How to Apply to UK Universities from the US: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Ultimate Guide for US Students Applying to UK Universities
Are you a US student thinking about applying to UK universities from the US? The application process for UK universities and UCAS is very different from the US applications system. At J&J Education our UK admissions consulting service specialises in counselling and support US and international students as they apply to their dream UK schools. From writing your personal statement to selecting courses, here’s our essential information on key information, written by our leading UK admissions counselors for US students
Applying to UK universities as an American student
How do I apply to the UK as an American student?
Studying in the UK is increasing popular for students from the US. Nevertheless, applying to UK universities is very different from making applications to US schools: your application will have to concentrate on your academic interests and aspirations and the course you wish to study. The right course choice is an intrinsic part of your application strategy, unlike with Common App; it will not only affect your competitiveness but also set you on the right path in terms of your studies.
When is the UK application deadline for American students?
he UCAS application deadlines are usually in January for most courses - except for some courses such as medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine, which have earlier deadlines in October, as well as all courses at Oxford and Cambridge. Some universities will begin giving offers from the October deadline, though, so it can be helpful to apply earlier, depending on your school and course.
Can I apply to the UK through Common App?
For some universities you can apply to the UK through Common App but for the majority, no. You must apply through UCAS. Even if you apply through Common App, for those universities that allow it, you should make sure your application is geared in the British academic style, tailored around specific course and in line with what UK schools are looking for and. Top tip: do not try to simply adapt your US/Common App essay for the UK, as the British approach is very different.
What are the US to UK university requirements? Can I apply to the UK without AP grades?
Each UK university sets their own grade requirements and their own conversions for American students applying. There is therefore huge variety between individual schools in AP requirements as well as in how these requirements are enforced. Some UK schools allow you to apply without AP grades but many, including the most competitive schools, will usually require AP results.
UK University Entry Requirements for US Students - what grades do I need to apply?
UK university entry requirements for US students vary between individual schools. In general, though, AP grades, UK schools may look at SAT/ACT results, GPA, teacher references, your academic UCAS essay, writing samples, interviews and more. It’s best to check with individual universities or with a leading UK admissions consulting service for American students like J&J Education. The grade requirements will depend on the precise course you apply to, not just the university and there can be several ways to meet the grade requirements, with a combination of AP and SAT for example.
How do I write my UCAS essay as an American student?
Do not try to adapt a Common App essay or to write a Common App style essay. Applying to the UK as a US student requires a very different approach - writing specific academic essays tailored around a course. Usually students need to read deeply around their subject and then demonstrate academic interest and independent engagement with subject material. You show this through analysis, not just description.
How do I find the best UK admissions consulting services for US students?
Here at J&J Education, our UK admissions consultants specialise in supporting US students applying to the UK, helping them navigate the complexities of the UK admissions process and gear their applications for UK requirements. Find out more about our top UK admissions counselors for US students - we’ve worked with students from around the US and Canada applying to top UK schools, with outstanding results.
