Lana Oconnell
Studying abroad in the United States of America is a popular choice for many students from the UK. In 2022/23, over 10,600 students from the UK enrolled at American universities. The US boasts world-leading tech and academia, and offers a wide range of universities and courses to choose from. However, tuition fees and living costs can be high, and the application process is rigorous, with US universities considering applicants' academic records, extracurricular activities, and leadership positions held. This article will explore the key things to know for English students considering going to university in America.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of English students enrolled at American universities in 2022/23 | 10,600+ |
| Application process | No central body like UCAS; apply to each university separately; costs $50-$100 on average |
| Number of applications | No limit |
| Application types | Early decision, common application, regular application |
| Application requirements | Academic record, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, personal characteristics, English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo), high school transcript, SAT/ACT scores |
| Degree duration | 4-5 years for a bachelor's degree; 2 years for an associate's degree |
| Course structure | Liberal Arts philosophy; students take general education classes in subjects such as science, humanities, languages, maths and English before choosing a major in their sophomore year |
| Entry requirements | Minimum of 5 GCSEs A*-C including English and Maths; post-16 qualifications (A-Levels) for four-year universities; 3 A-Levels or equivalent for more competitive universities; BTEC National Extended Diplomas or other vocational qualifications may be accepted at less competitive universities |
| Advanced placement | Students with qualifications such as Advanced Placement or the International Baccalaureate may be offered entry straight into the sophomore year |
| Tuition fees | Higher at private non-profit institutions like Harvard, Stanford and Yale, but more financial aid opportunities |
| Funding options | Personal savings/family help, grants, scholarships, student and personal loans |
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What You'll Learn
Application process
Applying to a university in a different country can be challenging, but the American college application process is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process for US universities as an English student.
Step 1: Start Early
Give yourself ample time to research the universities and programmes that align with your academic and professional goals. Consider what you want to gain from your time as a student in the US, the subjects you want to study, and how you plan to finance your studies. It is recommended to start this process a year in advance.
Step 2: Choose Your Universities
With thousands of universities in the US, it is crucial to narrow down your options. Pick 3-5 universities that offer the programmes you are interested in and meet your expectations. Consider factors such as location, fees, rankings, and the availability of scholarships.
Step 3: Understand the Requirements
Each university has its own application process and requirements. Familiarize yourself with the necessary documents, standardised tests, and deadlines for each of your chosen universities. Most universities require standardised admissions tests such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, LSAT, TOEFL, or IELTS. Additionally, international students may need to prove their English language proficiency and provide transcripts for credential evaluation.
Step 4: Prepare Your Application
Complete all the necessary steps for each university's application process. This may include writing personal statements, requesting recommendation letters, and submitting the required test scores and documents. US universities value extracurricular activities, so be sure to highlight any activities or leadership roles that support your application.
Step 5: Submit and Follow Up
Submit your applications by the specified deadlines. Universities will review your materials, and they may contact you for interviews or additional information. Stay in touch with the admissions office and be responsive to any requests to increase your chances of a successful application.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa
Once you receive an acceptance letter, the next step is to apply for a student visa. Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements and begin the application process early to avoid any delays. You will typically need to obtain an acceptance letter, apply for the appropriate visa type, and complete the necessary forms and interviews.
The application process for US universities can be demanding, but with careful planning and timely execution, you can increase your chances of securing admission to your dream university in the US.
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Entry requirements
If you are studying for the International Baccalaureate (IB), you may be offered advanced placement, allowing you to start your bachelor's degree in your second year. Students with good, relevant A-Levels may also be awarded advanced placement, although this is unlikely to be equivalent to a full year at most universities.
US universities take a holistic approach when reviewing applications, but grades are still the most crucial part of your application. You will need to provide a copy of your high school transcript, and your test scores (e.g. SAT or ACT) are also important. While many colleges are going test-optional, some still require an SAT or ACT score, especially from international students. Most schools look for students with scores within a specific range, so it is worth checking with your chosen universities to see if your scores fit their requirements.
Extracurricular activities are also an important part of your application, and US universities value leadership positions within these activities. English students applying to US universities may also be required to take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English test to demonstrate English proficiency.
It is recommended that you start planning how you will pay for your tuition fees and living costs early on, as there will be upfront costs such as your student visa and flight costs. While there are scholarships and grants available, your personal circumstances will be taken into account when deciding what financial aid packages will be offered to you.
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Costs and funding
The cost of studying in the US for international students is significantly higher than for domestic students, with tuition fees ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per year, or even between $35,000 and $60,000 per year according to another source. The cost varies depending on the type of degree and institution chosen. For example, a private non-profit four-year college will cost around £33,450 or $26,290 according to another source. Meanwhile, public universities charge international students between $25,000 and $50,000 per year, while private universities range from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.
In addition to tuition fees, there are other costs to consider, such as textbooks and other course materials, accommodation, food, health insurance, visas, and travel. Textbooks and other fees can cost between $500 and $1,000 per year, while health insurance can cost between $700 and $1,000 per year. Living costs in the US are also higher than in the UK, with monthly expenses ranging from $1,070 to $3,400.
