The American education system is known for its flexibility, individualized approach, and wide range of elective subjects. It is offered in many international schools in Brussels and is especially popular among expatriate families or those seeking a more personalized and student-centered educational experience.

Although education in the U.S. is governed at the state and district levels, which can lead to some local differences, the overall structure remains largely consistent across the country and in American-curriculum schools abroad.

Before starting elementary school, most children attend Preschool (ages 3–4), followed by Kindergarten (age 5), which is mandatory in most U.S. states.

These early years focus on emotional, social, linguistic, and cognitive development in a playful yet structured environment.

Elementary school typically runs from 1st Grade (age 6) to 5th Grade (age 10–11). Students build foundational skills in core subjects such as:

• English (reading and writing)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social studies
• Physical education and the arts

There are no national exams at this stage; progress is monitored continuously by the teacher.

Middle School usually includes 6th to 8th Grade. It serves as a transition between childhood and adolescence. Students begin to explore new subjects and electives such as visual arts, theater, computer science, technology, or foreign languages, alongside the core curriculum.

Some states conduct standardized testing at this stage, but no official diploma is awarded.

High School covers the final four years: 9th Grade (Freshman year) to 12th Grade (Senior year). Students must earn a set number of credits in required and elective subjects to graduate with a High School Diploma.

Coursework is typically split into:

• Core subjects: English, mathematics, sciences, history, physical education
• Electives: psychology, journalism, business, art, coding, music, and more

The High School Diploma is awarded by the school based on continuous assessment throughout these four years. It marks the end of secondary education.

Unlike many European systems, there is no single national exam at the end of high school. Instead, admission to higher education institutions, especially in the U.S., may depend on results from standardized tests such as:

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
• ACT (American College Testing)

These tests assess general academic skills and are often required by colleges and universities, particularly for competitive admissions.
Some schools also offer AP (Advanced Placement) courses – college-level classes that can earn students credits at U.S. or international universities.

After high school, students may enter:

• Universities (public or private), usually offering Bachelor’s degrees over 4 years
• Community colleges with 2-year associate degrees or technical/professional training
• Specialized colleges (art, music, business, etc.)

The U.S. follows the Bachelor–Master–Doctorate model, but students often build customized paths based on interests, majors, and credit accumulation.

• A flexible and student-focused system
• A wide variety of electives to support individual talents
• Continuous assessment instead of pressure from a single exam
• A diploma recognized in the U.S. and by many international universities
• Well-suited for globally mobile families or independent learners