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Whether you're seeking academic excellence, global career opportunities, or a rich cultural experience, studying in the USA broadens your horizons and unlocks career opportunities worldwide

According to the , over 1,057,000 international students were enrolled at US institutions during the 2024 Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½/25 academic year - including more than 10,500 from the UK.ÌýÌý

With over 4,500 degree-granting institutions to choose from, the US higher education system offers unrivalled flexibility and variety. Whether you're pursuing engineering, business, the arts, or sciences, there's a programme to suit nearly every academic and career goal.Ìý

The USA spans 50 states and six time zones, offering an impressive range of climates, cultures, and experiences - from the snowy campuses of the Northeast to the beaches of California and the deserts of Arizona.ÌýÌý

While world-famous cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Boston are student favourites, many are now discovering college towns such as Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Seattle, offering excellent education in more affordable locations.

American universities

While English is the primary language in the USA, academic terminology may differ from what you're used to. For instance, 'college' is often used interchangeably with 'university.' The higher education system includes:Ìý

• public colleges - state-funded with larger student populationsÌý
• private colleges - smaller, more selective, often offering lower student-to-staff ratios.Ìý

The prestigious Ivy League, similar to the Russell Group in the UK, includes eight institutions known for academic excellence:Ìý

• Brown University (Rhode Island)Ìý
• Columbia University (New York)Ìý
• Cornell University (New York)Ìý
• Dartmouth College (New Hampshire)Ìý
• Harvard University (Massachusetts)Ìý
• University of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania)Ìý
• Princeton University (New Jersey)Ìý
• Yale University (Connecticut).Ìý

According to the , four of the world's top ten universities are in the USA:Ìý

• 1st - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)Ìý
• 3rd - Stanford UniversityÌý
• 5th - Harvard UniversityÌý
• 10th - California Institute of Technology (Caltech)Ìý

Other highly ranked institutions include the University of Chicago (13th), University of Pennsylvania (15th), and Cornell University (16th).Ìý

The academic year is typically divided into two semesters:Ìý

• fall (autumn) - mid-August to DecemberÌý
• spring - January to May.Ìý

American university campuses often resemble small towns, featuring housing, sports facilities, cafes, and libraries. All students are encouraged to engage in clubs, societies, research groups, and student media. Sports play a major role in campus life, with many students participating in or attending games and joining intramural leagues - organised sports competitions within the university, where students form teams and compete against each other.Ìý

If you're a first year, you'll live in on-campus residence halls, or dormitories, sharing rooms and dining facilities. In later years, you'll likely move into off-campus housing.

Degree courses in the USA

In the USA, a Bachelors degree typically takes four years to complete - one year longer than in the UK.Ìý

Another key difference is the flexibility of the American system. You won't specialise in a subject straight away - instead, you'll spend one or two years exploring a range of subjects, known as general education. These courses, often called 'electives,' span disciplines such as humanities, sciences, and social sciences.Ìý

You'll then declare a 'major' - your main area of study, similar to a 'course' in the UK - by your second or third year. You may also choose a 'minor,' a secondary subject that allows you to pursue additional interests. For example, you might major in economics and minor in film studies.Ìý

Entry requirements vary by institution but generally include five GCSEs and two A-levels, or equivalent qualifications like Scottish Highers.ÌýÌý

Most universities also require standardised test scores - either the or - though some have adopted test-optional policies. This means you're not required to submit a GRE score, but you can include it if you believe it will strengthen your application.Ìý

Note that certain professional fields, such as medicine and law, are not offered at undergraduate level in the USA. Instead, you can take 'pre-med' or 'pre-law' courses as preparation, then apply to study these subjects at the graduate level to qualify and practice professionally.Ìý

You can explore US undergraduate degrees by subject and location through the .Ìý

Masters degrees

Known as 'graduate degrees' in the US, Masters programmes typically last one to two years and are offered across nearly all academic and professional fields.Ìý

