The VWO diploma is a secondary school diploma in the Netherlands, awarded to students who complete the Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs program. This program typically lasts six years and prepares students for higher education, particularly at universities. To earn the VWO diploma, students must pass a series of national exams in various subjects, including languages, mathematics, and sciences. Achieving this diploma allows students to pursue further studies at universities, making it an important step for those aiming for academic careers.