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Common App vs UCAS: Which Should US Students Use for UK Universities?

Posted on by Jackie Christopher
 

If you’re applying to universities in both the US and UK, you may find yourself deciding between two different application systems: Common App and UCAS.


Both can be used to apply to certain UK universities, but they weren’t designed for the same purpose. Common App is primarily used for college applications in the US, while UCAS is the centralized application system used across UK higher education.


So, if a UK university appears on Common App, should you apply there? Or should you use UCAS instead?


The best choice depends on how many UK universities you’re considering, whether the UK is a serious part of your university search, and which institutions are on your list.


Here’s what US students need to know.

Common App vs UCAS at a Glance

Common AppUCAS
Primarily designed forUS and international college applicationsUK higher education applications
UK university availabilitySelected participating UK universitiesBroad access to UK undergraduate universities
Number of choicesUp to 20 colleges overallUp to 5 university/course choices
Application feeIndividual colleges may charge their own application fees£34.50 for the 2027 cycle
Application writingCommon App structure; requirements vary by universityThree structured personal statement questions
Best fit forStudents primarily applying in the US with a small number of participating UK universitiesStudents seriously considering several UK universities
RequirementsVary by institutionVary by university and course

What Is UCAS?

UCAS is the centralized application system used to apply to undergraduate universities and courses across the UK.


For the 2027 admissions cycle, students can add up to five university or course choices to one UCAS application for a £34.50 application fee.


Unlike the US admissions process, you aren’t applying generally to a university and choosing your major later. In the UK, you typically apply directly to the specific degree you want to study.


That means your five UCAS choices could include five different universities offering the same or similar subject, or different courses within the options allowed by UCAS.


UCAS is designed specifically around the UK admissions system, so if you’re seriously considering studying in the UK, it will usually give you access to the widest range of university options.

What Is Common App?

Common App is a centralized application platform widely used by colleges and universities in the United States.


Students can add up to 20 colleges to their Common App account, although individual universities may have their own application fees and additional requirements.


Common App also includes universities outside the US, including a number of UK institutions.


For an American student who is already applying to US colleges, seeing a UK university appear in Common App can make applying overseas feel much simpler. You may be able to add that university without starting an entirely separate application process.


But convenience isn’t the only thing you should consider.

Can You Apply to UK Universities Through Common App?

Yes. A number of UK universities accept applications from US or international students through Common App.


For example, Common App currently lists universities including the University of Glasgow, University of St Andrews, University of Aberdeen, University of Dundee and University of Stirling among its participating UK institutions.


However, not every UK university participates in Common App, and participation can change from one admissions cycle to another.


If you’re considering several universities in the UK, don’t build your entire UK list around the universities you happen to see on Common App.


Start by identifying the universities and courses that best fit your academic profile and goals. Then look at which application routes those universities accept.

Common App UK Universities

A number of UK universities have offered applications through Common App, including:

Aberystwyth University

Anglia Ruskin University

Arts University Bournemouth

Brunel University London

Edinburgh Napier University

ESCP Business School

Swansea University

University of Aberdeen

University of Bradford

University of Dundee

University of East London

University of Glasgow

University of Plymouth

University of Roehampton

University of St Andrews

University of Stirling

University of the West of England, Bristol

University of West London

University of Worchester


Important: Common App participation can change. Always confirm that the university and course you’re interested in currently accept Common App applications before applying.


Where possible, you can also use The UK Study Expert’s university profiles to research US entry requirements and learn more about individual universities before building your final list.

Should You Use Common App or UCAS for UK Universities?

There isn’t one answer that works for every student.


Instead, think about where UK universities fit into your overall application strategy.


If You’re Primarily Applying to US Universities

If most of your university list is in the United States and you’re considering only one or two UK universities that participate in Common App, using Common App may make sense.


You’re already completing the platform for your US applications, and keeping those applications together can make the process easier to manage.


Before applying, however, confirm that your UK university accepts Common App applications for your specific situation and review any university-specific requirements.

If You’re Seriously Considering Several UK Universities

If studying in the UK is a serious option and you’re considering several British universities, UCAS will usually make more sense.


UCAS gives you much broader access to UK undergraduate universities and courses, rather than limiting your choices to the smaller number of UK institutions participating in Common App.


It also keeps your UK applications together within the system specifically designed for the UK admissions process.

If the UK University You Want Isn’t on Common App

Then Common App won’t solve the problem.


You may need to apply through UCAS or, where available, directly to the university.


If you’re wondering how UCAS compares with applying directly to a UK university, read our guide to UCAS vs UK University Applications.

How Common App and UCAS Applications Differ

The number of universities you can apply to isn’t the only difference between the two platforms.


Number of University Choices

Common App: Students can add up to 20 colleges overall.

UCAS: Undergraduate applicants can add up to five choices.


Remember that a UCAS “choice” is connected to a specific university and course. Because UK students apply directly to their degree subject, your course selection is an important part of building your UCAS list.

Application Fees

With Common App, individual colleges may charge their own application fees, although some universities have no application fee.


For the 2027 UCAS cycle, the application fee is £34.50, which allows undergraduate students to add up to five choices.

Personal Statement and Application Writing

This is another area where the two application systems work differently.


Common App requirements vary by university. Some colleges require the Common App personal essay, while others do not, and individual institutions may have their own questions or additional requirements.


UCAS now uses three structured personal statement questions rather than the single long-form personal statement used in previous application cycles:

  1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?
  2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you prepare for this course or subject?
  3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?


The overall UCAS personal statement limit remains 4,000 characters across the three responses.


Because your UCAS application is sent to all of your choices, your responses should focus primarily on the subject you want to study, rather than writing separate essays about why you want to attend each individual university.

University-Specific Requirements

Don’t assume that applying to a UK university through Common App means you’ll have exactly the same requirements you see with your US colleges.


Requirements vary.


For example, some UK universities on Common App don’t require the standard Common App personal essay.


Always review the individual university’s requirements before submitting your application.

Planning to Apply Through UCAS?

If UCAS looks like the better fit for your UK university plans, our 2027 UCAS Guide walks you through the application step by step, from setting up your application to understanding what belongs in each section and what to check before you submit.

