* High school diploma (or equivalent): This is the most common prerequisite for entry into a bachelor's degree program in most countries. Equivalents include GEDs in the US and other similar certifications elsewhere.
* Associate's degree: In some cases, students may earn an associate's degree (two-year program) before transferring to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor's degree. This is a common pathway in the US.
* Diploma or certificate programs: Some specialized vocational programs may lead to a diploma or certificate, which might provide credit or experience that could then be applied towards a bachelor's degree. The acceptance of these credits varies widely by institution.
In short, there's no standard "pre-bachelor's degree," but a high school diploma or equivalent is typically the foundation.