What grade is a 15-year-old in?
A 15-year-old is in Grade 9 (Freshman) or Grade 10 (Sophomore). In a September 1 state: January–August birthdays → Grade 10; September–December birthdays → Grade 9.
Select your country and region, then choose the child's date of birth to see their grade and school timeline.
Grade 10: Sophomore year and the PSAT
Sophomore year is when many students take the PSAT 10 (in October), begin seriously building their extracurricular record for college applications, and select AP or honors courses for Junior year. The PSAT score at this stage is a baseline — the Junior-year PSAT (PSAT/NMSQT) is the one that qualifies for National Merit Scholarship consideration. Sophomore year is also when most states allow a learner's driving permit (age 15) and full license (age 16), depending on exact birthday and state laws.
FAQ
What grade is a 15-year-old in?
A 15-year-old is in Grade 9 (Freshman) or Grade 10 (Sophomore). In most US states (September 1 cutoff): January–August birthdays → Sophomore (Grade 10); September–December birthdays → Freshman (Grade 9).
What is a Sophomore?
Sophomore is the informal name for a Grade 10 student — the second year of high school. The word comes from Greek: sophos (wise) + moros (foolish), reflecting the half-formed expertise of a second-year student.