Get the 2027 UCAS Guide for $27 →

Can You Apply to UK Universities Through Both Common App and UCAS?

Students sometimes find themselves using both Common App and UCAS, especially when applying to universities in both the US and UK.


That doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve done anything wrong. You may use Common App for your US universities and UCAS for most of your UK choices.


Where you need to be careful is submitting applications to the same UK university through multiple systems.


Individual universities can have their own policies for how they handle Common App and UCAS applications.


Ashley Warmington, Senior International Officer from the University of Glasgow, previously explained how Glasgow handles the process behind the scenes:


“Behind the scenes, every Common App turns into a UCAS application during processing. If a student applies and accepts their offer on the Common App, the admissions team will transfer their information to UCAS. If they find that their UCAS is already full with universities, it becomes an issue.”


That insight is still important today.


The University of Glasgow’s current guidance specifically tells students not to submit a Common App application to Glasgow if they already have a live UCAS application, even if Glasgow isn’t one of their UCAS choices.


Glasgow explains that doing so can cause delays with student records, immigration documentation, accommodation access and enrollment.


Other universities may handle applications differently, which is why you shouldn’t assume the same rule applies everywhere.


Before applying to the same UK university through more than one application system, check that university’s current policy or ask its admissions team.

What If You’ve Already Applied Through Both Common App and UCAS?

Don’t panic, but don’t submit additional applications or make decisions about your offers without understanding how the university handles the two systems.


Start by looking at the admissions guidance for the UK university involved.


If the answer isn’t clear, contact the university’s admissions team and explain:

  • That you’ve submitted applications through both systems
  • Which universities you’ve selected through UCAS
  • Whether you’ve received or accepted any offers
  • Which application you’d like to move forward with


The university can tell you what, if anything, you need to do next.


This is much better than assuming the Common App and UCAS applications will sort themselves out behind the scenes.

UK University Entry Requirements

Choosing the right application platform is only part of the process.


You’ll also need to make sure you’re academically eligible for the UK universities and courses on your list.


UK universities evaluate US qualifications differently. Depending on the university and course, entry requirements may consider:

  • Your high school GPA
  • AP exams
  • SAT or ACT scores where applicable
  • College-level coursework
  • Subject-specific prerequisites
  • Other academic qualifications


You can use our Undergraduate University Search Tool to explore UK universities and see their US undergraduate entry requirements.

Search UK Universities →

So, Should You Use Common App or UCAS?

Here’s the simplest way to think about it.


Common App may make sense if:

  • You’re primarily applying to universities in the US
  • You’re considering only one or two UK universities
  • Those universities currently accept Common App applications
  • You want to manage most of your applications within one platform


UCAS may make more sense if:

  • Studying in the UK is a serious goal
  • You’re considering several UK universities
  • Some of your preferred universities aren’t on Common App
  • You want access to the broader UK university system
  • You’re building a focused UK application strategy around your course and academic profile


And remember: you don’t need to choose your university based on which application platform is easiest.


Choose the universities and courses that fit you first. Then determine the best way to apply.

Want Help Building the Right UK Application Strategy?

Choosing between Common App and UCAS is only one part of applying to university in the UK.


Your academic profile, university choices, course requirements, UCAS responses, reference and application details all need to work together.


With the UK Study Accelerator, you get expert support as you build and strengthen your UK university application. We can help you identify the universities that fit your profile, refine your application strategy and review your UCAS application before you submit.

Explore the UK Study Accelerator →

Degrees in Scotland

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Have you ever wondered, what the differences are from Scottish degrees compared to English, Welsh and Northern Irish degrees? Ashley Warmington from University of Glasgow explains:

There are four nations within the UK;  England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. The education system is mostly similar across the UK, but as students progress into high school, Scotland has a different degree structure than the rest of the UK.

Part of the appeal of earning a degree in the UK is the absence of general education or core curriculum requirements. Students apply directly to their major and study it from day one. This degree structure is fantastic for a student who knows what they want. But what about for those who don’t?

Scottish degrees are typically four years in length and are designed to offer breadth and depth in studies. In Scotland, students have a great deal of flexibility and choice in their first two years of study. While students will still study their chosen major right away, they will also study two or sometimes three subjects of their choosing from outside of their major. These are often referred to as Enhanced Study options.

Enhanced Study options are a great way for students to explore other interest areas or elevate their understanding of their major by engaging with other disciplines. Whether you want to heighten your employability by taking a language alongside your studies or maybe you want to take a subject you were torn between when you chose your major, you can use the subjects you study outside of your major to have a truly tailored degree experience. Another benefit of enhanced study options is that students can switch their major to any subject they have studied from year one. For instance, if you are an English Literature major you might like to study History and a Language alongside your major in first year. As you progress to second year maybe you’ve discovered you much prefer History – the Scottish degree structure allows you to change.

While this isn’t quite for the student who really has no idea what they want to specialize in, the Scottish degree does offer focused flexibility that allows for wiggle room as you grow and discover your academic interests during your studies. It is common for students in Scotland to drop or pick up a joint major, choose a minor in year 3 or change their degree altogether to a subject they have been studying since year one.

There are some restrictions when it comes to what you can study outside of your major. Firstly, you will need to meet the pre-requisites of any subject. Secondly, there can’t be any timetable clashes with your major. Lastly, some courses such as Medicine or other professional degrees might not have the same flexible options.

Overall, the Scottish degree structure is a fantastic springboard for students who want to have control over what they study and the flexibility to change specialisms.

Ashley Warmington is the Senior International Officer for western USA at the University of Glasgow. Ashley studied her undergraduate degree in Scotland and has worked in UK admissions since 2016. She is now based in Southern California, where she helps American students through the UK application process.

5 Things US Students Should Expect | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Not only is applying to university a big step but applying to a UK university is a larger one! You need to navigate the different admissions processes, obtain your visa and book a flight. Once you’ve hurdled all these steps and you’re done, what should you can you expect when you start this new, exciting life?

