What education level is my german "Abitur" in the US?

Question

Next year i graduate from a german "gymnasium" and have my "abitur".since i want to move to the states i need to know what my abitur is "worth"?!does anybody know how it is transfered to an education level in the states?

Answer 1

You have to submit all educational documents for review to the institution you want to attend.  Some will recognize this as a two year degree equivalent and reduce the time needed for a Baccalaureate Degree and others might not see anything more than high school completion.  Unless you  are set on attending a specific university  in the US it is best to "shop" your credentials to all schools you are willing to attend.  That gives you a chance to maximize what you get for what you have earned.

My personal feeling is that because this a required exam to measure suitability and eligibility for University consideration in Europe I see it as on par with mandatory proficiency exams most US states require for similar purposes.  I would allow your certificate as high school completion with honors but would not grant additional college level credit to be allowed.

I hope this helps.  Your I-20 and F-1 are matters of a different discussion.  Expect to deposit a sum equal to at least two semesters worth of tuition plus ancillary supplies, room and boarding along with standard deposits and registration/application fees.

You will have to do this in advance.  Bear in mind that you can't work here on a standard student visa until you are a grad student.  You have to prove that you can sustain yourself without additional income over the undergrad years.

I hope this helps.  Let me know if I can be of any additional help.

Walter