In England, what Americans call high school is called secondary school. Students attend secondary school from age 11 to 16 (or 18 if they stay for sixth form). So, if you’re asking “what is high school called in England,” the simple answer is secondary school.
Understanding the English School System
The English education system is divided into primary and secondary phases. Primary school covers ages 4 to 11 (Years 1 to 6). Secondary school covers ages 11 to 16 (Years 7 to 11). After Year 11, students can choose to continue in a sixth form or college for two more years.
Unlike the US, where high school typically starts at age 14 (9th grade), England starts secondary school much earlier. This is a key difference for American families moving to the UK.
Year Equivalents: England vs. US
To make it easier to compare, here is a simple chart showing how English school years line up with American grades. Remember, the English school year starts in September, just like the US.
| Age | England (Year) | US (Grade) |
|---|---|---|
| 11-12 | Year 7 | 6th grade |
| 12-13 | Year 8 | 7th grade |
| 13-14 | Year 9 | 8th grade |
| 14-15 | Year 10 | 9th grade (Freshman) |
| 15-16 | Year 11 | 10th grade (Sophomore) |
| 16-17 | Year 12 (Lower Sixth) | 11th grade (Junior) |
| 17-18 | Year 13 (Upper Sixth) | 12th grade (Senior) |
So, if a US student is a freshman (age 14), they would be in Year 10 in England. If they are a senior (age 17), they would be in Year 13.
Key Exams and Qualifications
In the US, students earn a high school diploma. In England, students take national exams called GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) at the end of Year 11. These exams are in multiple subjects and are a big deal for college and job applications.
After GCSEs, students who stay in school for Years 12 and 13 study for A-levels (Advanced Levels). A-levels are subject-specific and are the main route to university in England. Some students instead attend a separate sixth form college or a further education college.
Different Types of Secondary Schools
Just like the US has public and private schools, England has several types of secondary schools. Most are state-funded and free, but there are also independent (private) schools. Here is a quick list of the main types:
- Comprehensive schools: State-funded, non-selective, and open to all students in the area.
- Grammar schools: State-funded but selective, requiring an entrance exam called the 11-plus.
- Academies: State-funded but run independently, often with a focus on a particular subject.
- Free schools: Similar to academies, but set up by parents, teachers, or charities.
- Independent schools: Also called private or public schools (like Eton), and they charge tuition.
This variety means parents in England have more choices than just a neighborhood school, similar to magnet or charter schools in the US.
What About the Word “High School”?
Some schools in England do use the term “high school” in their name, such as “Birmingham High School” or “Manchester High School for Girls.” However, this is just a historical name, not a separate type of school. The official and common term for the entire phase is secondary school.
Also, note that in Scotland, the term is “secondary school” too, but the exam system is different (Nationals and Highers). This article focuses on England, which is part of the UK but has its own education system.
How This Affects US Students Studying Abroad
If you are an American student moving to England, you will be placed in a year based on your age, not your grade level. The chart above will help you know what to expect. Your US grades and credits may not transfer directly, but schools will help you adjust.
For college planning, US universities accept A-levels as equivalent to AP or IB courses. GCSEs count as high school coursework. If you plan to apply to US colleges from England, you will still take the SAT or ACT, but your A-level results will strengthen your application.
Financial Aid and School Costs
State-funded secondary schools in England are free for all students, including children of US expats living there on a work visa. There are no tuition fees. However, you may need to pay for uniforms, school trips, and lunch. Independent schools cost money, but they offer scholarships and bursaries.
For US federal financial aid, the FAFSA only applies to US colleges. If you attend secondary school in England, you do not need FAFSA for that. But when you later apply to US universities, you can use FAFSA as usual, regardless of where you attended high school.
Final Thoughts
So, to answer the question again: high school in England is called secondary school. It covers ages 11 to 16, with optional years for A-levels until age 18. Understanding this simple term will make it much easier to navigate the English education system.
If you are moving to England, contact the local council or school admissions office before you arrive. They will help you find a place and explain the year placement. And remember, while the name is different, the goal is the same: to prepare students for college and careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact term for high school in England?
The exact term is secondary school. Some schools use “high school” in their name, but secondary school is the official term.
At what age do students start secondary school in England?
Students start secondary school at age 11, in Year 7. This is earlier than the US, where high school starts at age 14.
Is secondary school free in England?
Yes, most secondary schools are state-funded and free to attend, including for children of US expats on work visas.
What exams do students take at the end of secondary school?
Students take GCSE exams at age 16, and if they stay for A-levels, they take those at age 18.
How does an English secondary school year compare to US high school grades?
Year 7 is like 6th grade, Year 10 is like 9th grade, and Year 11 is like 10th grade. Years 12-13 are like 11th and 12th grades.
