There are no standard measures to compare the educational standards in the United States and the United Kingdom. However, preference is key and relative to individuals based on location, cost and opportunities available for international students. This is because the US and the UK are one of the best places to study.
There are no standard measures to compare the educational standards in the United States and the United Kingdom. However, preference is key and relative to individuals based on location, cost and opportunities available for international students. This is because the US and the UK are one of the best places to study.
Also, in the U.S. and UK, you will find different world-class institutions that leave you with a range of options. Hence, concerning numerous factors, this post illustrates the difference between studying in the U.S. and UK. It highlights
Also Read: Possible US Questions Interview Questions and Answers
Advantages of studying in the UK
The U.K is a popular study destination for a lot of people, so you would find a lot of verificatory reports online. Moreover, since it is easier to obtain a study visa to the UK, what more can you expect- accessibility?
See the following reasons why the UK can be your best bet here;
Cultural exposure
Cultural awareness is one highlight of studying in the UK. You have a lot to learn about history, meals, the royal family, traditions and long-existing attractions.
Also, finding different people from all walks of life in the United Kingdom is another amazing thing. You will find people with diverse cultural heritage while studying in the UK.
Moderate cost of living
It has been said that studying in the UK is preferred, compared to most countries. This is because of access to affordable services, food, housing, clothing, amenities and many more.
Thus you can find that based on budget, studying in the UK should be your first option as well.
Access to apply for different institutions
The UK allows international students to apply to about five schools or more for a degree. This is quite easy to do because it entails fewer entry requirements or certifications to get into an institution in the UK.
Shorter duration of the study
Studying in the UK does not take time. You are likely to complete the first degree within three to four years, a master’s degree in a year or two and a doctorate within three to four years.
This is very short in comparison with other institutions in the world.
Less expensive housing or accommodation
For a student in the United Kingdom, housing can be one very major concern. Although looking at the UK, housing is quite cheaper for students who desire privacy.
Limited or no entry requirements:
To study in the UK, you either need previous grades or proficiency tests or you don’t. It is not so mandatory for all institutions as often you might just be told to present a letter of intent and that’s it.
Advantages of studying in the U.S.
Weighing your option of studying in the United States, are you open to any of these?
Read on to find out;
Study aids
One of the strengths of the U.S. over the decades and centuries is education. The educational standard for both residents and international students is commendable.
Therefore, a lot of help has been put in place to help international students with the financial costs of studying in the U.S.
This is available by applying for U.S. scholarships, grants and many more options to study in the United States.
Recognised certificates
How else can we explain that having a certificate from a standard world-class institution in the United States makes you feel important? Besides, you can apply for jobs anywhere with such certificates and good grades and expect to get jobs easily.
Diverse study options
Studying in the United States gives you a wide range of study options. You can therefore make your study flexible by applying for courses and then choosing a major to specialise in.
Better infrastructure
The United States can boast of infrastructural development for students to learn with. This could be a plus for medical students or technology-oriented students as well.
Learning in a world-class hospital facility as a medical student is one of every student’s dreams. Well, studying in the U.S. makes this dream a reality.
Opportunities to explore culture and destinations
The United States also allows students to explore culture and tour amazing destinations in the United States. Therefore, you can have a great adventure during your time as a student in the U.S, exploring attractions, museums, food, festivals and so on.
Disadvantages of studying in the UK
As much as we have benefits of studying in the United Kingdom, there are also distinct drawbacks to be considered. In a recent study, it is believed that comparison should be based on your selections and opportunities made available to you.
Weather
In recent years, the United Kingdom has had unpredictable weather conditions. Therefore for you as a student here, you need to be informed about this before your visit. It usually gets dark, rainy, cloudy, sunny and lots more on days you do not expect in the UK. The United Kingdom weather is unpredictable.
No time to make quality career decisions
From the time you are granted admission to the UK to when you graduate, you just need to start planning a career path. This is especially if you will be staying in the UK after school to work or focus on further studies.
Also, since courses are already outlined, you do not have many speciality options in the UK than the ones available to you.
Disadvantages of studying in the U.S.
Studying for international recognition in the United States also comes with some glitches. These include;
Too many course options can lead to Confusion
Students in the U.S. have a lot of course options to choose from. This can mean that you can just choose to switch a course of study anytime which is a lot confusing.
Higher cost of living
The cost of living in the United States is a bit higher in comparison to other countries of the world. Therefore, you might find it difficult to meet up with demands.
Difficulty in obtaining the U.S. study visa
Obtaining a U.S. study visa is not as easy as it sounds. Therefore, it is not as though impossibility is the word. However, there are limited slots for students yearly.
This is why the early application for a U.S. study visa and the right travel agency is important. Therefore, we are here to help you on the journey.
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Too many entrance examinations and requirements
An English proficiency result is needed if you desire to study in the United States. Especially if you are from a non-English-speaking country. Also, you need other entrance examinations like SAT, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, ACT and so on. This is based on what the receiving institution requires from you.
Limited work opportunities after school
There are not so many opportunities for international students to remain in the U.S. to work after school. This might require that you first return to your country and then reapply for a work visa to the U.S. before you can be allowed to work there.
Cost of studying in the UK versus the U.S.
To help your choice, here is a compilation of fees for different degrees obtainable in the UK versus the U.S.
