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US & UK University Offers and Options | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Deciding where to pursue higher education is a crucial decision for students, especially when they have offers from universities in different countries. For US students who have received offers from both US and UK universities, it’s important to carefully weigh their options and make an informed decision. One of the key considerations is whether to put a deposit down and accept their US university offer for May 1, while also accepting an offer from a UK university with a conditional offer that they would need to meet in June. Let’s explore the best approach for US students facing this situation.

 

Understand the UK Conditional Offer System

 

In the UK, universities often make conditional offers to students, which means that their offer is contingent upon meeting specific conditions, such as achieving certain grades in their final exams. For US students, this may be different from what they are accustomed to, as US universities typically provide unconditional offers, meaning that students are admitted without any conditions attached.

 

Before making a decision, it’s important for US students to thoroughly understand the UK conditional offer system and carefully review the conditions set by the UK university. They should consider factors such as the likelihood of meeting the conditions and the potential consequences if they fail to meet them.

 

Consider Your Priorities and Goals

 

US students should reflect on their priorities and goals when making a decision between a US and UK university offer. Factors such as academic programs, reputation of the universities, location, career opportunities, and cost of education should be considered.

 

US universities are known for their strong programs in various fields and may offer specialized programs that align with a student’s career goals. On the other hand, UK universities are renowned for their academic excellence and may offer a different educational experience, with a focus on a more specialized curriculum in a shorter time frame.

 

Students should also consider the location of the universities and their preferences for living abroad. Studying in the UK may offer a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to travel and explore Europe, while studying in the US may offer a different lifestyle and cultural experience.

 

Evaluate Financial Considerations

 

Financial considerations play a significant role in decision-making for many students. US and UK universities have different tuition fees, living expenses, and financial aid options. US universities tend to have higher tuition fees and living expenses compared to UK universities. However, financial aid options may vary between universities and students should carefully review the cost of attendance for each university, including tuition, housing, transportation, and other expenses, as well as the availability of scholarships, grants, and loans.

 

US students should also consider the potential impact of currency exchange rates and the cost of living in the UK, as it may fluctuate during their years of study. Creating a budget and evaluating the financial implications of studying in the US versus the UK is crucial in making an informed decision.

 

Manage Deadlines and Keep Communication Open

 

US students who have received offers from both US and UK universities should be mindful of the deadlines for accepting and declining offers. The May 1 deadline is common for US universities, and students should ensure that they submit their acceptance or decline by the designated deadline to secure their spot.

 

For UK universities, the conditional offer typically requires meeting certain conditions by a specified deadline, which is often in June or July. US students should carefully review the conditions and ensure that they can fulfill them on time. It’s crucial to keep communication lines open with both US and UK universities, and inform them about your decision as soon as possible to avoid any misunderstandings or complications.

 

Consider a Strategic Plan

 

If a US student is torn between accepting an offer from a US university for May 1 and meeting the conditional offer from a UK university in June, they may consider deferring their offer or accepting the US offer for May 1 to insure the student meets the UK’s conditional offer. More information on this information is listed here. determining if the student meets the conditions for the UK offer. Some US universities and UK universities may allow students to defer their admission for a year, which gives them more time to make an informed decision and meet the conditions. More information on this can be found here: Dual Offers Dilemma: Strategic Decision-making for US and UK University Offers.

 

Using the GI Bill to Study in the UK | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

If you are a US student who is planning to apply to a university in the UK with the support of the GI Bill, there are several steps you need to take. The GI Bill is a program that provides educational benefits to veterans and their dependents, and it can be used to study at approved institutions in the UK.

 

Here’s what you need to do:

 

  1. Choose an approved institution/degree: The first step is to select a university that is approved by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for GI Bill benefits. The VA maintains a list of approved institutions on its website, so be sure to check that your chosen university is on the list.

    These are the following links:

    https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill-comparison-tool/

    https://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/searchInst.do#content-area

    You can also reach out to their international office to check if the GI Bill is accepted. Not only does the university need to be approved, but the degree approved as well.

  2. Apply to the university: Once you have selected an approved institution, you will need to apply to the university. Follow the application process for international students, and make sure to mention that you are planning to use the GI Bill benefits. You may also need to provide additional documentation to show that you are eligible for the benefits.