 

1. Flatmates vs. Roommates

Many UK universities offer students accommodation where they will have their own bedroom.  This means you do not have to worry whether or not you will vibe well with a roommate. Some university accommodations will even have an en-suite option where you will get your own bathroom with toilet and shower! That being said, instead of roommates you will have flatmates. Each flat may be compromised of 5-7 other students that you will share a kitchen and possible sitting room with. Therefore, it is important to understand boundaries and not make too much noise in the hallways.

 

2. Three Year Degrees

Most UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) courses are very subject focused, meaning that if you are studying a history degree you won’t be expected to take any math classes. Due to the lack of general education requirements UK degrees are only three years, rather than the 4 years you may be familiar with in the USA. If you wish to take classes outside of your chosen major many universities will have classes open for the public that students can take for free or at a reduced rate.

 

3. Takeaway, Meal Plans, Kitchens and More

You may be used to the concept of meal plans as many US universities require first year students to take out a meal plan. While available, they are not as common at UK universities. This is due to students having access to a kitchen in their accommodation. This allows you to start cook your own meals at your own time. If you don’t want to cook, no problem! The UK has a variety of places to order delivery, or takeaway, as it’s referred to here. Most universities will also have a variety of cafes, food halls or more to help ease the rumble in your stomach.

 

4. No Grades for Attendance

Academics works a bit different in the UK than it does in the US. For one, there are less things that you will be graded over. In the US you might expect to have 10% of your grade for attendance, 20% for participation, 20% for homework, 50% for exams or tests. In the UK many courses, or modules, will only grade you on your submitted work or seated exams. So, if you have 2 essays and one exam, your essays may be worth 25% each and your exam for 50% of your grade! While daunting, many departments will help to prepare you for each of your assignments and you will receive a personal tutor, similar to a US advisor, who can help answer any questions you may have.

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Another thing to prepare for is the grading scale. For an undergraduate course a failure is below 40% and below 50% for a postgraduate degree. You can then get an undergraduate degree that is labelled as a third-class degree (40-50%), 2.2 degree (50-60%), 2.1 degree (60-70%) or a first degree (anything over 70%).

 

5. Hundreds of Societies

Students in the UK are able to join a variety of societies that cater to their interests. This can range from sport societies, such as rugby, soccer and American football, to specific societies that relate to your course, hobbies, politics, beliefs and more! Most of these societies will allow you to go to the first meeting free of charge before you are expected to pay a smaller membership fee that goes to the students Union.

 

The students union is a common concept in the UK and is there to work or the student. They help to raise awareness of student issues at the university and work on improving student satisfaction. The students union will have a variety of student-elected full-time officers that serve as the student voice on campus. They may hold positions that focus on wellbeing, student opportunities, societies and more. The students union will also hold events on campus and hosts a variety of welcome activities during the first week of term to help introduce new students to student life.

 

Jackie Jarocki is a Regional Officer at Aberystwyth University. Jackie is a former international student from the USA who came to study in the UK in 2018 and never left! She has been working in the UK Higher Education in international student recruitment since 2019.

Student Support at UK Universities

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Supporting our students in all areas of their life is one of the most important values to British universities and, as a result, we have plenty of options in place to make sure your time at university is as amazing as possible!

 

A lot of support actually starts before you even arrive in the UK. The universities you apply to will run pre-departure sessions, aimed at preparing you for both life and study in the UK, as well as more practical elements of moving across the pond. At University of Sussex, we run sessions covering Campus Life, Housing, Finance, Visa application, Life in the UK, and Moving to the UK in the months leading up to you leaving for university.

 

Academic support is obviously vital to you completing your degree successfully, and universities across the UK offer plenty of resources for you to maximize your learning potential. Most universities will allocate you an academic advisory, a member of teaching staff in your department who is there to help you out with any challenges you might be facing with your degree program. Also, don’t forget, all of your professors will have office hours to drop into and discuss content from each module you’re taking! We also run university-wide sessions on things like essay-writing, note-taking, and presentation skills- all things you’ll need throughout your degree.

 

If you are someone that might need extra support academically due to a disability, then universities have extra processes in place to support you. This can include working with you to provide an individual support plan, contact with our dedicated support workers, and working to support your academic life at a higher level, particularly with essays and exams.

 

Whilst the academic support we provide is essential, so is enhancing other areas of your life- after all, universities is a whole life experience! UK universities all have teams to help out with different issues you may run into in your day-to-day life. At Sussex, our student support options cover:

  • Student life: this can be pretty broad, covering anything from budgeting advice to homesickness to relationship advice

  • Mental health support: at Sussex, we offer free counseling to our students and can work with the on-campus doctors to support mental well-being

  • Residential life and housing: whether you’re living on or off campus

  • Careers and Employability: this is a service you can use throughout your degree and also 3-years post-graduation

  • International Student Support

  • Health

  • Religion and spirituality

 

Universities want you to have the best possible time, so these are all services we encourage you to reach out to if you feel you need it!

 

We also want our campus spaces to be a safe as possible. This will work differently depending on whether you’re at a campus or city-based university, but never doubt that there will be support available. At Sussex, we offer a 24/7 security team who patrol the campus, with security pick-up points across campus. We have a dedicated emergency line and phones across campus, and our Residential Life team are trained in crisis management.

 

There are also loads of other outlets for support at UK universities (sports clubs, societies, the Students’ Union, mentoring programs) but it’s safe to say that you’ll be well supported during your time at your chosen British university!

 

Kasia Symons is the International Officer for the Americas at University of Sussex.

Should You Consider a Foundation Year?

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Foundation years are something that are often overlooked in the UK university system, but provide benefits to certain students. There are typically two different types of foundation years in the UK.

 

The first is aimed at those who need some assistance with English before undertaking a full degree. This is called international foundation. We wouldn’t recommend this to US students since their first language is English. The second is a different type of foundation year, that students might take for a number of different reasons, and it is this one that would be most relevant to students from the US.

 

Foundation year is a preparatory pathway taken prior to starting a three-year degree in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They are in broad subject areas, which will allow you to progress into a more specialized area. For example, at University of Sussex, our foundation year in Business, Management and Economics will allow students to progress into any of our 3-year degrees in the University of Sussex Business School.

 

So why take a foundation year?