For a first degree (Bachelor of Science or Arts), studying in the UK costs about £9000 – £15,000. This depends on the institution, while it costs about $12000 to $25000 in the United States. However, a typical Master’s Degree in the UK ranges between £10,000 to £25,000. Whereas, schools in the United States charge as much as $20,000 – $50,000 to pursue a Master’s Degree program.
On the other hand, the Doctorate Degree is a bit higher too because it takes long years to complete in the United States. Thus, it costs about $25000 – $55000 to complete a PhD or related doctorate in the U.S. while it is about £10000 – £25000 in the UK.
An in-depth comparison between the educational system in UK and U.S.
To further compare studying in the UK versus the U.S. let us take a look at the following vital information;
Budget
First, from the information provided above, your budget determines your study options- UK or U.S.
This is especially important if you are not going for a scholarship option. Although, getting a scholarship covers most study expenses in any country. As well, you should still consider what happens in case you cannot maintain the scholarship for whatever reason.
Accommodation
Well, institutions provide rooms for you as a student in the UK or U.S. at an extra fee but you can decide to rent aff-campus accommodation. Relying on provisions for hostels or dormitories may not apply to everyone.
Furthermore, remember you are going to meet different people from all over the world from different backgrounds. Then, you might need to properly establish if you can share rooms or hostels or would rather live off campus throughout your study.
Cost of living
Health care in the UK after paying a surcharge when applying as a student is accessible. You can visit hospitals with the assurance that you will be taken care of.
While this might not fully apply to the United States, medical services in the US are not free. Medical services in the UK are a bit expensive as well.
Culture
The UK and U.S. have modifications to their culture and lifestyle. Although you can still be interested in the history of the United Kingdom. On the other hand, the USA has diverse attractions in almost all states you can find worthy to explore.
Internship Programs for international students
Studying in the UK prepares you for the real workspace eventually after school. Therefore you are exposed to different internship programs, and training and even allowed to work alongside studying.
This is not fully permissible in the U.S. except for citizens. International students are sometimes required to just visit for studying alone and leave afterwards.
Flexible study schedules
Study schedules in the U.S. are more flexible and have a longer duration. Therefore, you have time for more personal study, extracurricular activities and many more.
However, in the UK you might just be fixed on studying as fast as you can just to graduate and get a good job on time. Although, the study visa allows you to work for 20 hours a week and attend school.
After-school opportunities
First, if you desire after-school opportunities, the UK is strongly
endorsed. There are privileges of remaining in the UK to work, get an additional degree and so on.
Becoming a resident in the UK or US after studying
Residency in the UK is quite easier compared to the United States. This is one of the major decisions to consider. Once you have spent over five years in the United Kingdom, then you are on your way to successfully applying for a resident permit.
Distinguished institutions in the United Kingdom
According to ratings, there are prestigious universities in the UK that are world-class. These institutions have had and still have positive impacts on society at large.
Some of them are;
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College, London
- University of Edinburgh
- King’s College London
- London School of Economics and -Political Science London
- University of Manchester
- University of Glasgow
- University College London (UCL)
- Durham University
Although there are nearly a thousand universities and more institutions in the United Kingdom. The universities listed above are the top-rated institutions in the UK.
These study institutions in the UK have maintained their ranks among the best 50 institutions in the world. Therefore, universities in the UK are always improving the quality of their educational services.
Distinguished institutions in the United States
Institutions majorly applied in the United States are known for excellence and educational opportunities for international students. Some of the best Universities in the UK include;
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Yale University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Michigan State University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Cornell University
- John Hopkins University
- University of Southern California
- University of Washington
- the University of Texas at Austin
- Princeton University
- University of Chicago
- University of Wisconsin
- Colombia University
- Pennsylvania State University
The U.S. has more than 1500 higher institutions of learning. This calls for review from time to time to select the best from which the above list was culled.
In addition, universities in the U.S. have always been in the lead for standard quality educational achievements over the years. Thus, you can find long-existing institutions such as Havard, Stanford, Yale, John Hopkins and so on, mentioned in world records for excellent delivery.
Types of Institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom
Institutions in the United States are majorly owned by a region or state, private individuals or community. Also, there are colleges of arts, media and entertainment or journalism where you can focus on majoring in art-related courses.
Furthermore, the United States have vocational and technical schools majorly for engineering and science-oriented students.
Likewise, institutions in the UK are government owned and run by the nation, Faith-based schools are also known as mission institutions. Then, there are universities run by affiliation with the government or private firms and individuals in the United Kingdom.
All of the above mentioned helps you with a view of the management of these institutions and also the financial cost of applying to these schools.
Major courses you can study in the UK in comparison with the U.S.
Courses in high demand in the United States are Engineering, Mathematics, Pure sciences ( Chemistry, Biology), Medical Sciences, Arts, Business Administration, Civic studies, and Law.
Also, taking a look at the courses that international students apply for in the UK most times, we have; Business Management( Economics, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources Management), Technology centred courses such as Systems Engineering, Data Science, Architecture, Nursing Science, Law, Medical and Pre-medical courses, Agricultural related studies.
Conclusion
Finally, please take note of current exchange rates in further calculations. Compare and contrast your pocket size and the set academic goals you have.
Therefore, this will help you to analyse your budget based on available resources. Also, you should be conscious of making decisions about your course of study in line with relevant career opportunities.
Moreover, you can apply for scholarships to help with the cost of study. For further help on studying in the UK or U.S., kindly contact us for details.
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