  3. Apply for the GI Bill: If you are not already receiving GI Bill benefits, you will need to apply for them. You can do this by visiting the VA website and completing the application process. Be sure to choose the correct GI Bill program based on your eligibility.

  4. Provide documentation to the university: Once your application for the GI Bill benefits has been approved, you will need to provide documentation to the university. This may include a certificate of eligibility or other paperwork from the VA.

  5. Attend orientation: Many universities in the UK offer orientation sessions for international students. Be sure to attend these sessions to learn about the resources available to you and any additional steps you may need to take.

  6. Keep in touch with the VA: Throughout your time at the university, it is important to keep in touch with the VA to ensure that your benefits are being processed correctly. If you experience any issues or have questions, reach out to the VA for assistance.

By following these steps, you can use the GI Bill to study at a university in the UK and pursue your educational goals. Good luck with your application!

 

UCAS: No Changes to Personal Statement | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

UCAS, the organization responsible for managing university applications in the UK, has announced that there will be no changes to the personal statement for the 2024-2025 application cycle. In a recent statement, UCAS stated that they are still in the process of evaluating and assessing potential changes to the personal statement, and will not make any updates until they have completed this process.

 

The personal statement is an important part of the university application process, allowing applicants to showcase their achievements, interests, and suitability for their chosen course. While some have called for changes to the personal statement format, including limiting the number of characters or introducing more structured prompts, UCAS has decided to hold off on making any updates for the time being.

 

In their statement, UCAS explained that they are committed to ensuring that the personal statement remains a fair and effective tool for assessing applicants, and that any changes they make will be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that they do not disadvantage any groups of applicants.

 

While some may be disappointed by the lack of changes to the personal statement, it is important to remember that the statement remains a valuable opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their strengths and suitability for their chosen course. By focusing on presenting a clear and compelling narrative about their experiences and goals, applicants can make the most of this opportunity to impress admissions teams.

 

As UCAS continues to evaluate potential changes to the personal statement, it is important for applicants to stay up-to-date with any updates or announcements. However, for now, the personal statement will remain a key part of the application process, and applicants should focus on presenting their best selves in their statement to stand out to admissions teams.

Transfer from US College to UK University | UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

If you’ve attended community college or a university in the US, and have obtained, or are about to obtain an associate’s degree, you might be wondering if this pathway will hold any weight on your application, and if your credits will be transferred toward your UK degree. In this article, we break down how college credits are viewed in the UK, the expectations of applying with college credits or an associate’s degree, and the application process.

 

How an Associate’s Degree Helps Your Application

 

Most universities are happy to take associate’s degrees in place of entry requirements to get into their programs. You can refer to our article on US entry requirements on what is typically required to apply to UK universities coming from high school.  This means that instead of needing AP exams or the SAT/ACT, you can use a year’s worth of college classes or your associate’s degree instead.

 

For some specialty programs, universities do reserve the right to ask for specific classes on top of your associate’s degree. For example, if you are applying for STEM subjects, they may request specific science classes to ensure that you have a level knowledge in science before admitted. In most cases, your college classes or associate’s degree will suffice in place of exams, especially if you’ve taken classes related to the program you are applying for.

 

Will Credits from an Associate’s Degree Transfer to a UK degree?

 

The short answer to this question is: it depends on the university and the types of classes you have taken.

 

To fully grasp the transfer process in the UK, it’s crucial to understand how it differs from the US system. In the US, when a student wishes to transfer from one university to another, the admissions office will review their academic history and take into account the number of classes or credits they’ve completed. These credits will then transfer over to the new university, regardless of the amount, and will be factored into the student’s schedule. Whether the student starts in September or January, they can continue on with their studies, taking available courses as necessary.

 

This process does NOT apply to UK universities.

 

The UK’s credit system differs from that of the US in several key ways. Unlike in the US, where students can transfer credits between universities, UK universities have a set curriculum of classes at a certain time of the year that students must complete to earn their degree. Additionally, UK universities do not have general education requirements, and most degrees are completed within three years. This means that it is not possible for students to transfer mid-year with a set number of credits and be admitted directly into a degree program. If a student has completed only a few classes or up to 1.5 years of education, they are generally not eligible to transfer any credits. Instead, their admission to the university would be seen as an opportunity to begin their studies anew.

