The Top Ten Differences between the US and International School Curriculums

When it comes to choosing a school for your children, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important is the curriculum – the academic program that the school follows.

Curriculums can vary substantially from country to country, so if you’re looking at schools outside of your own, it’s important to understand the differences between the curriculums offered in those countries and what would be best for your child.

In this article, we outline the top ten differences between the United States and international school curriculums. Keep reading to learn more!

What Are the Top Differences Between the American and International Curriculums?

There are many differences between American and international curriculums, but the ten most noteworthy are:

1. The Length of the School Year

One of the most significant differences between the United States and international school curriculums is the length of the school year. In the United States, the typical school year runs from late August/early September to late May/early June, for a total of approximately 180 days.

However, in many other countries around the world, the school year is shorter, often running from early September to late June or early July. This means that students in international schools have fewer days in the classroom but more time for vacations and holidays.

2. The Length of the School Day

Another difference between US and international schools is the length of the school day. In the United States, most elementary schools have a 6.5-hour day, while many middle and high schools have a 7-hour day.

However, in international schools, the average school day is 7.5 hours long. This extra hour typically includes a lunch break and two 15-minute recesses, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

3. The Structure of the Curriculum

The US curriculum is typically divided into grade levels, with each level covering a specific range of material. For example, first graders learn about addition and subtraction, while fifth graders learn about multiplication and division.

On the other hand, international school curriculums often follow a more flexible approach, with students moving at their own pace and being able to choose which subjects they want to focus on.

4. The School Week

The length of the school week is also different in US and international schools. In the United States, most schools are in session five days a week, with Monday through Friday being the typical school days.

However, in many international schools, the school week is more extended, often running from Monday to Friday plus Saturday morning. This schedule allows for more time for students to complete their work and receive help from teachers, but it also means that students have less free time on weekends.

5. The Focus of the Curriculum

In the United States, the curriculum is typically more specialized, with students taking a variety of courses in different subjects. For example, a typical high school student might take classes in English, math, science, history, and foreign language.

However, in many international schools, the curriculum is more focused on a particular area of study. For example, a student might take classes in business, economics, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) instead of a traditional academic schedule.

In addition, since international schools attract students from all over the world, they typically emphasize foreign language instruction more than U.S. schools. This is beneficial for students who want to learn a second or third language, as they will have more opportunities to do so at an international school.

6. The Teachers

The teachers in United States and international schools also differ in a few ways. In the United States, most teachers are certified by the state in which they work. However, in many international schools, the teachers are not required to be certified.

In addition, the majority of United States teachers have a bachelor’s degree in education, while many international school teachers have a bachelor’s degree in their subject area. For example, a history teacher might have a degree in history rather than education.

7. The Class Size

Another difference between US and international schools is class size. In the United States, the average class size is around 25 students. However, in many international schools, the average class size is much smaller, often around 15 students. This smaller class size allows for more individual attention from the teacher and a more intimate learning environment.

8. The Grading System

The grading system is also different in the United States and international schools. In the United States, grades are typically given on a scale of A through F, with A being the highest and F being the lowest.

However, in many international schools, grades are given on a scale of 1 through 7, with 7 being the highest and 1 being the lowest. This difference can be confusing for students who are used to the US grading system, but it is important to remember that the standards for each grade are different in each country.

9. The Testing

Another significant difference between US and international schools is the amount of testing that students are required to take. In the United States, students are typically required to take a variety of standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.

However, in many international schools, students are not required to take any standardized tests. This difference is due to the fact that international schools often use a different educational philosophy than US schools.

10. The Cost

Finally, one of the most important differences between US and international schools is the cost. In the United States, public schools are free to attend, while private schools can be very expensive.

However, in many international schools, tuition can be even higher than at US private schools. This high cost is due to the fact that international schools often have a higher standard of education than US schools.

As you can see, there are a number of differences between US and international schools. These differences can be confusing for students and parents, but it is important to remember that each type of school has its own strengths and weaknesses. It is up to the individual student to decide which type of school is right for them.

Why the US. High School Curriculum is the Best?

The American high school curriculum prepares students for college and the real world. Here are the top reasons why it is the best:

• It emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills: The American high school curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is evident in the way that subjects such as English, history, and science are taught.
• It teaches students how to research and write: The American high school curriculum teaches students how to research and write. This is an essential skill for college and the real world.
• It prepares students for standardized tests: The American high school curriculum prepares students for standardized tests such as the SAT, PSAT, and ACT. This is important because these tests are often required for college admission.
• It offers a wide range of courses: The American high school curriculum offers a wide range of courses. This allows students to explore their interests and find their passion.
• It allows students to take advanced courses:The American high school curriculum allows students to take advanced courses. This is important because it allows students to challenge themselves academically.
• It teaches students how to balance work and school:The American high school curriculum teaches students how to balance work and school. This is an important skill for college and the real world.
• It gives students the opportunity to earn college credits: The American high school curriculum gives students the opportunity to earn college credits. This can be a great way to save money on tuition.
• It offers extracurricular activities: The American high school curriculum offers extracurricular activities. This is important because it allows students to explore their interests and find their passion.
• It teaches students how to manage their time: The American high school curriculum teaches students how to manage their time. This is an important skill for college and the real world.
• It prepares students for the real world: The American high school curriculum prepares students for the real world. This is evident in the way that subjects such as English, history, and science are taught.

Final Thoughts

The differences between the US and international school curriculums are vast. It’s important to understand these distinctions when making the decision to send your child abroad for high school.

If you would like more information on how the High School of America curriculum compares to other programs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you decide if our program is right for your family.