Hi all...

(hopefully soon to be "Hi y'all"!)

Perhaps I'm jumping the gu a little here, I still don't have an approved visa, but the process is almost complete...

When my dear lady wife and I move back to the US (well... my wife is going "back"... I'm just following!) we will be looking for jobs.

I know I have plenty of experience in various fields (mostly aviation) so I don't think getting a job will be too much trouble (but any advice you may have would be most welcome!), but I have often wondered how british qualification levels translate into US levels...

I have 11 GCSEs (O-levels for the old school here!) and 3 A-Levels (and countless other "diplomas" and certificates for specialist subjects).

Would I be considered "High School Graduate" or "College Graduate" in the US?

Many thanks in advance...

I understand that A levels are considered to be equivalent to an Associates Degree - at least that's what I always get told by agencies etc, since it's 2 years of education after graduating from high school. It's like half a bachelors to them.

I think there are professional agencies who will "translate" your qualifications into US equivalent. Not sure who does it, but try googling it and see what you come up with. You'd probably need to show that "translation" to an employer anyway, so they have an idea of what your education is.

Rene

Yes I guess it depends on how much of a part your qualifications play in the job you want. In my case I have more than enough experience to be able to get away with not having any real qualifications. The fact that I have 'some college experience' is always sufficient.

I used http://www.trustfortecorp.com/ and for about $100 got a 24-hour turnaround. There is also a place called http://www.wes.org which is recognized.

Wes would be the big one, but it's a waste of time and money until your asked to, because it's an unregulated business anyone can do it, but anyway, employer might have a company they use for it etc.

A degree from a proper uni is still a degree regardless.

The issue might be any security clearance if needed depending on what field of aviation.

Apart from that, it's all about contacts and experience really, so best get networking.

If the OP thinks he shouldn't have much trouble finding a job, there's little point in getting an agency to convert your British academic qualifications into American equivalents because the businesses are unregulated.

Most importantly, the OP should start working on converting his CV to a resume or American CV. Please search for previous threads on this topic in this and the Trailer Park forum.