HELP! �Where should I study?

US versus UK

Discussion:�I want to know what you think

1. Where are you applying to?
2. What do you about the education systems of both countries?
3. Which do you think has a “better” system?
4. Where do your parents want you to go?

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The two destinations…

UK

US

• A country in Europe
• Made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

• A country mostly located in central North America
• Made up of 50 states

40 times bigger than the UK!

Discussion:�Cultural Stereotypes

What kind of perceptions do you have about the English and the Americans?

Cultural Stereotypes

UK

US

• Very polite
• Sarcastic humour
• Loves tea
• Obsession with the Royal Family

• Friendly people
• Very outspoken about what they stand on

(rights, freedom of speech etc)

• Ignorant
• Obsession with fast food

Higher Education

UK

US

• 2^nd most popular study destination
• Over 160 higher education institutions
• Popular categorizations such as Russell Group, Modern Universities
• 3 years Honours

(Scottish universities – 4 years Honours)

• Major focused subjects
• Opportunity for a “sandwich” year
• May have small bursaries to attract students

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• Most popular study destination
• More than 4,000 colleges and universities
• Popular categorizations such as Ivy Leagues, Liberal Arts Colleges
• 4 years degree
• Liberal curriculum
• Explore your options before choosing on a major
• Many more financial aids open to students

Application process

UK

US

1 CT’s Reference

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1 CT’s Reference

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2 Subject Teacher’s Reference

Additional Admissions Test (if required)

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SAT/ACT (if required)

Application via UCAS

Application via Common/ Coalition App/ Uni-specific portals

4000 characters (3 Personal Statement questions) which is academically-focused

650 words Common App Essays +

Uni-specific Supplements which highlight who you are as an individual

The successful candidate

UK

US

• Very transparent of who is eligible for the program
• UK universities care a lot about how a student can cope and be successful with the academic rigor in their university, therefore:
• Fit is based on the academic profile and motivation for the program of choice

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• Takes a more holistic view in the evaluation
• Diversity and inclusion are important, therefore:
• Schools are looking for students who can thrive not only academically and have the love of learning, but also can contribute back to their community in their unique way

UK

US

UK

US

Should I add extra-curricular activities in my PS/essay?

US versus UK

UK

US

• Don’t try to impress too much. Write your story. Be YOU.
• No academic essays
• Don’t be a joiner - Invest time and effort
• Use anecdotes – storytell!
• You DON’T need a certificate!

How do I search on what fits?

US versus UK

UK

• University website
• Look at entry requirements (eg: LSE Economics)

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• Location

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UK

• Location
• Campus life (inc nightlife via The Tab!)
• Student reviews on Uni Guide (eg: University of Oxford)

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US

Research your schools so you have a great answer for the “Why here?” question

• Find a fit with who you are:
• College List Builder – find how you fit academically
• University website (eg: Harvard)
• Cialfo – check on application history
• CollegeExpress
• Virtual Campus Tours (eg: Campus Reel)

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US

•  Community - student blogs and social media sites where you can get an idea of the campus culture and the student community. (eg: MIT)
• Campus life using Niche (eg: UCLA)

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More Info

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• ECG Website
• UCAS
• CIALFO

Book a consultation with us!