 

In the UK, transferring with an associate’s degree is possible, but only if certain conditions are met. Typically, if a student wants to transfer into Year 2 of a UK university program, they must have completed relevant classes that relate to their chosen program of study. Unlike in the US, UK universities tend to focus more on specialized courses that are directly related to a student’s major. Therefore, if a student has taken a significant number of classes that are applicable to their chosen program, they may have a good chance of having those credits transferred. In most cases, students would need to have at least two years’ worth of credits before transferring, especially if they are applying for a three-year degree program. This is referred to as “Year 2 Entry” in the UK system.

 

Some universities are more likely to consider starting a student at Year 2 Entry. Typically, the higher ranked universities are less likely to start students at Year 2, however, this is decided on a case-by-case basis by the admissions department.

 

What is Year 2 Entry, exactly?

 

The typical entry point for most students is called Year 1 Entry. This would be where your incoming freshman start their studies.

 

Therefore, Year 2 Entry is just as it sounds: you’d be starting your studies in the second year of the program. If you can demonstrate that you have fulfilled the requirements for Year 1 with the classes you have taken from your associate’s, then you will be considered for Year 2 Entry. This is why admissions will be looking to see what classes you have taken in your associate’s degree, and if they relate to the program you are applying to.

 

Adding Year 2 Entry to Your UCAS Application

 

It’s really very simple to be considered for Year 2 Entry at your UK university choices! When adding your university choices to the UCAS application, you’ll come across the question of ‘Point of entry.’

 

This is where you will mark that you’re looking for Year 2 Entry, and will alert your university choices’ admissions teams as such.

 

As you can see, Year 3 Entry is also an option, but very rare to be granted to students. The other entry points are for more speciality programs.

 

If you’re wondering if you have enough classes in the subject to go into Year 2, most universities will be able to provide an assessment for you before applying. You can contact them directly on our university search pages by clicking “Contact University”.

 

We also have advisors who can access your profile to give you the best chances of getting into your dream UK university!

 

Ultimately, having your credits transferred to over to the UK is decided on a case-by-case basis by admissions departments, but is surely worth a try, given the very cheap application fees! It doesn’t hurt to try, right?

 

Overall, an associate’s degree is beneficial towards your UCAS application, and might even grant you the ability to start at Year 2.

 

Study Arts in the UK: Affordable Degrees | UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

 

Are you or your students interested in earning a degree in the arts? Last week, The UK Study Expert hosted a webinar along with 5 top UK arts universities discussing why earning your art degree in the UK compared to the US is a far better investment and choice. We discussed the UK’s growing economy, cost differences, graduate employability and more.

 

The following universities were represented:

 

Falmouth University

Goldsmiths University of London

Leeds Arts University

Arts University Bournemouth

Ravensbourne University

 

Below, we break down why studying arts in the UK as an American can provide many benefits:

 

1. Enhance your artistic skills and knowledge:

The UK is renowned for its arts education, and studying here can help you develop your artistic skills and knowledge. You can learn from renowned artists and scholars, participate in workshops, and gain hands-on experience through internships and other practical opportunities.

 

2. Three year bachelor’s degrees:

These represented arts universities are based in England, therefore, their degrees are only 3 years long. Students are able to specialize in their declared subject from day 1 and are not required to take any general education classes. This allows the student to save an additional year of expenses, advance their career quicker, and allows them to specialize in the subject they are most passionate in.

 

3. Affordable and competitive compared to US universities:

The average tuition to study at an US arts university can range from $40,000 to $55,000 per year. Studying in the UK is a fraction of the price. The average cost of tuition from the following represented universities is $21,000 per year, plus it is a three year bachelor’s degree, which saves a student an additional year of tuition and living expenses.

 

4. Expand your career prospects:

Studying arts in the UK can open up many career opportunities, both in the UK and around the world. The creative economy contributed £116 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy in 2019, greater than the aerospace, automotive, life sciences, oil, and gas sectors combined. Students who wish to stay in the UK after they graduate, can apply for the Graduate Route Visa, which allows students to work for up to two years after they graduate. Students have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, showcase your work in exhibitions, and gain exposure to different artistic fields and disciplines.

 

5. Exposure to different cultural perspectives:

Studying in the UK can provide you with a unique opportunity to experience a new culture and broaden your worldview. You will have the chance to interact with people from different backgrounds, learn about their perspectives, and gain a deeper understanding of their values and traditions.

