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High school

A US school for grades 9 to 12 (ages about 14 to 18). In Scotland some secondary schools are also called high schools.

Used in
United States, Scotland
Topic
Phases and year groups

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Freshman United States
A student in the first year of high school (grade 9) or college.
Sophomore United States
A student in the second year of high school (grade 10) or college.
Junior United States
A student in the third year of high school (grade 11) or college.
Senior United States
A student in the final year of high school (grade 12) or college.
Secondary school All four UK nations (details may differ)
A school for pupils aged about 11 to 16 or 18, covering Years 7 to 11 (and often 12 to 13) in England and Wales, S1 to S6 in Scotland and Years 8 to 14 in Northern Ireland.

More terms: Phases and year groups

First grade · Fourth grade · Grade level · Higher education · Junior high school · K-12

More terms starting with H · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.