Why American Families Should Reconsider UK Higher Education: A Personal Journey and Expert Insight

Most American families have only a vague knowledge of UK higher education and the opportunities it provides. There are a few familiar brand names (e.g., Oxford), but in-depth knowledge of UK higher education is often for those attending international schools or with some immediate family connection back to Europe. It is, therefore, never seriously considered as an option for US families. This is totally normal.

I’m here to tell you why you should seriously think about the UK option, but first, a little about me.

About me–I was born in 1981, and that was a great time to be born. My Northern Irish father grew up in much tougher times but used to talk in such glowing terms about the US throughout my childhood. He would tell me stories about Muhammad Ali, giant steaks, the Grand Canyon, and 18-wheelers. Growing up in the 80s and 90s, ‘America’ was always the ultimate.

Fast-forward to 2023, and I’ve been lucky enough to spend the last 12 years working across the US, visiting 26 states, and meeting thousands of genuinely lovely people. I genuinely admire what America symbolizes and stands for and love the time I’m able to spend visiting. But America has its problems, including within its higher education system.

Why Investigate UK Options? 

I attended the annual NACAC Conference in Baltimore in September 2023, and the US Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona was interviewed at one point he said:

‘A college degree [in the US] translates to a lifetime of debt’

Doesn’t that seem wrong? I ask you:

1. Should Higher Education come at such an exorbitantly high price?
2. Seriously…. 'a lifetime of debt,’ why does it cost so much?
3. For something so expensive, why is the admissions system so complex?
   

Now, if there is one thing I know about Americans, it’s that they are financially savvy and understand a good investment when they see one. The UK is such an investment and here is why:

• World Class Education—The UK is home to world-leading universities with internationally recognized degree programs, and there is very strong evidence to support the fact that the UK’s research-led teaching style is more effective than a testing-based style.
• Academic Experience—We don’t use TAs in the UK, have smaller class sizes, have better access to professors and other academics, and you have the opportunity to gain international work experience.
• Completion Rates—On average, there are around 90%, and with focused degree programs and students unable to transfer credits, it is very rare for a student not to graduate within the allotted time, saving you any additional tuition.
• It’s Cheaper!—The UK offers much cheaper tuition, three-year degree programs (exactly the same standard and level as US degree programs, just no Gen Ed), and students will graduate on time, as we don’t allow students to delay credits. On average, most US families save around $100,000 coming to the UK.
• Transparent Admissions Criteria—No early action, no early decision, no demonstrated interest, no class rankings, virtually no decisions based upon random essays (just a few universities, e.g., Oxbridge), no quotas. We only look at your academic testing, and if it meets our requirements, the acceptance rate is often 100% for almost all programs (assuming you apply on time, etc). I.e. We want good students, we’re not looking for reasons to reject.
• Housing and Safety—You get your own room on a floor with other students, so you still get the social element. All bills and taxes are included, and international students get first choice over UK students! UK campuses are also extremely safe, and students get access to our free healthcare! Don’t believe what you hear; it's outstanding!
• A Brilliant Opportunity for Your Children to Grow and Develop—Do you dream of making a great impact in the USA? Then leave it. Go somewhere different, but that also speaks English. You only know what you know and one will truly come to understand one’s own country from the outside looking in. But whilst doing that, you will develop confidence, independence, resilience, and resourcefulness – all attributes that many major US corporations say are lacking in graduates!
• The Adventure of a Lifetime—Admission to UK Universities is based on academics, resulting in less natural division among students. With international students often making up 20-30% of a university’s cohort it is easy to make friends from all over the world. Students in the UK also take long vacations, and many international students use this opportunity to explore the history and heritage of the UK and Europe. Major cities like Rome, Paris, and Barcelona are all just a few hour's flight away, and flights can often be purchased for less than $100.

Misconceptions

1. Only the wealthiest can afford UK education and this lifechanging experience - FALSE
2. Only those students with the very best academic scores can attend the UK - FALSE
3. Only those who know exactly what they want to study can come to the UK - FALSE

So for those willing to explore, amazing opportunities are available for you in the UK. You’ll graduate faster, save significant money, and make international friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. You get to travel and explore the beautiful UK and Europe before you settle down and begin your career. Take it from me, a 42-year-old Dad trying to raise a four-year-old and run a business; these opportunities don’t come around often in life.

To find out more, watch the video called ‘Why Not You’ on my homepage and then complete the free referral form (60 seconds to change your life!) Please also feel free to reach out to me directly at info@ukcollegeadmissions.com.