 

6. Study abroad experience:

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, and the UK offers an excellent opportunity for American students to live and study in a foreign country. You can improve your language skills, gain independence, and develop cultural competencies that can benefit you throughout your life.

 

Overall, studying arts in the UK as an American can provide a unique and rewarding experience that can help students grow both personally and professionally.

 

Are you interested in finding the right UK university match? Take our free UK University Quiz and discover your top 5 best UK university matches!

 

UK Personal Statement: Student Guide | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

American students are used to writing personal statements (a.k.a. college essays) that are full of narrative and personal hardships. This is a common theme in US college essays due to the competitiveness of US university admissions, as it helps students stand out from the pool of applicants. Sometimes, students are even encouraged to write an essay that will make an admissions board get emotional or even cry. Oh, the drama of it all!

 

Well, the UK admissions system and their personal statements couldn’t be more different! The UK admissions system primarily focuses on your academics, and your knowledge in the subject you are applying to, rather than you being a well-rounded student flourishing in academics, clubs, extra-curriculars, etc. That’s why UK personal statements are centered around showing why you are a good fit for the program, much like a professional cover letter to a job opening. UK statements are to the point, clear, concise and focus on the subject and factual information, such as your accomplishments. You might find writing a UK personal statement to be a little dry – which surprisingly means you’re doing it right!

 

? Need help with your UCAS application? Get our UCAS Guide for $27

 

Outline for your Personal Statement (aka College Essay)

There is no ‘one way’ to write a personal statement, but to begin, you want the focus to be around the subject you are interested in pursuing to study and why. NOT the university or universities, specifically. It’s important to inform the reader of your ambition, interests, and intellect in the field. If you are applying to different subjects that aren’t related, you want to make sure that you incorporate the subjects into the essay cohesively.

 

Here is a general outline that might help:

 

  • Intro: Talk about what you are applying for, why you want to study that subject, and what inspires you about the subject.

  • 2nd Paragraph: Talk about your academic history and any classes/projects you undertook that are related to the subject you’re applying for. How are you as a student? What makes you ready to study the subject at university level?

  • 3rd Paragraph: Talk about any work experience, internships, or volunteering you’ve done that is related to the subject you’re applying for.

  • 4th paragraph: Explain why you want to study this subject in the UK. Why do you want to attend university in the UK?

  • Conclusion: Talk about your future educational and career goals.

 

It’s important to note that if you are applying to an English literature program, for example, you might bring up authors that inspire you. Or, if you are wanting to study mathematics, who are your favorite mathematicians?

Play around with the outline above, but remember to keep it centered on the subject you are applying for, while also showcasing your personal accomplishments.

 

 

How Many Personal Statements Do I Have to Write? 

Students can only apply to up to 5 UK universities but only one personal statement can be submitted. Your personal statement will be sent directly to each university you have applied to, via the UCAS application. Therefore, it’s best to apply to the same program at all universities (or, at least, similar programs).

 

 

How Long Does the Personal Statement Need to Be? 

You’ll be applying through UCAS, so there is a character limit you must abide by. Your statement cannot exceed 4,000 characters with spaces.

 

Further Information on Statements

Undergrad students can visit the UCAS website for more info on what’s needed in your statement, and even use some of the statement builder tools provided there.

 

Need help figuring out your UCAS application? Check out our step-by-step UCAS Guide! Get the UCAS Guide for $27

 

About the Author:

Ashley Jeanson is an international education expert with over 9 years of experience in the field. She’s worked for a mixture of study abroad providers, universities in the US and the UK, and third-party providers, mostly specializing in helping American students attend UK universities. In her spare time, she travels the globe and is eternally in search of the best cup of coffee. 

Studying Esports in the UK

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

The UK has had a long history of being a culturally important center for both sports and the games industry, and esports serves as a point in history where these two historical strengths are being brought into alignment. It is the home of both professional esports teams (Excel and Fnatic) and grassroot organizations such as the NUEL (National University Esports League) and NSE (National Student Esports) as well as events such as ESL UK, Gfinity, and Epic.LAN.

 

Many technology and service providers are contributing to a growing industry that UK esports courses are increasingly serving as routes to careers in the esports industry. The UK esports sector has grown at an annual average rate of 8.5% between 2016 and 2019, and the sector supported over 1,200 jobs in 2019 representing just under 8% of the global market. With major global esports event potentially generating 238 full-time equivalents (FTEs) of employment and £12 million pounds in GVA for the UK economy (UKIE, 2019), it is becoming an increasingly attractive context in which to study esports in the West.

