FAQ's

Quick answers to the most common questions

Popular questions about studying in the UK

Having worked with students, parents and counsellors across the US for many years we have been asked questions on a huge range of topics. Below we have compiled a list of the most common ones and we hope they help you find the quick answers you need.

How diverse are the campuses?

UK Universities are generally very diverse. In most cases universities will have over 100 different nationalities on campus and often 20% of all staff and students are international. A useful diversity index can be found here.

Do you have fraternities, sororities and college sport in the UK?

There are no fraternities and sororities in the UK. College sport is widely available but not as big as in the US and UK universities rarely have mascots. Students maintain active social lives by joining sports teams, clubs and societies and enjoying all the local area has to offer.

Can I get admittance to a US graduate school with a UK degree?

Yes, successful completion of a UK degree program (with suitable grades) will allow students to attend graduate school in both the US and the UK.

Can I transfer to a UK university/do UK Universities accept credit transfer?

UK Universities will have different policies but transfers and credit transfers are much less common that in the US. Students wishing to attend UK Universities will often have to start from year one.

Can I study on a part-time basis?

No, international students holding a Tier 4 visa are only able to study full time.

Can I easily change my major/program?

Degree programmes in the UK do not include general education requirements with students generally studying their chosen degree subject from year one. This can make changing degree subjects difficult, but it can sometimes be possible for students depending on the university and chosen subjects.

How do I find out the acceptance rate of a university?

Acceptance rates aren’t really relevant when considering study in the UK because the UK admissions process is more transparent than the USA. UK admissions are based solely upon academic achievement and interest in a chosen subject. Things like legacy, finances, sporting talent, musical ability, culture/ family context, where you live are not considered. This means that if you exceed the minimum academic entry criteria, you are very likely to be offered a place to study.

Can I stay on and work after I finish my degree?

Yes, in September 2019 the UK government announced a new two-year post-study work visa, expanding opportunities for talented international students to build successful careers in the UK. The route will be open to international students who entered the UK in the academic year 2020/21 onwards and have completed a degree at undergraduate level or above at reputable higher education institutions. The visa will allow eligible students to work, or look for work, in any career or position of their choice, for two years after completing their studies. You can find out more information about working after your studies on the UKCISA website.

Is it expensive to study in the UK?

No. The UK is often cheaper than in the US! Degree programs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are only 3 years saving you a year of tuition fees and cost-of-living. Timely completion means that students are unable to defer credits and thus usually graduate within the 3 years, resulting in additional savings.

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Christine A Kelly, College Counselor

I've worked with Gary and Lydia for several years, and have found their knowledge, and expertise invaluable as I navigate the international university admission process from the USA. I admire their sincere drive to help students find and enter the university of their choice and appreciate their consistent availability to provide that expertise in a friendly, easy to understand manner. I'm very excited about this website!

Joanna C. Tudge, University Counselor

I have had the pleasure of working with Gary and Lydia for over ten years and they have been a tremendous resource for myself and our students and families who are interested in applying to the UK. Not only have they been amazing advocates for their own institutions, but they have a broad and detailed knowledge of universities and programmes across the UK and have frequently shared their network of contacts with me to help students find the perfect fit. I cannot praise them enough.

Jamie M Rueger, College Counselor

I have not only had the opportunity to work with Gary and Lydia, but also have been able to meet them personally. They are very knowledgeable and helpful in guiding students, parents and counselors through the process of applying through UCAS. I knew next to nothing about directing students through this process and their expertise has been invaluable to me.

Letitia Peterson, Director of College Counselling

As a college counselor in the U.S., I often need some details about the UCAS process for my students who are applying to universities in the UK. Lydia and Gary are very well-informed and responsive if I have any questions or need direction to the appropriate resources. Their combined years of experience with applicants from the U.S. is important, since many families here are unfamiliar with UCAS. On a personal level, it is a pleasure to work with both of them, and I highly recommend their services.

Claire Shepro, College Counselor

Gary and Lydia have been a great resource for both me and my students. They are extremely knowledgeable not only about UK admissions, but about how to "translate" the process so it makes sense to American applicants! My students who have worked with them have really appreciated the time and care they have taken to respond to their inquiries.

Sherrie Tasnady, Guidance Counselor

Both Gary and Lydia understand the questions that international students have and are able to balance their knowledge with the human touch. Their experience of hosting college counselors in the UK make them brilliant guides through the university search and application process and they have the unique ability to look beyond the buildings and programs of study to bring to life the many dimensions of university life. This site will provide all you need to navigate the promising world of the UK educational landscape.

Danny Reynolds, Associate Head for External Relations

I have worked with Gary and Lydia for several years assisting our families in Miami to understand the application process to U.K. universities. Applying via UCAS is so different than applying via the Common Application, especially with the difference in writing the personal statement, but their guidance has alleviated the stressful application process for my students. Anything I was unsure about as a counselor, a quick email to Gary or Lydia would answer my questions. Their guidance has helped me feel more confident about recommending UK universities to my students. Our applications to the U.K. have increased each year.

Tiffani Hooper - Co-Director of College Counseling

Gary and Lydia have years of experience explaining the U.K. university and application system to American students. They are informative, relatable, and an invaluable resource to students applying to universities in U.K. I value them as colleagues and respect their professional expertise.