Today, I'd like to share valuable insights on what grade level students should enter when moving to the United States or transferring between states within the U.S. We'll explore considerations that can give students an advantage in college admissions when initially enrolling in an American school.

These insights come from my accumulated experience managing an academy and observing the challenges, regrets, and successes of many individuals. My goal is to share this expertise to assist those with similar plans in the future.

In most states, the middle and high school academic year begins in September. The entry grade for kindergarten in the U.S. is generally determined based on a September cut-off date, similar to how some countries use December as a cut-off. Many states follow this September guideline, meaning students born in August enter a higher grade, while those born in September enter the lower grade. Most high schools also adhere to a September 1st or the first week of September start date, so keep that in mind.

According to the comparison, starting at the 7th grade in the U.S. (equivalent to the 1st year of middle school in some countries), students who move to the U.S. at a younger age often adapt well without major issues. This means that students in the 6th grade can transition to the U.S. relatively smoothly.

However, there are certain grades that present more challenges, which I will explain in detail below. Generally, elementary school ends at 5th grade, and high school begins at 9th grade, but in some states, high school starts in 8th grade. It’s important not to assume uniformity across the U.S., although the structure I've described is generally the case.

Since many countries do not start their school year in September, students transferring to the U.S. may sometimes choose between a lower or higher grade depending on what they have completed previously. The key grades that often cause concern start from the 2nd year of middle school (7th grade in the U.S.). After this, students may need to choose between entering 8th or 9th grade, depending on the timing.

If the student attended an international school before moving to the U.S., the transition is usually smoother. However, if the student was enrolled in a local school, they may face the choice between 8th and 9th grade.

In U.S. college applications, grades and extracurricular activities are recorded starting from 9th grade, making 8th grade relatively less significant. Thus, if 8th grade is the year in which students adapt and make mistakes, it is less consequential.

Because the U.S. does not have issues with grade titles, starting at 8th grade in middle school can be advantageous. If given the choice, I recommend starting in 8th grade. Another important point is that if the student is well-prepared in English, it is best to enter regular classes without taking ESL (English as a Second Language), ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), or ELL (English Language Learner) courses, even if evidence needs to be provided or a test needs to be taken. If the student’s English is somewhat lacking, they may be placed in these classes, but it is essential to set a goal to enter regular classes by 9th grade.

In Summary:

• If unsure about which grade to enter, opt for a lower grade!
• Work to exit ESL classes as quickly as possible.
• If possible, negotiate to enter higher-level tracks in subjects like math and others.

(Include an image of the math curriculum.)

Refer to the curriculum chart for math courses. For American-born students, Algebra 1 or Geometry is typically taken in 9th grade, Algebra 2 in 10th grade, and Pre-Calculus in 11th grade. For students from countries with more advanced math education, Algebra 2 or even Pre-Calculus might be taken in 9th grade. If aiming for American colleges, don’t just follow the assigned track based on grade level; strive to take Geometry or Algebra 2 in 9th grade. To achieve this, advocate strongly to start Algebra 1 or Geometry in 8th grade. This will help prevent difficulties during college admissions. Many parents and students regret not advocating strongly enough and simply following the default track set by the school. Therefore, even if it is challenging or uncomfortable, make a strong case to enroll in a higher track from a lower grade.

When advocating, schools may respond in two ways:

1. By Administering a Test: The school may offer a placement test to assess the student's readiness for a higher-level course.
2. By Requesting a Parental Waiver: They might ask you to sign a waiver stating that you requested the higher placement and will not hold the school responsible if the student struggles.

Some schools, however, may flatly refuse, even without offering tests or waivers. In such cases, it may be wise to consider transferring to a different school. If possible, exploring other schools could be a smart choice.

Starting with an Advantage is Crucial! Ensuring that the student begins at least at Algebra 2 in 9th grade is very important. It is rare for schools to offer advanced math or science tracks to transfer students. Thus, while following the assigned track, it is beneficial to maintain strong grades and highlight strengths to move into better tracks in future classes.

Once again, I emphasize:

• Start in the lowest grade possible when transferring! If transferring during what would be the 3rd year of middle school and given the option of 8th or 9th grade, always start in 8th grade. This provides a valuable adjustment period in a lower-pressure environment. Also, attending regular classes rather than ESL is essential. If placed in ESL, aim to exit within a few months.

Families relocating to the U.S. for work or study often regret starting in 10th grade. Students transferring in middle or high school should ideally enter 9th grade for better college prospects.

If a student starts in ESL classes during the second semester of 10th grade or in 11th grade, they will have limited time to participate in activities or showcase their strengths. Therefore, if aiming realistically, plan for universities ranked between 50th to 100th in the U.S. In some cases, students who transfer in 10th grade and have strong English skills can still aim for top 20 schools.

If a student is in 11th grade under a different educational system, it is often better to remain there and thoroughly prepare before applying to U.S. colleges. Adapting to a new school environment and language in 11th grade can be very challenging, so it is better to apply to U.S. universities from your current country. Transferring in 11th grade often results in lower grades, so it is not recommended. I have not seen cases of transfers in 12th grade.

To Summarize:

• Insist on starting in a lower grade when entering a new school.
• Exit lower-level English courses as quickly as possible.
• Negotiate for advanced tracks in subjects beyond just math if possible.

Although many parents worry that difficult courses could lead to poor grades and increased stress, experience and statistics show that the regret rate is much lower when applying to colleges. Students who are strong in English and have studied under rigorous educational systems can usually keep up in social studies and science courses in the U.S. Remember that choosing a higher track may lead to better adaptation than expected. Please keep these points in mind, negotiate as much as possible, and ensure to finalize agreements before enrollment.

I hope my insights and expertise have been helpful, and I conclude today’s post with that intention. I have shared useful information based on my experience running an academy, and I hope this is helpful for those planning to transfer to the U.S. or within the U.S.