 

While America is known for its strong and pervasive sporting culture, the UK has recently become a burgeoning point for the European esports scene and now acts as a global bridge to European scenes and events. Academically, the focus of courses in the UK is more varied and considers more of the general context than just the business and collegiate athleticism of esports. In terms of production, esports are still finding their feet in terms of the broadcasting frame they have adopted. Students would benefit from understanding the ways in which this might differ from the dominant American sports broadcast frame.

 

American students might consider the UK as an excellent chance to study abroad in the UK system which provide modules (or classes) that consider a granular but highly interdisciplinary context for esports. Falmouth University’s Games Academy is a world class school for learning about games and esports and is one of the few esports courses in Europe situated within a department dedicated to games and computing teaching and research. Our aim is to focus on how esports students can work with pre-existing grassroots organizations within and outside of the University. Beyond esports, the course focuses on the practical and technical production skills for live-streaming in other contexts such as data science, new media branding, as well as marketing and financial management. It is anticipated that the course will serve to be at the forefront of how live-streaming might inform the practice of game developers, entertainers, media producers and whatever else the future holds.

 

Rory Summerley is a games studies researcher at Falmouth University who has written and lectured on a diverse range of games-related topics. He has previously worked as a games critic, game design consultant and performance artist and his research interests include e-sports, game fiction and parody.

AP Exam Guide for University Admission | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

If you’ve been researching US entry requirements for UK universities, you may have noticed many UK universities require AP exams for admission. How strict are they when it comes to these exams? What if your school doesn’t offer these exams? What should you do?

 

How AP Exams are Viewed in the UK

We have to say it:  AP exams are still, by far, the best way to meet entry requirements for UK Universities. This is because universities view AP exams as an appropriate equivalent to a UK exam called the A-Level. Both AP exams and A-Levels are subject-based exams; thus, the UK sees AP exams as a fairly seamless substitute.

 

However, let’s break down all the ways you can still meet requirements to gain entry at UK universities without AP exams:

 

Meet with Your School’s College Counselor

If your school doesn’t offer AP’s and you have a dream school in mind, first ask your college counselor if he/she had students apply to that university. They may have had experience with students applying to that university or might know the UK representative for the university. If they haven’t had students apply to that university, your counselor may be able to speak to the university on your behalf to see if the university is open to reviewing your school’s curriculum.

 

Apply to UK Universities That Do Not Require AP Exams

First, let’s start with the easiest thing to do: apply to UK universities that only require the SAT or ACT. There is a long list of universities that only need to see the SAT or ACT, and even a handful of universities that have gone completely test optional! Generally, if your GPA is 3.0 and above, these test optional universities will consider your application without the need for tests (please note this also depends on the program). In addition to this, UK universities also look at IB exams, as part of an International Baccalaureate, if your high school happens to offer this.

 

Take Honours or Dual Enrollment/College Classes

Since Covid derailed the entire exam system, universities have become more understanding with ways to assess a student’s application. Depending on the university, honours classes and dual enrollment/college classes can be considered in place of AP exams. Especially when it comes to dual enrollment/college classes, the more credits you have, the better! If you have at least a year of college credits (about 30 credits), you may be able to forgo exams completely, depending on the university. If you have an associate’s degree, it’s more likely that you won’t need exams.

 

Self-Study for an AP Exam

If the university you are applying for won’t budge on their need for AP exams and you still want to apply, there is a way to sign up for an AP exam without your high school offering them. Please read this article on the Collegeboard website to find out how. Self-studying for an AP exam is obviously not the ideal way to take such a comprehensive exam, but still doable if you’re very ambitious.

 

Use Our Search Tool

You might be asking yourself: how do I find out which universities take tests vs. honours classes vs. college classes? Let us help you narrow it down! Go to our Undergraduate Universities page and use our search tool to see which universities are the best fit for you. Or you can use our UK University Match Quiz.

 

 

About the Author:

Ashley Jeanson is an international education expert with over 9 years of experience in the field. She’s worked for a mixture of study abroad providers, universities in the US and the UK, and third-party providers, mostly specializing in helping American students attend UK universities. In her spare time, she travels the globe and is eternally in search of the best cup of coffee. 

