Aspects of American education that have particular importance to student exchange programs are discussed in order to assist non-Americans. In addition to philosophical assumptions underlying American education, attention is directed to organization and control, different kinds of institutions and programs, methods of measuring student performance, and quality control mechanisms. Specific topics include: college administration and external and internal controls of higher education institutions, admissions, accreditation, external standardized examinations, credit by examination, classroom examinations, grading, student retention, and costs and financial aid. The following types of schools are covered: elementary and high schools, two-year colleges, four-year liberal arts colleges, other four-year colleges, universities, and other institutions. Programs at the following levels are considered: high school diploma, associate degree, bachelor's degree, master's degree, doctor of philosophy degree, professional degrees, special degrees related to the medical field, non-degree-seeking students, and adult and continuing education. Included are a secondary school record transcript, a glossary, and a diagram illustrating the structure of United States education. (SW)