Why the UK?
1. Top ranked universities
The QS World University Rankings 2020 has 22 of the UK’s universities in the top 150, 4 in the top 10 and 84 featured overall.
UK degrees are recognized worldwide, are recognized by the US Dept of Education and looked upon favourably by US employers.
Universities will all offer careers services with global employer connections.
All universities in the UK are held to strict standards by the UK government to ensure that students receive outstanding teaching and support.
2. Cost and time savings
Depending on the program and university you choose, tuition is approximately $16-30,000 USD per year with $12-18,000 per year required for all associated living expenses.
As UK degree programs are 3 years not 4 (except in Scotland), the costs are reduced even further and students living outside of London can expect to pay towards the lower end of the living expenses. Please note figures fluctuate with exchange rate.
More detailed information on the UK Higher Education system, including why we have 3 year degree programs, can be found by requesting our free guide on the homepage.
3. Transparent admissions criteria
UK Universities clearly state the academic scores required for acceptance.
Admission is often based only on academic excellence: if you achieve the necessary scores, then for almost all programs the acceptance rate is 100%.
The UK has no quota systems when selecting students.
4. Housing
In most cases, students in the UK get their own private bedroom on campus.
All bills and taxes are included, and some have an optional meal plan. Those that don’t, have large kitchen spaces and are cheaper.
International students often get first choice of housing and this is often guaranteed for international students in Year 1.
5. Smaller class sizes
We don’t use Teaching Assistants in the UK, and so you will be taught by qualified academic staff with strong industry links.
In general, class sizes in the UK are much smaller so you’ll have greater access to those academic staff too.
Study methods typically include lectures (Typically 60-150 students), seminars and tutorials (smaller classes with a small group of students and a tutor).
6. Gain international work experience
Work experience opportunities are an increasingly popular part of UK degree programs and are looked upon very favourable by future employers.
Students can often choose to add on an extra year in industry to their degree program called a ‘sandwich year’. This is usually charged at a fraction of the cost of a normal year’s tuition and provides valuable networking opportunities.
7. High and timely completion rates
Completion rates in the UK are on average around 90%.
With focused degree programmes and students unable to transfer credits it is very rare for a student not to graduate within the allotted time, saving you any additional tuition.
8. Make friends and travel
Admission to UK Universities is all based on academics resulting in less natural division among students. With international students often making up 20-30% of a university’s cohort it is easy to make friends from all over the world.
Students in the UK get long vacations and many international students use this opportunity to explore the history and heritage of the UK and Europe. Major cities like Rome, Paris and Barcelona are all just a few hours flight away and flights can often be purchased for less than $100.