The American education system is divided into several levels: elementary school, middle school, high school, and higher education. Students typically start elementary school around age 5 and progress through grades 1 to 5. After that, they attend middle school for grades 6 to 8, followed by high school from grades 9 to 12, where they can earn a high school diploma. Higher education includes colleges and universities, where students can pursue associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, and advanced degrees. The system is largely decentralized, with each state having its own regulations and standards, leading to variations in curriculum and educational quality across the country.