UK University Entry Requirements | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

If you’ve been confused by entry requirements listed on UK university websites, then you’ve come to the right place. We know the grading system, and all this talk of A-Levels, looks and sounds like a foreign language. Have no fear – the UK Study Expert is here to simplify UK entry requirements for you.

 

First, what you need to know is each university has a set of entry requirements based off of American exams and GPAs, therefore, you won’t be going off of UK requirements at all! These US requirements are usually buried somewhere deep on the university’s website. In this article, we are going to go over the general requirements you need to get into UK universities for both graduate and undergraduate programs.

 

Graduate Degree Program Requirements

Let’s begin with the easiest requirements to break down: Graduate (Master’s) Degree requirements. You’ll be happy to find out that Graduate degrees in the UK do not need the GRE (what a sigh of relief)! UK universities will be looking at your GPA as the main entry requirement for their programs.

 

Generally, if you have a 3.0 and above, you’re in a really good spot for most UK universities. Of course, the higher your GPA, the better, but generally UK universities are more lenient towards GPA than their US counterparts.

 

Students who have a 2.5 GPA and above still have a good list of universities to choose from.

 

Under 2.5 is definitely doable, but the lower you go, the more of a case-by-case situation it will be when admissions is deciding on your application (work experience also comes into play, of course).

 

Besides GPA, certain specialty programs may ask for portfolios or entrance exams, but this is not the norm for most graduate programs. If anything extra is needed beyond a student’s GPA, it will be clearly stated on the university’s program page.

 

You can take the quiz on our website to see a list of your best matches based off of your GPA.

 

Undergraduate Degree Program Requirements

Undergraduate Degree requirements are slightly more complex, and vary depending on the university you are applying to.

 

The best exam to boost your UK application is the AP exam. The more AP exams with high scores you have, the better. If you are looking to study at prestigious universities such as University of Oxford, Cambridge University, Imperial College London, University College London, University of Edinburgh, etc., it is a main component for admission in a student’s application. This is due to the UK education system and A-Level qualifications. The closest equivalent to this in the US is AP exams, which is why this is a hard requirement and universities will not provide any substitutions or flexibility. The IB (International Baccalaureate) curriculum is also highly considered.

 

if you don’t have AP exams, there’s also plenty of other high-ranked, well-known universities that offer flexible requirements to choose from!

 

Since COVID and universities moving away from standardized testing, many UK universities have followed suit and have implemented a new test-flexible approach. The ‘main formula’ most universities are looking for is:

 

Ex. 3.0 GPA + (SAT or ACT or AP exams with a good score)

 

However, we have been finding that more universities are taking different combinations of exams and honours classes or dual enrollment classes in place of the ‘main formula.’

Some universities ask for less/more exams, and some universities will be fine with lower GPAs, while some will require higher GPAs. There are even a growing number of universities that have gone test optional!

 

Furthermore, if you have an associate’s degree, this will also be considered in place of exams at most universities, just note that your credits may not transfer.

 

As you can see, there are so many ways to fulfill requirements for UK universities! To make this much easier on you, we have provided this quiz on our website to compile a list of your best university matches based off of your GPA and test scores.

 

Foundation Programs and Extended Degrees

 

For undergraduate students who don’t quite meet the mark on GPA and test requirements, there is an option to do a foundation program before your undergraduate program. These are also sometimes called extended degrees. This will add an extra year prior to starting your undergraduate degree, and entry requirements are usually pretty minimal for most foundation programs – a lower GPA and test scores is more readily accepted.

 

To find out if a Foundation degree is the right option for you, you can read our article Should You Consider a Foundation Degree.

 

The UK Study Expert Search Tool and Quiz Can Help You

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.

 

 

Graduate Route Visa: Work in the UK | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

Have you ever wondered about staying and working after studying your degree in the UK?

On 1 July 2021, the UK Government launched a graduate visa route to allow international students on a student visa to remain living and working in the UK after they graduate. Graduates do not need to work in the field related to their degree, allowing for great flexibility for graduates to gain work experience. Students can apply after completing their undergraduate or graduate (postgraduate) degree and can work in the UK for up to two years.

 

Therefore, if you’re an international student studying in the UK and are hoping to stay in the UK longer to gain employment, this is your chance!

