Get Confident Advising on UK Admissions – Start the Year Prepared!

$250 registration (regularly $450) · Use code NEWYEAR at checkout

Available January 6–9

UK Admissions Academy 2026 – January 20 & 21, 2026

Become the Counselor Families Trust for UK Admissions

A 2-day virtual academy that gives US counselors the confidence, frameworks and direct university access to guide students through UK admissions-correctly

Trusted by 120+ counselors nationwide

January 20 & 21, 2026 | 11 AM – 6 PM EST | 8 AM – 3 PM PST

Your Students Are Already Asking About UK Universities

Are You Ready to Answer?

The Reality Check:

Record growth: US applications to UK up 14% in 2025

Average savings: $50,000-$100,000 vs US private colleges

3-Year UK degrees: Save a year, gain a career head start

Access to affordable European travel during term breaks

What Happens When You DON'T Know UK Admissions:

❌ Students miss out on opportunities they don’t even know exist

❌ You can’t provide comprehensive guidance on all educational pathways

❌ Families overlook potentially better-fit and more affordable options

❌ Students make college decisions without seeing the full picture

What Happens When You MASTER UK Admissions:

✅ Present students with their complete range of educational options

✅ Confidently guide families through international opportunities

✅ Help students discover prestigious programs at significant savings

✅ Become the counselor who covers every detail

Hosted by

What You'll Gain at UK Admissions Academy 2026

Complete UK Admissions Mastery

Master the UCAS Application Process: Navigate applications, personal statements, and reference letters with confidence
Scholarship & Financing Expertise: Learn about cost of attendance and funding
University Selection Strategy: Match students to the right institutions based on their goals and profile

Exclusive Access & Resources

Live & On-Demand Sessions: Expert-led training you can revisit anytime (30-day access except the UCAS session, due to UCAS’s new policy.)
Downloadable Templates & Resources: Ready-to-use materials that save you hours of prep time
Direct University Access: Learn from actual UK admissions officers and build relationships

Professional Network & Growth

Build a Global Network: Connect with UK university representatives
Insider Knowledge: Get the latest admissions trends and requirements straight from the source
Competitive Advantage: Become a leading college counselor who truly understands the UK admissions systems

Featured Academic Presenters

ADDITIONAL PARTICIPATING UNIVERSITIES

Learn From the Best in UK Admissions

Featured Speakers

Jackie Christopher

Founder

The UK Study Expert

An expert in UK admissions for US students, Jackie has helped hundreds of students navigate the UK application process and has trained counselors nationwide.

Becka Horsley

Customer Success Partner

UCAS

Direct from UCAS headquarters, Becka brings insider knowledge of the UK application system that processes over 700,000 applications annually

More speakers to be announced

⏰ Limited to 500 Counselors | Early Bird Closes December 1st

Why This Puts You Light Years Ahead of Most US Counselors

The Professional Reality: Most US counselors have limited knowledge about UK admissions. You’re about to become the expert.

Immediate Professional Advantages:

Enhanced Student Services:

Become the counselor students trust for comprehensive guidance
Provide expert advice on international educational pathways
Support high-achieving students exploring global opportunities

Expertise Expansion:

Master UCAS – the system most US counselors find confusing
Understand UK grading systems and how they translate
Navigate visa requirements with confidence

Professional Growth:

Expand your ability to serve diverse student interests
Build reputation as a knowledgeable international education resource
Position yourself as a forward-thinking education professional

🚨 EARLY BIRD ENDS SOON: Save $150 - Only $300 (Regular Price $450)

What You’ll Be Able to Do After These Two Days

After two days at UK Admissions Academy, you’ll leave with the confidence to quickly identify which students are a strong fit for UK universities, and which aren’t. You’ll be able to clearly explain UCAS timelines, Clearing, and offers to both students and families, answer parent questions about cost, ROI, and outcomes without hesitation, and move beyond “brand-name” schools when matching students to the right institutions. You’ll also understand grading differences, entry requirements, and the practical next steps needed to support students through the UK admissions process.

Below is the full agenda showing how we’ll cover each of these areas. You can expand any session to see the details.

UK Admissions Academy Schedule

11:00 AM(EST) / 8:00 AM(PST)

Main Stage - Welcome

Jackie Christopher

Founder, The UK Study Expert

Jackie Christopher from The UK Study Expert introduces our second annual UK Admissions Academy, outlining what to expect, how to navigate the platform, and the key benefits of participating in this year’s conference.

