Your guide to the requirements, costs, and types of associate degrees, as well as the differences between them and bachelor's degrees.

There are a variety of advantages to earning an associate degree, such as easier access to higher education, higher income, or it could be your first step to working in a specific industry. However, what precisely is an associate degree?

What is an Associate Degree?

Associate degrees are awarded after completion of a two-year undergraduate study program. Associate degrees are designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to begin working in a certain profession or for those who want to earn their associate degree as their first step toward a bachelor's degree.

They are also commonly offered at junior colleges, technical schools, and community colleges in the top international education destinations like the USA and Canada.

Why Associate Degrees?

Associate degrees are quite popular among overseas students for a variety of reasons:

  • The tuition fees are quite affordable

  • Can be the road to your dream bachelor's program

  • Starting your career right away

  • Gaining the skills and credentials most in demand by prospective employers

What are the types of Associate Degrees?

Associate degrees are classified into 4 types:

  • Associate of Applied Arts (AAA)

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

  • Associate of Arts (AA)

  • Associate of Science (AS)

The core difference is that the AA and AS are geared toward students who desire to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree, while the 'applied' programs are more focused on training students for a specific field and emphasis practical vocational skills.

Entry Requirements for Pursing Associate Degrees

In general, Associate degree programs tend to have less stringent entry admissions standards than bachelor's degree programs, and they can be a good option for students who don't quite make the cut for a bachelor's degree at their dream university. However, you will need to provide:

  • A high school diploma or an equivalent test

  • A transcript of GPA that meets the criteria set by several community institutions

  • Proof of English proficiency, such as the IELTS or TOEFL test

  • Transcript (grades) official record

  • Statement of purpose

Tuition Fees and Financial Aid for Associate Degrees

The cost of earning an Associate Degree varies widely from one institution to another and country to another. However, the tuition fees range from $5,000 to $20,000 per year or more.

As long as the institution or the college is accredited, students enrolling in associate degree programs may qualify for federal financial aid. However, students who are willing to study in the USA may need to find out if they are eligible for federal student loans and other forms of financial aid, fill out a FAFSA application (The official website of the USA government) to discover.

The Difference Between an Associate Degree and a Bachelor's Degree & Which is Better?

  • While both the Associate's and bachelor's are considered to be undergraduate-level degrees , only those with a bachelor’s can apply for a master's degree.

  • It takes only two years to earn an associate degree, compared to four years for a bachelor's degree in the USA or any European country.

  • To earn an associate degree, you need to complete 60 credits, while a bachelor's degree requires 120. Depending on the specifics of your associate degree program, you may be able to transfer up to 60 credits toward your bachelor's degree, allowing you to graduate earlier.

  • It is easier to apply for an associate degree because the entrance standards are less stringent, and the tuition costs are significantly lower than for a bachelor's degree.

Turn your ambition into reality

Interested in finding out more details about pursuing your Associate Degree overseas? Book your free appointment with your IDP-Certified Counsellor to help you choose the college that’s right for you and guide you through the paperwork to make it happen.