 

Graduate Route Visa – Application Process

You can only apply for the Graduate visa from inside the UK while your Tier 4/Student visa is still valid. We recommend contacting your university’s immigration officer before you graduate to prepare you for the process.

 

Once you have successfully completed your degree and your university has informed the Home Office, you will need to have successfully completed your current course/degree (i.e. been notified of your official award) and your university will need to have reported your successful completion to the Home Office before you can apply. Once your status is processed by your university, your university will update your immigration record.

 

The current graduate visa application fee is £715 + the healthcare surcharge, which is usually £624 per year you will be in the UK.

 

Once you’ve applied and provided all necessary documents, it can take up to 8 weeks to get a decision on your visa. You will be able to continue living in the UK under the conditions of your Tier 4/Student visa until an outcome is received. You cannot travel outside of the UK while your Graduate visa application is pending.

 

Here is the link where you can apply for the Graduate visa: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/apply

Here is the link to the documents you will need to apply: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/documents-youll-need-to-apply

 

After Getting Your Graduate Visa 

After your Graduate visa is approved, you are free to search for work, work in most jobs, be self-employed, and travel in and out of the UK. As noted above, your Graduate visa will last for 2 years, but note that it cannot be extended. At this point, if you want to remain in the UK, you might be able to switch to another visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, or Tier 2 Visa (if a job will sponsor you).

 

Did you know that US visitors will need to apply for an ETA to visit the UK? Check out our article here. 

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. 

 

About the Author:

Ashley Jeanson is an international education expert with over 9 years of experience in the field. She’s worked for a mixture of study abroad providers, universities in the US and the UK, and third-party providers, mostly specializing in helping American students attend UK universities. In her spare time, she travels the globe and is eternally in search of the best cup of coffee. 

Guide: Are UK Universities Accredited? | The UK Study Expert

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

A question we get a lot from American students is if UK universities are accredited, which is really a fancy way of asking: are UK degrees viable and accepted in the United States?

 

You’ll be happy to know the answer is yes, with a few exceptions for specialty fields.

 

American students are most familiar with Regional Accreditation Organizations in the United States. Of course, UK universities are not accredited by these US organizations, but by their own accreditation system in the UK, called the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). According to QAA’s website and in their words, they are an “independent charity working to benefit students and higher education, and one of the world’s experts in quality assurance. We are trusted by higher education providers and regulatory bodies to maintain and enhance quality and standards. We work with governments, agencies and institutions globally to benefit UK higher education and its international reputation.”

 

Universities are also accredited through external examiners, who are drawn from a pool of academic staff from other institutions, as well as business and industry professionals. These examiners routinely assess the quality of a university’s education as compared with other universities, as well as observing assessment processes to make sure things are up to standard.

 

These rigorous accreditation practices make the UK one of the most trusted and accepted degrees around the globe. Because of this, the US recognizes UK degrees for both further education and employment in the US.

 

As always, there are some exceptions to the rule. For some specialty fields in the US, you may have to take extra exams or classes upon your return to practice in your field.

 

Here are examples of degrees where extra accreditation may be needed to use a UK degree in the USA:

 

  • Nursing

  • Teaching Credentials (may not transfer over depending on the state)

  • Medicine

  • Social Work

  • Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

  • Law (may not be able to sit the bar exam depending on the state)

  • Architecture

  • Psychology at the PhD level (if you are wanting to become licensed as a therapist)

 

Disclaimer: We always recommend doing your own independent research and asking experts in your field about the transferability of UK degrees. State licensing and accreditation boards in the US are especially good sources to ask about this. 

 

Please note that the majority of UK degrees will not need extra accreditation for use in the US. This includes humanities, science, mathematics, business, and a plethora of other degrees! When in doubt, The UK Study Expert can help point you in the right direction about which degrees may need more accreditation.

 

If you want to ensure that you are making the right decision in the application process, our advisors can support you throughout the process and help you get into your dream UK university!

 

About the Author:

Ashley Jeanson is an international education expert with over 9 years of experience in the field. She’s worked for a mixture of study abroad providers, universities in the US and the UK, and third-party providers, mostly specializing in helping American students attend UK universities. In her spare time, she travels the globe and is eternally in search of the best cup of coffee. 