11:30 AM(EST) / 8:30 AM(PST)

Academic Highlight: Imperial College London - Materials Science & Nantotechnology

Dr. Ben Almquist
Associate Professor and Director of Imperial’s BSc in Biomedical Technology Ventures
Imperial College London

Session: Pilfering Patient Pharmacies – Using Bioinspiration to Revolutionise Wound Repair

In this talk, Dr Almquist will discuss our efforts to heal wounds by combining insights from materials science, nanotechnology, and biology. He will cover our development of a new form of controlled drug delivery based on the bioinspired use of cellular traction forces to locally active therapeutics harvested directly from our bodies. This strategy opens up new possibilities for cell-selective therapeutic activation and other disruptive translational benefits. Come along and learn how we’ve developed this high risk, blue-skies idea into an award winning startup company.

12:00 PM(EST) / 9:00 AM(PST)

STEM programs in the UK

Discover how UK universities deliver world-class STEM education with cutting-edge facilities, industry partnerships, and research opportunities. This session will highlight distinctive programs, admissions expectations, and how U.S. students can position themselves for success in competitive STEM fields

UK Degree Pathways and Entry Requirements Decoded

UK degrees are structured differently than U.S. programs, with earlier specialization and unique entry requirements. This session breaks down degree pathways, subject prerequisites, and the nuances of entry requirements so counselors can confidently guide students through the process.

London Universities: Navigating the Capital's Academic Landscape

London offers one of the most dynamic and diverse academic hubs in the world. This session explores the variety of universities across the city—from research-intensive institutions to specialized colleges—helping counselors understand how students can find their best fit in the UK’s capital.

1:00 PM(EST) / 10:00 AM(PST)

Lunch & Learn - University Spotlights

2:00 PM(EST) / 11:00AM (PST)

Academic Highlight: BIMM University - Performer’s College

Kieran Jae
Deputy course leader/ Principal lecturer of Musical theatre
BIMM University

Topic: Introduction to Performers College & Bimm University

Session: Overview of BIMM University and Performers College offer, our core values, and the key advantages of completing your performance training in the UK.

2:30 PM(EST) / 11:30AM (PST)

Academic Highlight: University of Greenwich - Media & Communications

Dr. JC Kristensen / Dr. Hannah Lammin
Academic Portfolio Lead for Design / Programme Lead for BA Media and Communications

Topic: Critical Creative Practice in Graphic Design, Animation and Media & Communications

Session: In this session, Dr Kristensen and Dr Lammin will explore critical creative education as designed and taught through the graphic design, animation and media and communication programmes in the School of Design and Creative Industries at the University of Greenwich.

3:00 PM(EST) / 12:00 PM(PST)

UCAS application 101: Buzzwords & Back to Basics

UCAS application 101 – New to advising on UCAS applications – or just need a refresher? This session is your go-to guide for getting it right! We’ll walk through the UCAS form step-by-step, highlighting the sections where slip-ups happen most (and how to avoid them). Then we’ll jump into the UCAS timeline, zooming in on Clearing, and wrap up with a quick how-to on becoming a Registered Centre and getting your very own UCAS Buzzword.

4:00 PM(EST) / 1:00 PM(PST)

Planning and Preparing Your Student to Apply for University in the UK

In this session, Jackie Christopher — Founder of The UK Study Expert — will walk you through exactly how she supports students during their junior and senior years as they prepare to apply for UK universities. Through real case studies, Jackie will demonstrate the strategies, timelines, and decision-making frameworks she uses to guide students from initial interest to successful UCAS submission. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how to structure support, set expectations, and help students navigate the UK admissions process with confidence.

5:00 PM (EST) / 2:00 PM (PST)

Humanities, Arts, and Creative Programs

The UK is renowned for its strength in the humanities and creative industries. This session highlights standout programs in English, history, philosophy, fine arts, design, film, and more—ideal for U.S. students seeking inspiration in globally respected disciplines.

UK University Life: What Your Students Need to Know

Academics aside, what is daily life like at a UK university? This session will cover campus culture, student accommodation, societies and clubs, and the overall student experience—giving counselors insights they can share with students preparing for study abroad.

