Students from around the world, including those from the UK, aspire to study in the US. Many of the world’s top-ranked universities, such as Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Caltech, are based in the United States. These universities are renowned for their cutting-edge research, top-quality courses, and strong job prospects following the completion of an undergraduate degree.
Alongside Ivy League and non-Ivy League schools, the US is home to excellent liberal arts colleges, a type of undergraduate university offering a broad academic focus. These colleges and universities are highly respected by employers and grad schools in the US and worldwide.
If you’re a UK student or international applicant considering applying to American universities, this guide is for you. With advice from The Profs’ Head of Consulting, Joseph Robbins, we’ll walk you through the whole application process from meeting entry requirements and preparing for admission tests like the SAT or ACT, to writing your Common App essay, gathering test scores, and submitting your transcript and statement.
We also cover key differences between applying to the UK and the US, such as grades, English language and English test requirements, and how to cover the costs with financial aid for international students, including scholarships and student loans.
Set the stage for success with The Profs’ US Admissions Tutors and learn exactly how to get into US universities as a UK student.
Don’t forget to check out our other blogs:
Best Universities in the United States 2025 – Top College & University Rankings
UK to US grade conversion table: Everything you need to know
Contents:
- What are the main differences between UK and US universities?
- 7-step application process to study at US universities
- 1. Research available universities
- 2. Check the entry requirements and UK qualifications for admission
- 3. Take the SAT or ACT exams for US university applications
- 4. Ask for letters of recommendation from UK schools
- 5. Write your Common App statement and supplemental essays for American universities
- 6. Put your application together and apply for a US degree
- 7. Accept your offer and plan your move to the US!
- Find an expert admissions tutor
- FAQs
What are the main differences between UK and US universities?
| Aspect | UK | US |
| How you apply | Students apply through UCAS for all undergraduate university applications. | Most US universities use the Common App, though some (like MIT or the University of California) require you to apply directly to the university. |
| How many universities you can apply to | You can apply to up to five UK universities using UCAS with one application fee | You can apply to as many universities as you want, but must pay for each application individually. |
| Style of courses | You study one subject or a small group of subjects throughout your degree. UK universities focus on in-depth subject knowledge. | American colleges follow a liberal arts model. You can explore a broad range of courses and often don’t declare a major until your second year. |
| Course fees | UK students pay up to £9,535 per year. International students may pay up to £38,000. | US degree tuition ranges from $12,000 to $50,000 per year. The average out-of-state cost is around $25,620. |
| Funding | UK students can access student loans and maintenance loans, plus scholarships and financial aid from UK universities. | Neither international students nor US students in general are guaranteed loans, but there are scholarship and financial aid for international students options especially at top US universities, so research is key. |
| What they’re looking for | Admissions focus mainly on grades, qualifications, and your UK personal statement. Some competitive universities (e.g. Oxbridge) may require admission tests. | US university admissions value extracurriculars, academic achievement, and test scores from exams like the SAT/ACT. Common App essays are important, and many American universities seek well-rounded international applicants. |
Shape your academic future with confidence by connecting with The Profs’ Uni Applications Tutors, where expert guidance paves the way to unparalleled career success.
7-step application process to study at US universities
Here are the steps you need to take to apply to US universities as a UK student. For more information or support starting your US university application, reach out to our US admissions team.
1. Research available universities
Begin your research into the university process early, ideally a year before you plan to start an undergraduate degree. Most US university applications open on August 1st via the Common Application (used by over 600 universities and colleges).
US university admissions involve a more complex application process than the UK system, with varying deadlines, admission tests, and requirements. It’s crucial to plan.
Here’s what to consider when deciding where to apply to US universities:
University Ethos & Culture
Every institution has different values. Unlike UK schools, colleges in the US often prioritise extracurriculars and campus involvement. Consider what life as a student will be like both inside and outside the classroom.
Location Across the US
The USA is vast, with schools in the US spanning different states, climates, and costs of living. Your choice of university will significantly impact your lifestyle and expenses.
Entry Requirements
Top universities are highly competitive institutions, characterised by lower acceptance rates and higher tuition fees. Aim high, but ensure your grades, qualifications, and transcript align with realistic expectations. International students should pay close attention to specific requirements.
Admission Tests & Preparation
International applicants typically need to take the SAT or ACT, standardised tests used to compare test scores from students globally. Begin preparing early with past exams and practising effective strategies.
We also recommend preparing for English test requirements if English is not your first language.
Deadlines & Application Types
Unlike UCAS, which has set dates, many American universities set their deadlines. Some colleges offer Early Decision, which is a binding option. Always check each university’s website before submitting your application.
Teaching & Course Style
US universities typically use a liberal arts model. Instead of focusing on one subject, you’ll take a range of courses before choosing your major later, usually after your second year. This differs from studying in the UK, where specialisation happens earlier.