Visiting Wales and Welsh Scholarships

Posted on by Jackie Christopher

This past month, I had the privilege and opportunity to attend the Welsh Counselor Tour hosted by Study in Wales. Roughly 30 US college counselors were invited to explore a variety of Welsh universities throughout Wales.

 

Study in Wales is the sector of Global Wales that champion’s the promotion of Welsh universities to international students and high school counselors. These organizations advocate the variety of Welsh universities and funding opportunities to students and counselors that may have never had the consideration or opportunity in the past.

 

During the Study in Wales tour, we were split into two groups to visit the following universities:

Aberystwyth University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff University, University of Wales Trinity St. David, Wrexham Glyndwr University, University of South Wales, Swansea University and Bangor University.

 

Not only did we tour the campuses, Study in Wales organized a special evening reception at the Royal Welsh College of Drama and Music and a Cultural Day to explore Wales and learn more about the Welsh language, culture and heritage. We stayed at the beautiful Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, and visited Harlech Castle, and Portmeirion where we had afternoon tea. Our guides, Robert Alexander and Emma Fuller, did a great job of organizing and answering our questions along the way.

Harlech Castle, May 2022

Wales may be small, but they have a variety of university options and degrees that are for every type of student. The cost of living is an attractive feature along with funding opportunities that are offered. Major funding opportunities that Americans should keep their eye on are The Global Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, Global Wales Fulbright Scholarship, Global Wales Gilman Scholarship, and the Aberystwyth University Accommodation Award. In addition, Taith is a Welsh funding opportunity that could be beneficial for a variety of programmes and exchanges. It is not a scholarship but it can support funding for students interested in studying abroad, counselors, teachers, researchers, community colleges and universities.

 

The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship programme offers scholarships worth up to £10,000 – to study a full-time masters programme in Wales. The scholarships are available to students from Vietnam, India, USA, Canada and countries of the European Union. This prestigious scheme is the first scholarship of its kind in Wales and is funded by the Global Wales Programme. The deadline is usually the end of May and to be awarded in September.

 

The Global Wales Fulbright Scholarship covers the first year of any master’s programme offered by a participating Welsh University. The Welsh Government, Global Wales partners, and the Welsh universities have partnered with the Fulbright Commission to provide one master’s degree scholarship to study at one of the participating Welsh Universities, in any field.

 

The Global Wales Gilman Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship programme for high-achieving students in the United States who wish to study in Wales. Award holders receive a study grant of up to $5,000 USD, to be used toward tuition, housing, travel, and related costs for up to one academic year. This award enables outstanding American students of limited financial means to study overseas for up to one academic year as part of their undergraduate studies. Interested students are welcome to contact their campus study abroad office or visit the Gilman Scholarship website. Application opens in August. The deadline runs until early October.

 

One scholarship that is very unique in the sector is the Aberystwyth University Accommodation Award. Aberystwyth University is offering undergraduate and graduate international students free housing on the several accommodation options to choose from. Free accommodation spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.  If there are no free spaces left, you will be sent an offer for a discounted rate in your other hall of choice.

 

Finally, I recommend counselors look into the Taith programme that Wales is running. Taith is an all-Wales international learning exchange programme with a £65 million investment by the Welsh Government. It is focused on promoting international exchanges to support Welsh learners broaden their horizons and instill confidence in their young learners.

 

Here are a few ideas on how US counselors or schools can take advantage of Taith’s funding:

  1. High school, community college and university students could attend an international exchange semester in Wales. There is reciprocal funding available too! Staff who are chaperoning high school students are also eligible for funding.

  2. Teachers and youth workers could teach or counsel Welsh students on academics or mental health support and vice versa.

  3. Research exchange and university collaborations

 

These opportunities are great for supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Students can be funded for as little as two weeks! Funding levels depend on the level of the partnership. To learn more about Taith, you can reach out to one of the team members on their website or you can email Rob from Study in Wales.

 

If none of these scholarships apply to you, don’t forget that all of these Welsh universities accept FAFSA. Students can apply and use federal funding to study in Wales to fund their degree.

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, May 2022

Having studied and completed my Bachelor’s degree at Aberystwyth, I am very familiar with Wales, but attending this tour reignited the love I have for Wales while giving me a deeper understanding of the academics, heritage, and offerings.

 

If you are a student or counselor and are looking for more information about studying in Wales, I recommend connecting to Study in Wales to learn more. You can also check out more information on the universities and blogs on Wales on our website.