Undergraduate vs. Graduate vs. Postgraduate Degrees: What Is the Difference?

 Posted on August 13,2026 in Uncategorized

Understanding the degree level you’re looking for can help you compare programs and plan how to pay for school. It can also matter when you apply for scholarships, since some are only open to students at certain stages of their education.

Undergraduate degrees are usually the first degrees students earn in college. Graduate programs come after a bachelor’s degree, while the term "postgraduate" can have different meanings depending on the school or program. Knowing the difference can help you choose a program and find scholarships that fit your level of study.

Scholarships may be based on your grades, major, degree level, life experiences, or other factors. At OVC Scholarship Network, students across the country can search for scholarships with many different opportunities, even if you’re not planning a career in law. 

What is an Undergraduate Degree?

An undergraduate degree is usually the first college degree you earn after high school. Federal Student Aid classifies students working toward associate or bachelor’s degrees as undergraduate students.

Undergraduate degrees are typically put into two main categories:

• Associate degree: Takes about two years of full-time study.

• Bachelor’s degree: Takes about four years of full-time study. Examples include a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS).

Undergraduate students usually take courses for their major along with classes in general subjects such as English, Algebra, and Biology. 

It’s important to be aware that some types of financial aid are only available to undergraduate students. For example, Federal Pell Grants are for eligible undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree.

What is a Graduate Degree?

A graduate degree is a degree you earn after completing a bachelor’s degree. These programs usually focus on one specific subject or career area.

Graduate degrees include both master’s and doctoral degrees. The exact degree name depends on the subject and type of program. Common examples include: 

• Master of Arts (MA)

• Master of Science (MS)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Education (MEd)

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Doctor of Education (EdD)

These programs tend to vary in length. A master’s degree usually requires an extra one or two years of full-time study after a bachelor’s degree, but exactly how long depends on your field of study.

Graduate school may make sense if your career requires another degree or you want to learn more about your field. It’s important to consider how the degree fits your career goals.

What is a Postgraduate Degree?

In the United States, a postgraduate degree is not usually a separate level that comes after a graduate degree. The terms "graduate" and "postgraduate" can sometimes be used interchangeably for education completed after a bachelor’s degree. However, how the terms are used can vary depending on the school or country.

"Postgraduate" describes education that comes after an undergraduate degree, such as:

• Master’s programs

• Doctoral programs

• Postgraduate certificates

The distinction usually matters most when you’re looking at scholarships. Make sure to read the rules to find out which students can apply, and whether or not you are eligible.

What Are the Main Differences Between Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees?

Undergraduate programs give students a broad college education, while graduate programs focus more closely on one subject or career. Some of the biggest differences include:

• Degree types: Undergraduate degrees include associate and bachelor’s degrees. Graduate degrees include master’s and doctoral degrees.

• Coursework: Undergraduate students study their major along with other subjects. Graduate courses are more focused.

• Admissions: Graduate programs usually require a bachelor’s degree, while undergraduate institutions require a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Time in school: Program length depends on the degree and school.

• Scholarships: While scholarship searches tend to be most common for incoming undergraduates, there are plenty of opportunities for graduate and postgraduate students as well. 

Every school and program is different, so it’s important to check its cost, time requirements, and other criteria before deciding if it is right for you.

Can Graduate and Postgraduate Students Get Scholarships?

Scholarships are not only for high school seniors and undergraduate students. They are also available to students at all stages of study, including graduate and postgraduate.

At OVC Scholarship Network, we share scholarships open to a wide range of students. Each program is unique, so keep in mind that you may have to do some research to determine which ones are right for you. A scholarship might consider:

• Your degree level

• Your major

• Your GPA or grades

• Community service

• Personal or family experiences

• Military connections

You may need to meet multiple requirements. For example, a scholarship may be open to many students but require an essay about a certain topic. Always read the full rules before applying.

Find Scholarships That Fit Your Goals with OVC Scholarship Network

Undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students can all find scholarships to help pay for school. OVC Scholarship Network features scholarships for students across the United States, so you are not limited to opportunities near your school or hometown. 

At OVC Scholarship Network, we offer practical information for students getting ready for college, as well as those who are already there or continuing their education. Browse our current scholarships or contact OVC Scholarship Network today to learn more about how we can help.