A foundation year can be taken for a number of different reasons. As you start to research English universities, you’ll see that undergraduate degrees are in specialized areas (and start in the subject from day 1; we don’t have general education classes in our system!). But you might not be ready to commit to something that early on, so a Foundation Year can provide you with an intro year in a broad subject area whilst you finalize your choice on the three-year degree.

 

Most English degree programs will have specific academic requirements that you need to meet to be granted a place. This may be AP test scores, SAT/ACT scores, GPA, and we do this to ensure that you’ll be able to manage the workload on your chosen degree. If your test scores aren’t quite matching up, you could also consider a foundation year. There will still be requirements to meet (again to ensure that you can work at the foundation year level which is higher than high school), but they tend to be lower than the requirements for the degree, and give you that chance to bridge the gap between high school and first year of university.

 

Think of it like a final year top-up or attending community college in the US: It’s a great option if your grades aren’t strong enough to get into the school of your choice and you want to improve your academic skills. The foundation year gives you that option but you won’t be taking general education classes. Instead, you will be developing your subject knowledge before starting your bachelor’s degree.

 

You may also want to consider a foundation year if you’re rethinking your educational path, or if you’re coming back to education after a little while out.

 

How can a foundation year benefit me?

Foundations years have the aim of preparing students to be successful in the full degree they progress into. Because of this, you will be learning material specifically aimed to preparing you for a certain subject area – when school may not have done for you! You’ll learn essential skills and knowledge, and be taught by members of your university’s faculty. In fact, you’ll be considered a full member of the university, and get access to all the support services, facilities, and student life experiences that English universities have to offer.

 

What happens next?

Once you have successfully completed your foundation year (each university will have a certain grade they need you to make), you can then progress into one of the 3-year degrees that is in your chosen pathway. For example, the Social Sciences foundation year can lead into degrees in Politics, Law, Sociology, International Relations, Criminology, Geography- just to name a few. At this point, you’ll join the first year of your chosen degree and complete it successfully! And we know that students who have done a foundation year do really well too! At University of Sussex, over 88% of foundation year students went on to achieve the top two grades in their full degree in 2021.

 

Kasia Symons is the International Officer for the Americas at University of Sussex.

An American Studying in Leeds

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Ian is an American student in his second year of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at Leeds Beckett University in Leeds, England. As the third-largest city in the UK, Leeds is home to 70,000 students and three universities! It’s also known as the ‘financial capitol of the North’ and is an affordable yet cosmopolitan English city only 2.5 hours from London!

 

Ian is originally from California and was living in San Francisco before moving to the UK to study. We asked him 10 questions about what it’s like being a US student in Leeds.

 

What made you want to study in the UK?

To be honest, I had never really thought about it before, but I knew I wanted to be in another country. I wanted to travel around Europe due to its proximity to the UK – Covid soon put a stop to that, but I could still explore Leeds and the surrounding areas.

 

University tuition is much more affordable in the UK than in the US, and everyone speaks English of course, so there isn’t a language barrier – but you’re still able to gain a different cultural experience. The free healthcare through the NHS is also a huge bonus!

 

What do you like about the city of Leeds?

Leeds has some beautiful architecture, both old and new – and the university campuses really show that. Headingley Campus has beautiful old architecture and a lush campus surrounded by trees, whereas the City Campus is in practically in the middle of the city centre and has some brand-new modern buildings.

 

Leeds itself has so many things to do. I love going for a walk along the canal, checking out the culture and arts scene, and visiting all the shops. No matter what your interests are, there’s always so much to do in Leeds – and you can discover the city online to see what the experience will be like before you get here.

 

LeedsThe city of Leeds is renowned for its wealth of nightlife, entertainment, shopping and dining.

Leeds

The city of Leeds is renowned for its wealth of nightlife, entertainment, shopping and dining.

 

For my filmmaking degree, it was because the Northern Film School is based in Leeds. The school is industry leading with lots of top professors, plus the brand new £85 million Leeds School of Arts building with a built-in cinema is amazing!

Leeds School of ArtsThe new Leeds School of Arts opened in Spring 2021.

Leeds School of Arts

The new Leeds School of Arts opened in Spring 2021.

All courses are practical based, so I have unlimited access to software such as the Adobe Creative Suite, which usually costs a lot. Your classes are pre-selected too, which is totally different to the competition to secure a place in classes at universities in the States. It’s good to know that you are guaranteed those classes and it takes a lot of the pressure off! I could even try out specialisms in Year 1 and now focus on those in Year 2.

 

How are you finding your time in Leeds so far?

I’ll admit that arriving during a pandemic was tough. I would say I’m not as outspoken in a Zoom class as I would be in-person. I couldn’t meet my peers because I was studying online and when I arrived in Leeds, so lots of my classmates already knew each other. However, it surprised me just how nice they all were! I was slightly worried because I’m 26 and my peers are 18 but I get along with them well.

 

During the pandemic I started jogging, even when it was snowing, so that’s certainly a positive! Now that things have opened again here in the UK, I’ve been able to see more and there are more part-time jobs available. I work in a café and as a global ambassador for the university, which is really nice as I get to speak to lots of different people.

 

What were the most surprising things about Leeds?

Considering Leeds is one of the UK’s largest cities, the city centre is really compact, especially compared to US cities – so it’s surprisingly walkable. You don’t need to drive, and there is plenty of public transport.

 

You’re so close to nature as well as the city. I’m still wrapping my head around how green it all is! Even the trees at home in California are brown! That’s the best part of living in a city surrounded by countryside – it’s a nice mix between the two.

Yorkshire DalesThe green countryside of the Yorkshire Dales is only a short journey outside of Leeds.

Yorkshire Dales

The green countryside of the Yorkshire Dales is only a short journey outside of Leeds.

 

I also couldn’t believe that even though the UK is such a small country, there are so many different dialects from one region to the next. I’m still trying to learn the Yorkshire accent and sayings!

 

What do you enjoy doing outside of your studies?

I’m pretty boring so I don’t go clubbing but I can appreciate how many clubs and events there are for students. Personally, I love brunch. There are so many options in Leeds for breakfast and coffee.

