Why You Should Consider the United Kingdom for College

Most American students don’t even consider the UK when pondering their Higher Education options, and that is largely due to a significant lack of available information about the incredible opportunities it offers. 

Having spent the last 12 years of my life working at an Ivy League equivalent university in the UK, promoting the UK to US students, parents and counsellors, and delivering lectures on the UK Higher Education system across 26 states, I have now started my own website in an effort to provide detailed information to all American students.

Here are a few reasons why should seriously look into the UK as a potential study destination:

World Class Education 

The UK is home to world-leading universities with internationally recognized degree programs, and there is strong evidence to support the fact that the UK’s research-led style of teaching is more effective than a testing-based style.

It’s Cheap!

The UK offers much cheaper tuition and 3-year degree programs (4 in Scotland), and students will graduate on time, as we don’t allow students to delay credits. On average, most US families save around $100,000 when they come to the UK.

Transparent Admissions Criteria 

There is no early action, no early decision, very few decisions based upon random essays (just a few universities, e.g., Oxbridge), and no quotas. We only look at your academic testing, and if it meets our requirements, the acceptance rate is 100% for almost all programs (assuming you apply on time etc).

Student Housing 

You get your own room on a floor with other students, so you still get the social element. All bills and taxes are included, and international students get first choice over UK students!

Great Academic Experience

We don’t use TAs in the UK. Class sizes are smaller, students have better access to professors and other academics and the opportunity to gain international work experience.

High Degree Completion Rates 

On average, these are around 90%, and with focused degree programmess 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.

Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime 

Admission to UK universities is 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 also 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.

Studying in the UK Can Be the Right Path For You

Finally, let me say this: most US students will go to US universities, and most UK students will go to UK universities. That is, of course, fine, and I don’t imagine that will ever change. For those of you who attend US universities, I wish you all the very best. You will have a wonderful time.

But for those willing to explore a little bit more, amazing opportunities are available for you in the UK. You’ll graduate faster, save significant money and make international friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. You get to travel and explore the beautiful UK and Europe before you settle down and begin your career. 

Take it from me, a 41-year-old dad trying to raise a 3-year-old; these opportunities don’t come around often in life. So for those of you willing to be a little bit brave, please explore your UK options, it offers you the experience of a lifetime in your own language!