Grading & Translation
UK students should understand how their grades convert. For example, A Levels are often compared to APs in the United States. Research this when targeting the right level of university in the US.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
US universities also offer financial aid to international students, including scholarships based on sports, arts, and merit. These don’t need to be repaid if conditions are met.
You can also look into Fulbright or explore options to get funding for study abroad.
Career Prospects
Consider how well programs align with your goals. Many top US universities, such as MIT, Caltech, and Harvard, are ranked among the best in the world for career outcomes and industry connections.
Joe’s tip: If possible, it’s a good idea to take tours (or virtual tours!) of the universities you’d like to attend so that you can get a feel for them. You can also participate in USA College Day – the biggest US university fair in Europe – in September to meet the universities themselves and demonstrate your interest.
2. Check the entry requirements and UK qualifications for admission
US universities are often highly competitive. To increase your chances of admission, ensure you meet both academic and logistical requirements, particularly if you’re an international student.
Academic Qualifications
While American universities often use a holistic review approach during the application process, your qualifications still play a vital role. Most universities in the US accept UK qualifications, such as A-levels and IB.
Top universities (e.g. Harvard) may require:
- At least three A-A* grades at A-level.
- SAT score of 1580 or ACT score of 35.
Public universities, such as UCLA, may require ABB at A-level or 35 IB points.
You (or your UK school) must submit an academic transcript showing predicted or achieved grades when applying to American universities. Every institution sets its entry requirements, so always check with their international admissions office before applying.
Student Visa (Right to Study)
To study in the US, you’ll need an F-1 student visa. You can only apply for a student visa after being accepted by a US university.
Visa application steps include:
- Completing the online application.
- Scheduling a visa interview via the US Embassy system.
- Paying an application fee (approx. £120).
See Step 7 for full details on student visas and the process of moving to the US legally as a UK student.
3. Take the SAT or ACT exams for US university applications
To apply to American universities, most US universities require international students to complete an admission test, either the SAT or ACT. These standardised tests help universities compare students’ study performance across schools in the US and abroad.
What’s the Difference?
- SAT: Focuses on English language (Reading & Writing) and Maths.
- ACT: Includes Science, making it ideal for science-based programs such as engineering or Medicine.
You can usually choose either test, unless a university specifies a preference, so always check directly with the international admissions office.
Registering for the Tests
SAT:
- Register at the College Board website.
- Example: To sit the SAT on October 1st, register by September 2nd.
ACT:
- Register at the ACT website.
- Example: For the test on 10–11 June, register by May 13th.
Both tests require registration approximately five weeks before the test date; always confirm on the official websites.
What Is a Good Score?
SAT: A strong SAT score boosts your university application significantly.
Example scores:
- MIT: 1510–1580 total (730–780 in Reading/Writing, 780–800 in Maths)
- UCLA (University of California): Around 1405
- ACT: National average: 20.7, but top universities expect much higher.
Example scores:
- MIT: 34–36 composite
- Harvard, Princeton, Columbia: 33–35
Why Preparation Matters
- Strong test scores are crucial for admission to top US universities and can influence financial aid opportunities.
- Preparing for these exams takes time, strategy, and focus, especially if you’re targeting a competitive university or applying Early Decision.
Secure your spot at a university in the US by working with The Profs’ SAT & ACT Tutors – your expert partners in achieving exam success and unlocking your future in higher education abroad.
4. Ask for letters of recommendation from UK schools
Letters of recommendation (also called references) are a vital part of both the Common App and direct university applications when applying to American universities.
What Are They?
- Recommendations are written by your teachers or school staff, highlighting your academic ability, character, and potential to succeed in an undergraduate degree.
- They support your application by offering context for your grades and qualifications.
When to Ask
Ask for recommendations at least six months before you plan to apply to US universities.
This gives your teachers time to:
- Understand the US admissions process
- Learn about the Common App
- Write a reference that fits American university expectations
How Many Do You Need?
Universities typically set their own requirements:
- Some may ask for two teacher recommendations
- Others may have no specific requirements at all
Always check with the international admissions office of each university in the US to confirm exactly what’s needed.
Submitting from the UK
- Ask the university whether references must be submitted via the Common Application or another method.
- Teachers from UK schools may need guidance, so provide clear instructions and deadlines early on.
5. Write your Common App statement and supplemental essays for American universities
As part of the application process to US universities, most international students will need to submit one main personal essay and possibly additional supplemental essays, especially when applying via the Common Application (Common App).
The Personal Essay (Common App)
You’ll select one prompt from a set list (see examples below).
- The essay should show how you align with your chosen university’s mission, values, and community.
- Unlike the UK personal statement, US essays are more personal than academic and are not tied to a specific degree or course.