There are two main types of graduate degrees:Ìý

• academic degrees (MA, MS) - a pathway to research or academic careers.Ìý
• professional degrees (MBA, Master of Public Health) - prepare students for specific professions.Ìý

Unlike the UK, US graduate programmes rarely focus solely on research. Instead, they are seminar-based, with an emphasis on continuous assessment, regular coursework, and independent research. You'll be assessed more frequently through smaller assignments, rather than a few major exams.Ìý

The application process is similar to that in the UK. Most programmes require at least a 2:2 undergraduate degree.ÌýÌý

For academic Masters degrees in subjects such as the humanities, sciences, engineering, or social sciences, you may also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the university's requirements. London Business School offers free practice tests for both the and to help prospective applicants prepare.Ìý

Keep in mind that there's no official conversion between UK qualifications and US grades - each institution sets its own criteria. It's important to check directly with the university before applying.Ìý

You can search for US graduate degrees by subject and location at the .

PhDs

A PhD, or Doctoral degree, is the highest academic qualification offered in the United States. Programmes typically take four to six years to complete, depending on the field and your research progress.Ìý

PhD study in the USA combines advanced coursework with independent and original research, culminating in a written dissertation that must be defended before a faculty committee. The early years often focus on coursework and comprehensive exams, followed by several years dedicated to research and writing.Ìý

Popular fields for PhD study include:Ìý

• biological sciencesÌý
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• ±ð²Ô²µ¾±²Ô±ð±ð°ù¾±²Ô²µÌý
• psychology.Ìý

Admission to a PhD programme typically requires a strong academic background, often including a relevant Masters degree - though in some cases, you may be admitted directly after a Bachelors.ÌýÌý

Competitive GRE scores are commonly required, although some programmes have adopted test-optional policies. Letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and research experience are also important parts of the application.

Student exchanges

UK students and recent graduates have access to a range of study, teaching, and research opportunities in the USA through programmes like those offered by the . These include undergraduate exchanges, full postgraduate degrees, and academic placements.Ìý

Many UK universities have active partnerships with US institutions.Ìý

For example, The University of Nottingham collaborates with:Ìý

• Oregon State UniversityÌý
• University of ArizonaÌý
• University of South Florida.Ìý

King's College London also partners with leading institutions such as:Ìý

• Georgetown UniversityÌý
• University of CaliforniaÌý
• University of Pennsylvania.Ìý

In addition, universities like the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) are members of the , which facilitates placements at universities across the USA.Ìý

If you're considering studying in the US, speak with your university's international office for advice on available programmes, funding options, and exact details of how to apply.

Course fees

Tuition fees in the USA vary significantly based on the type of institution and level of study. The average tuition cost at any four-year institution is approximately $17,709 (£12,900) per year.Ìý

Public universities typically charge two different annual tuition rates based on whether you reside in the same state as the university:Ìý

• in-state students - around $9,750 (£7,000)ÌýÌý
• out-of-state and international students - around $28,445 (£20,700).Ìý

Private universities charge the same tuition for all students, regardless of residency, though their fees are generally higher than those at public institutions.ÌýÌý

You can generally expect to pay the following each year:Ìý

• public universities - $8,000 to $35,000 (£5,800 to £24,500)Ìý
• private universities - $25,000 to $50,000 (£18,190 to £36,300)Ìý
• Masters degrees - $10,000 to $50,000 (£7,300 to £36,300)Ìý

Living costs in the US average around $1,500 (£1,100) per month, or $18,000 (£13,100) per year, but this varies widely by location.ÌýÌý

Cities like New York and San Francisco are among the most expensive, while regions such as the Midwest and Southern states are typically more affordable.Ìý

Funding to study in the USA

Studying in the US can be costly, with the average annual expense - including tuition, books, and living costs - around $38,270 (£27,800) per student. However, over 85% of international students receive some form of financial aid, with more than £7billion awarded to them each year.Ìý

Funding options vary and may cover full or partial costs. Common sources include:Ìý

