A bachelor’s degree is usually the first four-year undergraduate degree in the United States. Program length varies depending on the institution, degree requirements, and transferable credits.
U.S. higher education includes public and private universities, liberal arts colleges, and other institutions with widely different costs, admission standards, majors, and campus experiences.
What You May Need to Apply
- A secondary-school diploma and academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency, if required
- An application essay and recommendation letters, depending on the institution
- SAT or ACT results, only where required
Choosing the right institution matters more than choosing the most famous name. Consider your academic record, interests, overall budget, and long-term goals.
Educational requirements and costs can change. Confirm details with the institutions you are considering.
University example: Harvard College — Undergraduate Admissions. Harvard is included as an aspirational example of a highly selective institution. Its requirements are not universal.