 

I love bouldering, which I thought was quite a niche hobby, but I was pleasantly surprised to see there are so many facilities. And if you want a bit of retail therapy then there is the Corn Exchange, where there are some small, independent shops.

Corn ExchangeThe Leeds Corn Exchange was built in 1863, and is home to independent shops and cafes.

Corn Exchange

The Leeds Corn Exchange was built in 1863, and is home to independent shops and cafes.

My course has a secret cinema club where we have cinema showings every week and that’s built into the program. You will find a lot of courses have that. I’m really looking forward to doing that in-person now that things have opened up.

 

I didn’t join any societies because I wanted to make sure I was able to balance my course work with the social side of things, but there are so many available to join through the Leeds Beckett Students’ Union.

 

What are some differences between the UK and the US?

I would say there are huge cultural differences, mainly around the way people behave. In America, you don’t really hang out outside much, even if it’s sunny, but people always sit outside here when they’re eating or drinking – even when it’s cold! It’s very social. You even talk to people that you don’t know which is very different. I was sat at a table one time and someone asked me “Oh, what are you reading?” I was walking down the street when someone asked me “Are you alright?”- I wondered if there was something wrong with me or if I looked sick, but I soon realised they are just so friendly here and it’s simply a way of saying hello in the UK. I’m still getting used to it!

 

What words of advice would you give to Americans looking to study in the UK?

 

Do your research! As with any big leap, there will always be lots of surprises and just try to be prepared as much as you can. I would just say keep your mind open to the adventure. Some things will go right, and some things will go wrong – if you’re open to new experiences and challenges, you will have a great time.

 

Many new students ask about where to live and how to find housing. What would you recommend?

 

I would recommend living on campus if you can because it’s so convenient! The biggest issue with going for private housing is that landlords here will want you to pay a big chunk of rent up front, and that’s because overseas students don’t have a UK guarantor. Living on campus in university-managed housing solves that issue, and rent can be paid in instalments. Leeds Beckett has some fantastic university accommodation options, which you can check out on their website.

AccommodationLeeds Beckett offers a range of university-managed accommodation for every budget.

Accommodation

Leeds Beckett offers a range of university-managed accommodation for every budget.

Rent is so much cheaper in Leeds than in San Francisco. I was paying $1,500 per month in San Francisco for a 200 sq ft studio. If I wanted a big, modern studio flat in Leeds then I would pay something like £675 per month, which is so affordable in comparison. And you could still get great housing for much cheaper than that!

 

Do you think Leeds is an affordable place to live?

In my opinion, absolutely! Leeds is so cheap to live compared to what I’ve experienced and compared to other cities in the UK. Free healthcare is also astonishing as an American!

 

I couldn’t believe how cheap groceries and beer are. The fact that I can buy a loaf of bread for a few pence is staggering. Even eggs would be at least $12 in America but they’re £1.95 here. I’ll leave you with a small tip: if you are trying to find eggs in the grocery store, I would recommend looking next to the bread and not in the refrigerated section!

 

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Thank you to Ian for contributing to this blog about the student experience in the UK. If you are interested in learning more about Leeds Beckett University, please visit  www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/international.

 

You can also read student blogs from other international students in Leeds here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/blogs/student-blog-squad/

Studying Your Graduate Degree in Sheffield | UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

After finishing my undergraduate studies in 2015, I decided to take a break from school and worked full-time for my local government for six years to think about what I wanted to do for my postgraduate studies. During this time, I started to understand how pervasive social injustice is in the United States and around the world. This understanding was greatly enhanced with various crises on national and international stages such as the United States federal government’s response to immigration at the Southern Border, immigration crises around the world, the ramifications of climate change, government instability, war, and more recently, COVID-19.

 

All these crises have made me ask if local, national, and international solutions were available (and if so, what solutions), why such little action continued to be taken, why governments cannot or simply do not effectively work together to seek and implement solutions, and what the roles of local communities and governments, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and national and international governments should be. Because these questions require an interdisciplinary approach that at the very least incorporates sociology, anthropology, history, and politics, I decided to study International Development.

 

Studying in the UK has been a lifelong dream. I looked at programs all over the country and eventually decided on the University of Sheffield because of my program’s courses as well as the student support. The student support was especially important to me in my postgraduate studies since I was studying internationally.

 

I have since been impressed with all the opportunities that the University offers to students before beginning their studies (through frequent webinars and one-on-one chats with staff and current students) and during their studies (through volunteer, career, and student engagement opportunities, in addition to student well-being support). My program had a week’s worth of welcome activities that introduced me to the university’s support services, my professors, and courses, and this also helped me make friends quickly and thus settle into life in Sheffield faster than I would have otherwise.

 

In addition to my program, I am excited to be taking French classes through the University and am still figuring out what other extracurricular activities that I would like to participate in. There is so much to love about Sheffield. So far, my favorite thing about Sheffield is the beauty. Even on rainy days, there is so much beauty to be found in the greenery of the landscape as well as the city’s architecture. Additionally, people here are so kind and helpful, and I have always felt safe.

 

I do not have any specific plans for when I complete my degree. I love government work and would like to return to that, whether for a local, state, or federal government in the United States or perhaps for the United Nations. I know that I would want to work with policy and/or project management, and that I would like to pursue my PhD at some point. My professors have created an academically rigorous program that prioritizes professional development and exposure to different career options, so with their guidance, I know that I will be prepared for a PhD program and that I will be able to find my career path.

 

Haley Myers grew up in Idaho and is a current student at University of Sheffield. She is studying a Master’s of Public Health in International Development.

 

 

How The UK Study Expert Can Help You

Looking to find your best match UK university? Lucky for you, the UK Study Expert has taken the guesswork out of figuring out what each university requires with our handy dandy search tool. Or you can find your best university by taking our free UK University Quiz Match.

 

Need to speak to an advisor about studying in the UK? Check our Services webpage to see what the best available options are for your needs. 

 

Top 5 Reasons to Study in the UK | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

When I first announced my plans to come to the UK for university, the general consensus from my family and friends in the US was that they were supportive, but also confused. The idea of me going so far away for school shocked people for many reasons, and I found myself getting the question “but why England?” constantly. Despite the mixed reactions I received, I wouldn’t change anything about my decision to come to University of Sheffield, and here’s why.