UCAS vs Common App
| UCAS (UK) | Common App (US) |
| One personal statement (4,000 characters) focused on subject interest and qualifications. | One essay (250–650 words) about your experiences, values, and growth. |
| Required until 2025. From 2026, students will answer short, structured questions.
| Prompts are personal and reflective. Additional supplemental essays may be required by some universities.
Common App prompts include:
|
Tip: Don’t just pick the easiest one. Select the prompt that allows you to showcase your strengths, unique voice, and writing abilities.
Supplemental Essays
Universities in the US may include school-specific supplemental questions.
These could ask about:
- Long-term goals
- Why are you applying to that institution
- Your community impact
Extra tip: Avoid repeating information from your personal essay or reference.
Focus on Extracurriculars
US universities place a high value on what you do outside the classroom.
- Highlight leadership, community work, sports, arts, or paid work like tutoring.
- Show how these activities helped develop your skills and make you a well-rounded student.
- Use specifics: “I ranked in the top 90% for…” or “I led a team of 12 volunteers…”
Tip: Top US students are often highly accomplished, so be clear, confident, and quantifiable about your achievements.
Submission
- Common App essays: 250–650 words (aim for 500–650).
- Submitted directly via the Common App or Coalition App.
- These platforms may include a section for a Statement of Purpose (SOP); some colleges require it, others may not.
- SOP prompts can differ slightly across platforms, so check carefully for each application year.
The Profs’ US admissions and writing tutors offer tailored guidance for UK students applying to American universities. From choosing the best Common App essay prompt to writing standout statements, our experts help you make a compelling case for admission.
Get expert help and ensure your US university application reflects your full potential from extracurriculars to academic preparation.
6. Put your application together and apply for a US degree
Once you have all of the pieces of your application, you should check (and double-check!) that all of your details are correct and that your essays are as well-written as possible. If you’re applying via The Common App, ensure that you review and verify that all stages have been completed. You should also ask a tutor, teacher, or parent to review your entire application before pressing submit.
Remember that you can also get in touch with your chosen university’s international admissions office to check that you have all the information required for entry before submitting.
Joe’s tip: There’s nothing better than getting an experienced tutor with knowledge of the US application process to check your application. Not only will they be able to give you helpful tips on where to improve your writing, but they also have extensive knowledge of what top American universities are looking for and can guide you on how to tailor your application accordingly.
7. Accept your offer and plan your move to the US!
Once you’ve submitted your application, most US universities respond by March. If you are waitlisted, you can send a letter of continued interest to demonstrate your enthusiasm and share any updates.
Accepting an Offer
- There are no conditional offers or UCAS-style choices in the US admissions process.
- Accept your place by paying a non-refundable enrolment deposit ($100–$1,000).
- Still waiting on others? You can pay a deposit to hold a spot.
Moving to the US
Orientation starts in August and September. Wait for exact dates before booking travel.
Once accepted, apply for an F-1 student visa:
- Complete the online application.
- Schedule an interview and pay the visa fee (£120).
- Student visas can be issued up to 120 days before your course begins; however, entry is permitted only within 30 days before the start date.
Visit the US Embassy in London for full details on student visa requirements and entry procedures.
Ready to study in the US? The Profs can help UK students with every step, from admission to visa preparation.
Find an expert admissions tutor
Getting into a top US university isn’t just about high grades or ticking boxes. It takes strategy. From choosing the right Common App essay prompt to building a well-rounded application that highlights your extracurriculars, test scores, and academic narrative, every part of the admissions process matters.
That’s where The Profs come in. Our expert US admissions tutors understand what top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford are really looking for, from international students especially. Whether you need help refining your statement, preparing for admission tests like the SAT/ACT, or structuring your application for maximum impact, we’re here to guide you.
Our results speak for themselves: 95% of our students receive offers from one of their top two university choices. If you’re a UK student aiming to study in the US and want your application to stand out, we’re ready when you are.
Get in touch with our Admissions team today and take the first step toward your US university journey. Let’s make it happen.
FAQs about How to get into US Universities as a UK Student
How long is my SAT score valid?
SAT test scores stay valid for five years and can be reused for future applications or improved with a retake.
What is the difference between a UCAS application and a Common App application?
UCAS is the UK system for applying to universities. The Common Application (Common App) is used for applying to American universities and includes a personal essay, extracurriculars, and test scores. It allows you to apply to multiple US colleges with one application.
What is the difference between a college and university in the US?
Colleges offer undergraduate degrees, while universities may also have postgraduate programs. Public universities are state-funded and generally cheaper; private universities often cost more but offer more financial aid.
How much does it cost to go to university in America from the UK?
Public universities average $27,000 per year, private ones $38,000. Costs vary by location, but many US universities offer financial aid to international students to help cover the cost.
