The UK is home to many outstanding universities, and studying in the UK is a great option for international students. From the heart of London, to coastal towns and more remote villages, there’s something for everyone. But there are some clear differences between the UK and US, starting with how you choose and apply to a university.
Here are the 4 main differences between the US and the UK to consider before you apply:
Choosing a specific course of study.
When you apply to UK universities, you choose a specific course – essentially your major, in US terms. You can apply to a maximum of five courses, and you’ll study primarily that subject for three years (more on that in the next section!). This can be great if you know exactly what you want to study and you’re not looking for a liberal arts-based curriculum like what is offered at many US college and universities.
Since you only submit one personal statement to all your courses, it’s important to choose courses that are the same or closely related so that you can adequately explain your interest in the subject in your statement.
Three-year undergraduate degree.
Undergraduate degrees in the UK are three years, except for universities in Scotland where the courses are four years. In England, Northern Ireland and Wales, you can create a four-year course by adding a year of work or a year abroad, but most undergraduate degrees can be completed in three years. This is partly due to the fact that courses are quite prescriptive and don’t require additional elective or general education courses like US colleges and universities typically do.
Entry requirements.
Entry to UK universities is largely determined by your academic record, and courses clearly outline their entry requirements. You should choose courses that have entry requirements aligned with your academic profile. For IB Diploma students, the requirements are often very clear (and very specific!), but for AP students it can sometimes be a bit murky. AP students may have the option of using a combination of AP exam scores and SAT or ACT scores.
Even if you’re in the early stages of thinking about the UK, you should choose your IB/AP courses carefully to ensure you’ll meet any potential entry requirements for your chosen course(s).
It's also important to remember that decisions are made based on predicted scores, and any offers of admission are conditional upon you earning the required scores on your IB or AP exams.
Academic and student life.
If you’re considering studying in the UK, you also need to consider what you’re looking for in a university experience. Universities in the UK differ from the US both in and out of the classroom.
In the classroom, you can expect the academic experience to be primarily lecture- and assessment-based. There will be less group work and more independent study, although the balance depends on your course of study.
Outside the classroom, life at UK universities is generally more independent than in the US. Housing is primarily off-campus, and many students will find their own housing in apartments or houses nearby. UK universities don’t have athletics programs like the US – club or intramural sports will be available, but intercollegiate competition is limited. But, most universities in the UK have very robust student unions that organize clubs, activities and student services, so there are still plenty of opportunities to engage in student life!
Corpus Christi College at the University of Cambridge. Image
Is attending university in the UK right for you?
If you’re not sure, consider exploring and applying to both US and UK options! Many LogicPrep students research the US, UK, and Canada when building their college lists. Depending on what you’re looking for, you could find a great college match on either side of the pond!
When in doubt, consult a College Advisor to help you find the right college (or university) match for your interests, goals, and personality.