 

1. It’s cheaper! (I’m not kidding)

If you’re reading this from the US, especially if you’re a high school student, you know how expensive university in the US can really be. When you think about people who go abroad for school, generally you think about how expensive it must be, but I chose University of Sheffield partially because of how affordable it is! The length of a normal bachelors course in the UK is 3 years, rather than 4 which is a whole year less of tuition! In addition, my tuition in the UK is £19,000/year ($21,000 USD). I ended up getting a merit scholarship from the school so I am only paying £8,800/year ($12,000 USD) for 3 years, which, in my opinion, is incredible considering that going out of state for university in the US generally costs more than $12,000/year.

 

2. You study what you want and ONLY what you want

One of the most refreshing things about the UK education system was that I was finally free from required subjects. Now, of course, there are still mandatory classes within the departments, but the days of taking math, science, and history when all I wanted to do was study philosophy and politics were finally over!

Being at a UK university really allowed me to immerse myself in my selected subjects. While I watched my friends struggle in their required university level physics and algebra classes, I was enjoying the classes I picked for myself, none of which included ANY equations.

 

3. Central location and international community

The UK, being a small island, is an amazing port of travel into Europe and other surrounding areas. Opportunities for travel, and a global perspective were the things that initially prompted me to look abroad for college, and the UK does travel and public transport very well. The train system in the UK is a breath of fresh air for someone who has no interest in driving in England. In addition, domestic and international flights can be found dirt cheap (compared to US prices) and the amazing community of international students allows for meaningful connections and exchanges which ultimately help broaden horizons and build trust and a global community.

 

4. The *aesthetic*

I wouldn’t be true to myself if I didn’t admit that part of why I chose England was the scenery. As a girl from the New Mexico desert, home was a place where greenery was rare and exciting, and rain was almost nonexistent. Because of this, when I arrived in the UK, even small things like seeing fog, forests, moss, etc. made me happy. The whole experience of being a student in England feels like I am permanently living in a cozy autumn movie, which I LOVE. And the green trees, gray skies, and rainy days are all part of that experience.

 

5. A new perspective

There’s nothing like picking up your life and moving to another country where you know no one to give you a new perspective on life. First off, it forces you out of your comfort zone. Everything is a new experience, from grocery shopping to school to trying to understand the man with a thick Yorkshire accent who just said something you couldn’t quite make out. If there’s one thing you can be sure of, choosing to study and/or complete your degree in another country will definitely change you for the better. Your plane ticket comes with a one way ticket to a new lease on life and a new understanding of the world, in my opinion, it’s 100% worth it.

 

Charlotte Flores is a current student at University of Sheffield originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico. She is currently studying BA Politics and Philosophy and plans to graduate in 2022.

 

 

All About Sport in the UK

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Sport (singular, not plural in the UK!) plays a prominent role in British culture. England proudly claims to be the birthplace of football (which the US and a few other countries call soccer), and while ‘the beautiful game’ has certainly earned its title as most popular sport in the UK, there are so many other popular activities to enjoy as a spectator or an athlete.

 

With sports like American football increasing in popularity and Team Great Britain athletes claiming the spotlight in major international sporting events such as the recent Tokyo 2020 Olympics, it’s an exciting time to be a sport-lover in the UK. Keep reading to find out more about some of the most popular sports that you can get involved in across the pond!

 

Most Popular Team Sports in the UK

 

It almost goes without saying that football is by far the most popular national pastime, and for good reason. There’s evidence that football has been played in English schools since the 1500’s, and England is home to the oldest football clubs as well as the world’s oldest competition (the FA Cup was founded in 1871). For this reason, football is deeply embedded in UK culture. A regular season is played from August to May – although international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and European Championships mean that football lovers can get their fix throughout most of the calendar year!

 

However, there are so many other team sports which are hugely popular in the UK and throughout the world. Cricket became popular in the UK in the 17th century and is widely regarded as one of the national sports of England (it was invented here, after all!). It’s a popular recreational and summer sport in England, but if you’re interested in playing competitive cricket, there is no better place to do this than in Yorkshire, one of the historic cricketing counties of England.

 

Then there’s rugby – divided into Rugby Union and Rugby League due to different rules and regulations – which also holds a top spot as one of the most popular team sports in the UK. England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland all have their own national teams, which are collectively known as the Home Nations, and there are plenty of amateur leagues and university leagues to get involved in.

 

Top Individual Sports in the UK

 

Individual sports are also extremely popular in the UK, and there’s plenty of crossover between the most popular sports amongst American and British audiences. Tennis is the largest individual sport in the UK in terms of players and audiences – the world-renowned Wimbledon Championships take place in London each summer and attracts a huge global audience. And with rising stars like recent US Open Champion Emma Raducanu taking centre court by storm, it doesn’t look like tennis is fading from prominence anytime soon.

 

Another top individual sport is athletics (Americans know it as track and field), which has only grown in popularity as more and more successful British athletes step into the spotlight during the Olympics and other major international events.

 

Other individual sports, like golf, cycling and equestrian events also enjoy a large following and huge amount of popularity amongst recreational and competitive athletes alike. Sport lovers really are spoilt for choice in the UK!

 

Studying and playing sport in the UK

 

If you’re a student athlete thinking about studying in the UK, you’re in luck. The British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS – pronounced ‘Bucks’) is the governing body for higher education sport in the United Kingdom and is responsible for organising more than 52 inter-university sports, including all of those mentioned above!

 

Every year, student athletes from around the world come to the UK to earn an internationally recognised degree while also participating in their university BUCS league. One of the top sporting universities in the UK which consistently comes close to the top of the BUCS league table is Leeds Beckett University. The university has established close partnerships with the Premier League Leeds United Football Club, as well as the world-renowned Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Yorkshire Carnegie rugby club. These partnerships provide opportunities for students to receive professional coaching and training while studying a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

 

With shorter degree lengths (3 years for a bachelor’s and 1 year for master’s), UK degrees are especially appealing to American student athletes as a more affordable alternative to traditional 4-year degree programmes in the USA. The UK university schedule also allows for student athletes to maintain a healthy work-life balance (or study-and-train balance)!

