UK School Years vs. US Grades: Age & System Comparison Chart
Quick Answer: The US and UK education systems use different terminology. US “Kindergarten” (age 5-6) is equivalent to UK “Year 1”. US “1st Grade” is UK “Year 2”, and so on. The UK system starts formal schooling earlier with “Reception” (age 4-5), which is similar to US Pre-K.
For families moving between the United States and the United Kingdom, or for anyone trying to understand academic records from the other country, the difference in school year naming can be a major source of confusion. This guide and comparison chart will help you translate between the two systems with ease.
UK vs. US Grade Conversion Chart
This chart provides a direct comparison of grade/year names based on the typical age of the student during that academic year.
| Typical Age | US Grade Level | UK Year Level | UK School Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 | Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) | Reception | Primary (EYFS) |
| 5-6 | Kindergarten | Year 1 | Primary (Key Stage 1) |
| 6-7 | 1st Grade | Year 2 | Primary (Key Stage 1) |
| 7-8 | 2nd Grade | Year 3 | Primary (Key Stage 2) |
| 8-9 | 3rd Grade | Year 4 | Primary (Key Stage 2) |
| 9-10 | 4th Grade | Year 5 | Primary (Key Stage 2) |
| 10-11 | 5th Grade | Year 6 | Primary (Key Stage 2) |
| 11-12 | 6th Grade | Year 7 | Secondary (Key Stage 3) |
| 12-13 | 7th Grade | Year 8 | Secondary (Key Stage 3) |
| 13-14 | 8th Grade | Year 9 | Secondary (Key Stage 3) |
| 14-15 | 9th Grade (Freshman) | Year 10 | Secondary (GCSEs) |
| 15-16 | 10th Grade (Sophomore) | Year 11 | Secondary (GCSEs) |
| 16-17 | 11th Grade (Junior) | Year 12 | Sixth Form/College (A-Levels) |
| 17-18 | 12th Grade (Senior) | Year 13 | Sixth Form/College (A-Levels) |
Key Differences Between the Systems
- Start Age: Formal schooling starts earlier in the UK with “Reception” at age 4. In the US, formal schooling begins with “Kindergarten” at age 5.
- Naming Convention: The US uses “Grades” (Kindergarten, then 1st-12th). The UK uses “Years” (Reception, then Year 1-13).
- Key Stages vs. School Levels: The UK system is structured around Key Stages which mark specific assessment points. The US system is structured by school levels: Elementary, Middle, and High School.
- Terminal Exams: The UK system has major national exams like GCSEs (at the end of Year 11) and A-Levels (at the end of Year 13) that are crucial for advancing. The US system is more focused on coursework, GPA, and a final diploma, with optional standardized tests like the SAT or ACT for college admissions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is “Sixth Form” in the UK?
Sixth Form refers to the final two years of secondary education in the UK (Years 12 and 13). It is the equivalent of the 11th and 12th grades in the US and is dedicated to advanced study (A-Levels) in preparation for university.
If I’m moving, how do I enroll my child in the correct grade?
School districts will typically place a child based on their age. Using the chart above is a good guideline. However, the final placement decision rests with the school administration, who may also consider the student’s academic records. It is best to contact the school district in your new location directly.
Why is there an extra year (Year 13) in the UK system?
The numbering is the main difference. Both systems provide for 13 years of education from the first year of formal schooling (Kindergarten in the US, Reception in the UK) through the final year of secondary school. The US counts K, 1-12 (13 years), while the UK counts Reception, 1-13 but calls the last two years “Sixth Form.” The length of education is the same.
Last Updated: April 2025