However, it's important to note that the "sticker price" or published rate is often higher than the amount students actually pay after receiving financial aid and scholarships. In fact, it is rare for US students to pay the full tuition amount. According to one source, 85% of full-time undergraduate students at four-year universities received some form of financial aid in 2015/16, with a similar percentage (87.3%) reported by another source. The most prestigious universities with the highest sticker prices often offer the most generous funding opportunities. For example, 91% of students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology receive financial aid.
There are various funding options available for international students, including scholarships, grants, assistantships, and work-study schemes. Some universities also operate a "`need-blind`" admission policy, disregarding the financial background of applicants and providing financial support to ensure they can attend. International students can also apply for loans, although the US Federal government does not lend money to non-US citizens.
To help students estimate the cost of studying in the US, all universities are now legally required to include a fees and financial aid calculator on their websites. These "net price calculators" can be accessed through the government's College Affordability and Transparency Center.
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University rankings
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Ranked 65th for the proportion of international students, MIT achieves a strong score for student diversity. With 3,289 out of 11,331 students being international, MIT also attracts a significant number of international faculty members. The university is known for its need-blind admission policy and generous financial aid, ensuring that admitted students receive the necessary support to attend.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Ranked 112th for the proportion of international students, Caltech has a student population of around 2,255. It receives high scores for its proportion of international faculty members and boasts an impressive three-to-one student-faculty ratio. Caltech is located in the vibrant state of California, known for its diverse cultural and academic offerings.
Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech or IIT)
Illinois Tech is ranked 15th globally for the proportion of international students. Located in Chicago, the university enrols almost 8,000 students, including over 1,000 from minority groups. Illinois Tech is known for its inclusive and diverse community, providing a supportive environment for students from various backgrounds.
Carnegie Mellon University
Ranked 24th for the proportion of international students, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is home to a diverse student body. With 58% of graduate students coming from outside the US, the university fosters a global perspective. Carnegie Mellon also has satellite centres in Silicon Valley and Manhattan and an international campus in Adelaide, Australia.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Marketing itself as "the innovation university," Stevens Institute of Technology is ranked third in the US for international students. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, the university attracts students from over 50 countries worldwide. Stevens Institute of Technology fosters a dynamic and culturally rich academic environment.
These rankings provide a glimpse into the US universities that actively attract international students and promote diverse and inclusive campuses. It is important to note that university rankings are just one aspect to consider when choosing a university, and students should also research factors such as academic programmes, campus culture, and personal preferences to find the best fit for their unique needs and goals.
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Student experience
Studying in a foreign country can be a daunting yet exciting opportunity for students. The US, in particular, is known for its world-leading tech and academia, attracting over 10,600 students from the UK in 2022-23.
English students applying to US universities should be aware of the differences in the application process and the higher education system. Unlike in the UK, there is no central body facilitating American university applications, so students will need to apply separately to each university on their website. The application process can be lengthy and complex, requiring good grades, test scores (SAT/ACT), personal statements, and extracurricular activities. The cost of applying to US universities should also be considered, with application fees ranging from $50 to $100 on average.
English students should research the different types of universities in the US to find the best fit for their academic and personal preferences. They can choose between large or small colleges, public or private colleges, and consider the location, climate, and available courses. Well-known private non-profit institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and Yale tend to have higher tuition fees but also offer more financial aid. Liberal arts colleges, such as Pomona College and Amherst College, offer a broad education in arts and sciences, while community colleges provide shorter courses and associate degrees.
The US college experience is also unique due to the emphasis on extracurricular activities, including social societies like sororities and fraternities, clubs, and university-level sports teams. These activities are an integral part of student life and provide opportunities for friendship and leadership development.
English students considering US universities should start planning early, researching funding options, and seeking guidance from educational advisors to navigate the complex application process successfully.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, English students can go to university in America. In the 2022-23 academic year, there were over 10,600 students from the UK enrolled at American universities.
Entry requirements vary across US universities, but as a minimum, you will likely need 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C, including English and Maths. For a four-year degree, you will need to be studying post-16 qualifications (e.g. A-Levels). More competitive universities may require at least 3 A-Levels or their equivalent. Less competitive universities may accept vocational qualifications, such as BTEC National Extended Diplomas.
If you are from an English-speaking country or have a qualification studied entirely in English, some US universities may waive the English test score requirement. Otherwise, you will need to meet a minimum English language proficiency score, typically demonstrated by a TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent exam.
There is no central body facilitating applications to US universities, so you will need to apply separately to each university via their website. Many universities use the Common Application or the Coalition Application, which allow you to apply to multiple universities at once. The application process typically involves submitting grades, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay or statement.
Tuition fees and living costs can be high, so it is essential to research funding options. While grants and scholarships are available, there will likely be upfront costs for items such as your student visa and flights.