 

So if you’re interested in pursuing a degree while playing your sport at a competitive level, there are plenty of options for you! Learn more by visiting the Team Beckett website to arrange a personal application consultation, and check out the latest blogs from American student athletes who have come across to play and study:

 

Vlog – A day in the life of an American football player at Leeds Beckett

Vlog – A day in the life of a tennis player at Leeds Beckett

 

About the author

Christine Pham Keaney is the International Marketing Manager at Leeds Beckett University, one of the top sporting universities in the UK.

 

5 Reasons to Study STEM in the UK

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

From Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin to major scientific discoveries such as penicillin and the structure of DNA, and engineering innovations including the steam locomotive, the jet engine and the World Wide Web, the UK has a long and proud history in science and technology. But why might studying a STEM degree in the UK today be a good option?

 

Here’s 5 reasons why it could be an excellent place for you to study a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics:

 

1.     Quality and style of university education

 

For a relatively small island, the UK really punches above its weight when it comes to academic quality. Our universities consistently feature strongly across a range of rankings, including in the QS Subject Rankings for Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences and Medicine, and Natural Sciences, as well four UK universities placing in the top 10 in the world over-all, and numerous others in the top 100.

 

But rankings are just a small part of the story. UK universities utilize a variety of innovative teaching techniques, designed to encourage independent and critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-motivation – all key qualities when it comes to the STEM fields. With access to practical labs, students will be working on real-world problems with many university programmes being designed with industry collaboration and STEM careers in mind.

 

2.     Research powerhouse

 

If you’re considering a degree in STEM, then access to research is often high on the list of priorities. Universities are at the heart of UK STEM research and our academic staff include some of the world’s most renowned scientists, medics, and engineers. The strength of this research has never been more evident than the work carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic – from epidemiologists advising national and international governments, to developing advanced technologies for rapid testing, as well vaccine development. UK universities were at the forefront of tackling the pandemic, with four UK universities collectively contributing to nearly one-third of all published papers on COVID-19.

 

Many of our university researchers are directly involved teaching so as a student you get to experience their expertise first-hand in your lecturers, seminars and reading materials. Hands on experience of research is also key to studying STEM in the UK with many degrees in this area involving a research project at both undergraduate and graduate level. Additionally some universities offer schemes such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) or the International Research Opportunities Programme (IROP) as a chance to gain first-hand experience of life in a research lab under expert supervision.

 

3.     International outlook and experience

 

Innovations in science and technology do not lend themselves to working in isolation, and what better environment to learn to work collaboratively than one that is internationally diverse. When you study at a university in the UK, you won’t just be gaining a British perspective. The UK university sector is incredibly diverse with over 20% of our students and staff coming from overseas, providing you the opportunity to gain new outlooks from international academics and to tap into fresh thinking from your peers who represent some of the most talented minds from around the world.  The people you’ll meet and the connections you’ll make will become your global network well beyond your university years.

 

UK universities also pride themselves on international collaboration, whether that’s though partnerships, student exchanges or joint research projects, and this cooperation carries through into the wider research landscape. In 2018, 55% of UK publications were the result of international collaboration, compared to the world average of 21%.

 

4.     Specialized (and often shorter!) degrees

 

Mad about mathematics? Eager to be an engineer? Convinced science is for you? Well, the UK lets you dive straight into the subject you love from day without having to continue with the other subjects you don’t like so much. Applying to an undergrad programme in the UK means you apply directly to a major which you will study for the duration of your degree giving you a chance to delve deeper into the subject right from the start. Consequently, in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, Bachelor’s degrees are only three years in duration saving you time and most likely money.

 

Similarly for graduate students, a PhD in the UK is usually carried out in 3-4 years and Master’s degrees are usually only one year in duration allowing you to gain expertise in your field in a much shorter space of time and springboard you into your career….

 

5.     Employability and career options

 

And speaking of careers, taking that leap to study abroad will always look great on your resume but there are added opportunities available to give you a head start in your career with a UK degree. As an international student you are entitled to work off campus and this provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience and build professional networks through internships and placements particularly relevant to your chosen field – and be paid for it!

 

            And if you’re too busy enjoying all the other aspects of university life during your studies, international students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or graduate degree will be able to benefit from two (or three for PhDs) years’ work experience in the UK upon graduation, through the new Graduate Route.

 

 So, there’s some great reasons to start considering the UK as a destination to study a degree in STEM – now it’s just a question of which subject and where! With thousands of degree programmes ranging from the more general such as “Natural Sciences” to super specific like “Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering” and a range of universities across the country, you’re sure to find the right fit for you.

 

About the author

Catherine Eames is the International Student Recruitment Manager at Imperial College London, a global top 10 university and the only UK university to focus entirely on science, engineering, medicine and business. Catherine has been working in UK Higher Education and international student recruitment since 2008 and has been at Imperial College London for nine years.

 

UK and US College Essay Differences

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Your college application essay, what the UK call the “personal statement”, can be a crucial component to being admitted into university. The US college essay and the UK personal statement are very different from each other. It’s important to understand the differences and and what to look out for before submitting your application.

 

Most US college essays require you to select a topic that may be structured around you as a person. From what I’ve seen, most US students tend to submit a creative writing piece of their life that’s emotive and how they overcame a particular situation. It can sometimes be triggering and very dramatic to grab the reader’s attention. In addition, students may be required to write supplemental essays about why you want to study at that school or academic field. Universities may use creative questions which allows the reader to understand their ability to think and engage. If you are applying to a large sum of colleges/universities, this can be very stressful and time consuming.

 

Creating a personal statement for a UK university is a very easy and straightforward process. What they are requiring is not a creative writing piece but more so of an understanding and clear idea of who you are, your academic skills, knowledge of the subject, why you chose the subject you want to study, and why you want to study in the UK.

 

If you are applying through UCAS, you are required to submit one essay with a limit of 4,000 characters, which roughly estimates to a few paragraphs. That’s right… one! This one essay will be sent to each individual university you are applying to, therefore, it’s very important to avoid listing the universities by name. You want to make the essay generalized so it applies to all the courses and universities.

