Jordan Education System & Credential Evaluation

A guide to the Jordan education system and how your credentials compare to US standards for immigration, university admissions, and employment.

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Overview of the Jordan Education System

Jordan operates a 12-year system of general education overseen by the Ministry of Education. Arabic is the official language of instruction, with English taught as a compulsory subject from Grade 1. The academic year runs from September to June. Jordan has a well-regarded education system by regional standards, with high literacy rates and a strong tradition of academic achievement. The country is also home to a significant Palestinian and Syrian refugee population, adding complexity to its educational landscape.

Structure of the Education System

Basic Education — 10 Years (Ages 6–16, Grades 1–10)

Compulsory and free. Covers Arabic, English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Islamic Education, Civic Education, Arts, and Physical Education. At the end of Grade 10, students sit the Basic Certificate Examination.

Secondary Education — 2 Years (Ages 16–18, Grades 11–12)

Students choose Academic (Scientific or Literary track) or Vocational streams. Culminates in the General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihi / al-Thanawiyya al-Amma), administered by the Ministry of Education. The Tawjihi is the primary qualification for university admission and is highly competitive.

University Education

The University of Jordan is the flagship institution. Bachelor's degrees take 4 years. Jordan is a regional hub for higher education with strong programs in medicine, engineering, and IT. Master's degrees are 2 years.

Grade Conversion Scale for Jordan

Grade Scale	Description	US Equivalent
90–100	Excellent (Mumtaz)	A
80–89	Very Good (Jayyid Jiddan)	B
70–79	Good (Jayyid)	C
60–69	Accepted (Maqbool)	D
0–59	Fail (Rasib)	F

Key Credentials

General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihi) — Grade 12; equivalent to a US high school diploma
Bachelor's Degree — 4 years
Master's Degree — 2 years

US Equivalency of Jordan Credentials

The Tawjihi is equivalent to a US high school diploma
A Jordanian 4-year Bachelor's degree is equivalent to a US Bachelor's degree
A Jordanian Master's degree is equivalent to a US Master's degree

Why You Need a Credential Evaluation

A formal credential evaluation is required for US university admissions, employment-based immigration petitions (H-1B, EB-1A, EB2-NIW, O-1, L-1), and professional licensing.

If your documents are in Arabic

All Jordan academic documents must be accompanied by certified English translations. Evaluation World offers Arabic-to-English translation services combined with your evaluation order.