In the United States, students begin higher education after completing 12 years of primary and secondary school.
Size varies too.
Experts at U.S. educational advising centers around the world can help you sort through these categories. The United States government does not recognize or approve colleges and universities as does the ministry of education in many countries. Be sure that the universities in which you are interested are accredited by an agency recognized by the Department of Education. Accreditation assures you that the institution has met certain academic, administrative, and fiscal standards. Accreditation also assures you that your degree will be recognized by other educational institutions and by employers.