 

Another difference is that they do not require different essay topics to choose from nor do they require supplemental essays. This should save you time when planning out to submit your application.

 

If you’re having a difficult time on how to write the essay, I always give these resources to help them through their journey. UCAS provides so many helpful personal statement resources. These are my favorites below:

 

UCAS Personal Statement Mind Map

UCAS Personal Statement Worksheet*

 

*Two important questions that are missing from this sheet is: ‘Why do you want to study in the UK? Why do you want to be an international student rather than study in your home country? Don’t forget to add these in as this is an essential part of who you are.

 

UCAS also has more helpful resources and inspiration that is worth checking out.

 

How The UK Study Expert Can Help You

 

Looking to find your best match UK university? Lucky for you, the UK Study Expert has taken the guesswork out of figuring out what each university requires with our handy dandy search tool. Or you can find your best university by taking our free UK University Quiz Match. 

 

Need to speak to an advisor about studying in the UK? Check our Services webpage to see what the best available options are for your needs. 

How US Employers Value International Study | UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

As a career coach, I partner with recruiters to help connect qualified students to hiring companies. I’ve had the fantastic personal experience of seeing how beneficial a UK education has been in my own career but how do US employers really view international study and work experience in the hiring process?

 

I recently sat down with Allison Walke and Briana Whitlow, who are both full-time recruiters experienced in hiring students for full-time entry level jobs, to better understand how international experience plays into the hiring process.

 

International Experience on Resumes

 

Having international study and work experience on your resume could be the difference in getting offered an interview or not. Employers always seek applicants with international experience. “Having international experience on your resume is a HUGE bonus. In my opinion, it demonstrates your interest in acquiring global skills and opening your eyes to different ways of life” explains Briana.

 

Allison says, “My international experience in Paris focused on luxury marketing. I took classes on how boutique brands market themselves, and even got to visit some of the brands to see that firsthand. I’m a big believer in tailoring your resume to the specific job you’re applying for. If a study abroad experience lines up well with that particular position, definitely include it.”

 

International Experience in Interviews

 

Always do your homework before an interview. Allison explains, “Prior to any interview, you should do some research on the company and the position – based on the job description, what are the skills they are most looking for in an ideal candidate? If you learned one of those skills through international experience, it’s a great chance to bring it up.”

 

If Your Abroad Experience Doesn’t Seem Relevant to Your Profession…

 

Every study abroad experience tells a story and getting hired into a role is a gauntlet of basically just telling stories. From the stories on your resume to what you say in an interview, it is important to understand how your experiences position yourself for each interview. Briana explains, “there are always transferable skills during a study abroad experience in some way, shape or form that can be connected to a job”.

 

Allison shares, “I was recently interviewing a Physical Therapist who had study abroad experience in Mexico on her resume. She talked about how she was able to learn and practice PT while there and discussed how the opportunity allowed her to become much more comfortable speaking Spanish, especially within the PT setting. This was the perfect time to bring up her international experience, as that’s a skill that not everyone has. It really helped set her apart and made her a more well-rounded candidate in my eyes”.

 

The “Don’ts” When Discussing International Experience

 

When asked about international experience, you should have a thought out, well crafted reply to why you did the experience and how you grew from it. Don’t come to an interview unprepared or worse, make your abroad experience look like an afterthought.

 

Allison says, “I’ve asked students about their experience before and they brush it off or downplay the experience.These kinds of answers make me feel like they just went on the trip for a vacation, which could make me think they are only interested in the job for the culture or perks. Instead, it’s best to talk about the relevant lessons learned [abroad] to show that you’re a serious and diverse candidate.

 

When discussing your international experience, be intentional with how you tell your story and don’t let the employer do the heavy lifting connecting your experience to the job you are applying for. Briana suggests being strategic, “tie it back into the role. Don’t spend too much time on one topic. If you think there are some things you learned during your study abroad experience that could help you in the job, connect the dots”.

 

The Comfort Zone and Soft Skills

 

International experiences show employers you are comfortable being uncomfortable and are willing to learn and grow. Allison shares her own personal experience, “while I was on my study abroad trip to Costa Rica, we had an afternoon in the rainforest where we had the option to go bungee jumping. It truly pushed me out of my comfort zone, and when things get hard, I still sometimes think about the courage it took to do that, and I know I can find that courage again to get through whatever difficult situation is in front of me”.

 

Other elements to bring up from your international experience are your soft skills. Briana says, “having experience in cultural understanding, effective communication, and empathy will help you navigate those partnerships (personally and professionally)”.

 

It’s All About Standing Out

 

Job market competition is at an all time high with the ease of online applications. The key to a successful job search is finding a way to stand out from the crowd. Briana suggests, “highlighting your study abroad experience and one or two key takeaways from this experience. Recruiters and hiring managers like to see the impact of your experience.”

 

She also recommends considering specific questions when preparing for interviews such as: How did your study abroad experience enhance your perspective of business operations? Do other cultures do things that you think would be beneficial to the way we do things in the states?

 

It’s all about standing out and having a uniquely diverse, global experience that can definitely separate you from the applicant pack.

 

Related Article:  “4 Reasons Why Employers Admire UK Degrees on Resumes”. 

 

About the Contributors 

 

Allison Walke did three week-long trips to Montreal, Costa Rica, and Paris. She started her career in training and recruiting after graduating with a business degree from the University of Cincinnati. She loves being the person that extends someone their dream job, and that’s been especially rewarding during this year of uncertainty. When not working, she enjoys traveling to new places (she’s trying to visit all 50 states!) and exploring the latest restaurant in her hometown of Cincinnati.

 

Briana Whitlow studied abroad through the University of Cincinnati College of Business in a Real Estate Markets opportunity in London, England. As a Cleveland native with six years of Human Resources experience, three of those years as a Diversity & Inclusion practitioner, she is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter and sits on the Young Professionals board of Cincinnati Youth Collaborative..

 

About the Writer…

 

Hi! My name is Nadia and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Connect with on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/nadiaibrahim/ or visit me on Etsy as The Career Coach Shop!