In the table below you can find the level of American diplomas. You cannot derive any rights from it.

Working in the Netherlands

Do you want to know if you can work in the Netherlands with a certain American diploma? Go to Working in the Netherlands with a foreign diploma.

Studying in the Netherlands

Do you want to know if you can study in the Netherlands with your American diploma? Go to Studying in the Netherlands with a foreign diploma.

Diploma Comparable to
General Educational Development credential (GED) a diploma
High School Diploma usually a diploma, but at least a VMBO-T diploma and at most a diploma

Associate’s degree
(‘terminal/vocational program’)

usually an diploma level 4
Associate’s degree
(‘transfer program’)
an associate degree, but in some cases a VWO diploma
Bachelor’s degree usually an or a bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree usually an HBO or a WO master’s degree

Please note:

  • You can find information about the Dutch diplomas on our web pages about the education system in the Netherlands.
  • You can find more information about how we compare diplomas via Credential evaluation.
  • The SBB evaluates foreign diplomas and training at VMBO and MBO level. The evaluation may vary if the SBB evaluates the diploma for admission to VET schools or for work in the Netherlands.