Why study in the UK?

• International: An international presence among both faculty and students.
• Research: Faculty are renowned for active research involvement.
• Graduation rates: More than 80% of students graduate on time.
• Focused and Student Directed Learning Model: Unlike the liberal arts focus of many US colleges, the UK offers a different approach.
• Professional degrees: Certain professional degrees, such as law, medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine are available at the undergraduate level.

Who is best suited to study in the UK?

• Focused and student directed learning model: The vast majority of UK universities are not liberal arts institutions. Students focus solely on one or two subjects and classes are not taken outside of the chosen subjects. There is much less class time than in US colleges and students work more independently.
• Teaching method: The typical UK university uses lectures and tutorials.
• Assessments: There may be few or no assessments prior to the final exam.
• Age: Many first year students are a year or two older than US college freshmen.
• Living Accommodations: Depending upon the university, students may live in halls (dormitories) or flats (apartments). Many UK students cook for themselves.
• Length of Study: University in England is a three-year course of study. In Scotland and Wales, university study is four years in length.

How do I apply?

All British universities use the UCAS online application system. The US Common Application includes several UK institutions. However, if a student is applying to more than one British university, I suggest using UCAS.

• Admissions Philosophy: Universities are looking for academic readiness in a particular field.
• Transparent Admissions: UK universities post minimum testing and GPA requirements on their websites.
• Admissions Requirements: Most UK universities will look for advanced coursework in the subject of study such as AP or IB classes.
• Limit on Number of Universities: A student can apply to up to five universities.
• Personal Statement: There is one common personal statement for all universities which should demonstrate the student’s interest in and experience with the subject of study.

What decision can I expect?

• Universities offer three types of decisions: Unconditional offer, conditional offer or unsuccessful (denial).
• Tuition: For US students, tuition ranges from $11,000-$40,000 per year. US students often pay a higher fee than UK or certain EU students.
• Scholarships: Limited scholarships are available.