UCAS, deadlines, differences from U.S admissions

Admissions deadlines, UCAS, subject-focused applications, and condensed degree structures—there are major differences between the U.S. and UK systems. This session outlines the key contrasts, helping counselors better advise students and families considering a UK degree.

11:00 AM(EST) / 8:00 AM(PST)

Academic Session: University of Kent - Studying Film and Media

Dr James Newton

Lecturer in Media and Film Practice

School of Arts

The Film department at the University of Kent is one of the oldest in the country, and the department has recently added a Media programme to its portfolio of courses. This session highlights the strengths of these programmes and how they combine both practical Filmmaking (and Media making) with theoretical study.

11:30 AM(EST) / 8:30 AM(PST)

Academic Highlight: Falmouth University - Marine & Natural History Photography and Documentary & Editorial Photography

Gretchen Viehmann
Head of Documentary & Editorial Photography
Institute of Photography

Falmouth University specialised in the creative industries. Come and find out about two of our photography degrees: BA (Hons) Marine & Natural History Photography which teaches our students to explore important and powerful ecological and conservation issues and bring them to life with their camera. Combining the rigour of research with the creativity of storytelling, students are exposed to some of the biggest challenges that face people and the planet, while celebrating the beauty of nature. The BA (Hons) Documentary & Editorial Photography teaches students to become visual storytellers using both photography and multimedia. In this photojournalism course, students explore documentary, portraiture, news, sport, music and fashion as well as immersive multimedia narrative photography.

12:00 PM(EST) / 9:00 AM(PST)

Testing, Transcripts & Predicted Grades - What UK universities expect from U.S applicants

From SAT/ACT expectations to APs, IB, and dual enrollment, U.S. applicants bring varied academic profiles. This session decodes what UK universities look for in transcripts and predicted grades, ensuring counselors can help students present strong applications.

Transferring to a UK University: Making the Mid - Course Correction

Can U.S. students transfer into a UK program? Yes—but the process differs significantly from U.S. institutions. This session explains transfer entry routes, credit recognition, and scenarios where moving mid-course makes sense for students seeking a new direction.

Scotland Wales Universities: Hidden Gems and Distinctive Opportunities

Move beyond England and discover the unique advantages of studying in Scotland and Wales. From Scotland’s four-year undergraduate degrees to Wales’ affordability and personalized approach, this session will spotlight opportunities often overlooked by U.S. students and families.

1:00 PM(EST) / 10:00 AM(PST)

Lunch & Learn - University Spotlights

2:00 PM(EST) / 11:00 AM(PST)

UCAS Session: What Do Students Want, and How Do You Get It To Them?

What do your students want, and how do you get it to them? In this session focused on the early stages of your students journey to UK study we will focus on the newly released UCAS ‘Project Next Generation’ report – an engaging look at motivating factors for students considering studying outside the US. As well as deep diving into what students need as part of that research, we will share valuable free UCAS resources to help you guide your students effectively and professionally through every step of the discovery journey.

3:00 PM(EST) / 12:00 PM(PST)

Academic Highlight: King’s College London - Discover the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy at King’s College London

Dr Elisa Cavatorta
[email protected]

Dr Elisa Cavatorta is Vice Dean (International) in the Faculty of Social Science and Public Policy (SSPP). She will outline SSPP’s vision of secure futures for social science graduates, showcasing the Faculty’s strengths in conflict and security, international relations, sustainability and climate, international development, democracy and political economy, social justice, and cutting-edge research methods. She will also highlight SSPP’s approach to building career-ready skills. Dr Cavatorta is an Associate Professor of Economics whose research develops innovative methods for conflict resolution.

3:30 PM(EST) / 12:30 PM(PST)

Student Panel: Hear directly from U.S students currently studying in the UK

4:00 PM(EST) / 1:00 PM(PST)

What's Hot ( and What's Not ) - UK University Subjects for US Students

From business and psychology to law and international relations, some UK subjects are especially popular with U.S. students—while others are less transferable back home. This session highlights current trends, helping counselors match students with the right academic choices.

Overcoming Family Resistance: When Parents Say No to Study Abroad

Parents often raise concerns about safety, cost, or distance when students express interest in studying in the UK. This session equips counselors with strategies, data, and talking points to help families feel confident and supportive of this exciting pathway.