• merit-based scholarships - for academic or artistic excellenceÌý
• need-based aid - based on family incomeÌý
• research or teaching assistantships - mainly for postgraduate students.Ìý

UK students can also explore external scholarships such as:Ìý

• - for undergraduates or graduates who demonstrate leadership through community service or extra-curriculars activitiesÌý
• - for Masters or PhD studies in any discipline at accredited US universitiesÌý
• - for athletes who meet both academic and athletic requirements.Ìý

Many US universities, especially private ones with large numbers of donations and investments - offer more generous scholarships, fee waivers, and financial support to students, including internationals.Ìý

It's important to contact your admissions or financial aid office early to explore your options. Some institutions reserve funds specifically for international undergraduates, so be sure to check with your university to see what support is available.

Student visas

Once accepted by a US university, you'll need to apply for an F-1 student visa, the standard visa for academic study.Ìý

Your university will issue you a Form I-20, which you'll use to pay the $350 (£255) Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. This is a government database that tracks your enrolment, academic status, and US address to ensure you maintain legal immigration status throughout your stay.Ìý

Next, schedule a visa interview at your nearest US embassy or consulate. You'll need to bring:Ìý

• financial documents showing you can cover tuition and living expensesÌý
• your completed visa application formÌý
• your passport.Ìý

You can apply for your visa up to 120 days before your programme starts, but you may only enter the US within 30 days of your official start date.Ìý

For the most up-to-date guidance, see .Ìý

As part of tightened US visa procedures, you must now provide usernames for any social media platforms you have used in the past five years. New rules introduced in 2025 mean you're also expected to set all accounts to 'public' during the application process to allow a full review by consular officers.Ìý

To prepare for the online presence review:Ìý

• be transparent - deleting or hiding profiles may be seen as an attempt to conceal information.Ìý
• remove or archive content that could be misunderstood or raise red flags.Ìý

While these measures target 'higher-risk countries,' UK applicants are also encouraged to comply fully.Ìý

If you're unsure about what to disclose, consult your university's international office, a trusted visa adviser, or visit

How to apply

You apply directly to each university, and typically sit a multiple-choice admissions test.Ìý

Most universities require either the SAT or ACT tests, both of which you can take at test centres across the UK for around £50. Providers like Kaplan offer dedicated SAT prep and ACT prep, including free resources, tutoring, and full revision courses for each exam.Ìý

Many institutions use the , an online platform that lets you submit core information - like academic history and personal details - to multiple universities at once.Ìý

Typical application requirements include:Ìý

• academic transcripts from GCSEs and A-levelsÌý
• a personal statement or admissions essayÌý
• two or three academic referencesÌý
• standardised test scores like ACT, GRE or SATÌý
• a CV for postgraduate coursesÌý
• an application fee of $50 to $100 (£37 to £73) per university.Ìý

If you're a graduate applicant, you might also need to submit a research proposal and attend an interview.Ìý

Application deadlines for autumn (fall) entry usually fall between November and February of the year before you plan to start. You should begin preparing 12 to 18 months in advance.Ìý

There's no cap on the number of university applications you can make, but the Fulbright Commission advises applying to no more than six. This ensures you have time to tailor strong applications while maximising your chances of admission.

Language requirements

All university courses in the US are delivered in English. If English is not your first language, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency through an accepted English language test. The most acknowledged tests are the and the , both widely recognised by US institutions.Ìý

Some universities may also accept alternative tests like or , so it's worth checking individual entry requirements carefully.

Comparison to UK qualifications

There is no direct equivalence between UK and US qualifications or grading systems, as the two are structured differently. However, degrees from accredited US institutions are recognised and respected by employers and academic institutions around the world.Ìý

Before applying, it's important to check whether a US degree will meet any professional or regulatory requirements in your home country with the appropriate professional body or licensing authority - particularly if you're entering a licensed profession such as law, medicine, or teaching.ÌýÌý

Be sure to check with your chosen university and relevant professional bodies to ensure your qualification will be fully recognised.

Find out more

• Discover what it's like to work in the USA.