is typically a year or two, while higher education is typically a two-year associate's degree or four-year bachelor's degree.

Graduate programs
Graduate programs are usually a division of a university or college. To gain admission, students need to take the GRE (graduate record examination) or other specific tests.