UK Tuition, Living Costs Scholarships & Financial Aid: Real Numbers for Real Planning

Finances are a key factor in every college decision. This session breaks down tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and loan options available to U.S. students in the UK—giving counselors the tools to advise families with realistic financial planning in mind.

5:00 PM(EST) / 2:00 PM(PST)

Closing Party - Q & A Opportunity!

Which Students Should You Send to the UK?

(And Why Their Parents Will Thank You)

Perfect Fit Students:

Academic Profile:

Strong in specific subjects (UK degrees are specialized from day 1)
Self-motivated learners who thrive with independence
Clear career direction (UK system rewards focused students)

Financial Considerations:

Families concerned about US college costs ($200,000+ for private)
Scholarship Options Available
Those seeking ROI on education investment

Personal Characteristics:

Adventurous spirits excited about living abroad
Culturally curious students who want global perspectives
Future global professionals in business, engineering, law, etc.

This may not be a fit if you:

❌ Only advise domestic community college pathways

❌ Are not involved in admissions planning or applications

This academy is ideal if you:

✅ Advise U.S. high school students applying to 4-year colleges

✅ Want to expand international options without guesswork

✅ Are hearing more questions about the UK and Europe

Get Confident Advising on UK Admissions – Start the Year Prepared!

$250 registration (regularly $450) · Use code NEWYEAR at checkout

Available January 6-9

Early Bird Special:

Save $150

But Only If You Act Fast

EARLY BIRD PRICE

$300

Available Until: December 1st, 2025

Seats Remaining: 0 Early Bird spots

Standard Registration

$450

Join counselors nationwide preparing for the 2026-27 admissions

What's Included

✅ Live access to all 12 expert sessions
✅ 30-day access to recorded sessions (except UCAS)
✅ Downloadable templates & resources
✅ Direct access to UK university representatives
✅ Follow-up Q&A sessions

What College Counselors Are Saying

Real Results From Real Counselors

Terry Mady

Founder, Grove Charted University

Insights from The UK Study Expert Conference: A Deep Dive into UK Universities

"The insights I gained from The UK Study Expert Conference completely transformed how I approach international admissions. I now confidently guide families through the UK process and have seen incredible results."

Karen Anne Hott

Founder, Two Bridges College Consulting

The UK wants YOU to study in the UK

"This conference opened my eyes to opportunities I never knew existed for my students. The UK truly wants American students, and now I know exactly how to help them succeed."

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a list of questions fellow counselors have asked before signing up

General Questions

What is the UK Admissions Academy Virtual Conference?

The UK Admissions Academy Virtual Conference is an immersive event designed to help college counselors and educators understand the UK university admissions process. Hosted by The UK Study Expert, the conference features expert speakers, workshops, and resources to support your professional growth.

What is The UK Study Expert?

The UK Study Expert is a digital platform with different services and products designed to assist prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as college counselors, in navigating the application process for degree programs at universities in the United Kingdom.

Why are these universities listed?

The universities featured in this event are trusted partners of The UK Study Expert.

The UK Study Expert is proud to collaborate with these prestigious universities, which are deeply committed to welcoming and supporting international students. These institutions are not only leaders in delivering high-quality education but are also actively seeking talented students from around the globe, making them ideal partners for anyone pursuing a degree in the UK. Their focus on academic excellence and global perspectives ensures a transformative experience for every student.

Conference Sessions

Will the sessions be recorded?

Yes — all sessions will be recorded except the UCAS session, due to UCAS’s new policy.

UCAS sessions can no longer be recorded, but the UCAS representative will be available after the event to answer any follow-up questions or provide clarifications.

Will I have access to the powerpoint presentations?

No, but we will have some presentations available in our Resource Folder that you can reuse to present to your students.

Can I ask questions during the sessions?

Absolutely! Live sessions will include Q&A opportunities with the presenters at the end of each session.

Technical Support

What technology do I need to participate?

You will need a stable internet connection, a computer or tablet, access to a web browser and access to Zoom. Specific platform details will be shared with registrants.

What if I have technical issues during the conference?

Our technical support team will be available throughout the event. You can reach out via the live chat feature or email us at [email protected].

Don't Let Your Students Miss Out on Life-Changing Opportunities This Is Your Moment to Expand Your Expertise

The UK education trend isn't slowing down—it's accelerating. Every day you wait is another day your students might miss discovering educational pathways that could transform their futures. Be the counselor who ensures they see every option before making this life-defining decision.