- Elementary School (Grades K-5): Typically ages 5-11
- Middle School (Grades 6-8): Typically ages 11-14
- High School (Grades 9-12): Typically ages 14-18
High school graduates will typically have completed 12 years of formal education before graduating.
To pursue postgraduate education in the United States, such as a master's degree or a doctorate, a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is typically required. A bachelor's degree typically requires 4 years of post-secondary education.
Therefore, in most cases, it would be necessary to complete 16 years of education (12 years of elementary and high school, and 4 years of college) before pursuing postgraduate studies in the United States.
However, it's important to note that there may be exceptions and alternative pathways, and admission requirements can vary depending on the specific program and institution.