Things Every Undergraduate Candidate Should Know Before Studying in UK & USA

Here is a list of things every undergraduate candidate should know before they think about whether study abroad is the right choice.

CONSISTENT MARKS Different academic criteria count in different places

UK- If you want to study in the UK, your Class 10 board marks and your predicted Class 12 board score will be taken into account for admission

USA- Those who wish to study in the USA should know that every school report card and mark sheet must be sent to the college with the application from Class 9 onward. No report card can be omitted. Board scores are also taken into consideration, but continuous assessments from Class 9 to Class 12 are important criteria for USA universities.




APPLICATION TIMING Applications must be submitted eight to ten months before the college year starts (between August and September)

UK- For most students this means that around November of the Class 12 application deadlines begin and continue through February for some colleges.

USA- The majority of deadlines are December 31 of Class 12. Being prepared for application submission takes at least six months, taking into account standardized testing (example, SAT or ACT) and essay writing. So this means in and around May of Class 11 (or 1.5 years before you will attend college), you need to be engaged in the application process, preferably with your testing completed.

NON-ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS While experience is more important for UK colleges, extra- curricular activities are important for the USA

UK- UK colleges are most interested in whether an applicant is prepared to commit to his or her chosen course of study.

USA- USA colleges are seeking well-rounded class of students - they want the incoming batch of students to fit together like a puzzle of people with different strengths and interests who can add diverse perspectives to the campus. For this reason the application process prioritizes strong extra-curricular interests including sports, arts, music, student leadership or social service.

TESTING

UK- Depending on the course of interest, applications to the UK can require testing. You will only come to know the required tests and their timings once you have decided on your course.

USA- Only USA colleges require the SAT.
Imperial College has specific testing requirements for engineering applicants, whereas another college may not require any engineering test. Also, check English proficiency testing requirements carefully - visa processing may require it. And keep in mind that some colleges in the USA do not accept IELTS, though UK accepts only IELTS and not TOEFL.

COURSE SELECTION

UK- UK colleges are like India, students select a course and they are committed to study that subject for three years. There is no option to switch, nor are there cross-disciplinary, add-on subjects.

USA- In the USA, however, students are allowed to change their major course of study within the four years of their college education and/or add on minor subjects of study. In fact, statistics suggest that at least 80% of USA college students change their major at least once. This is allowed because often students discover course options that are more enriching than what they had originally chosen.

These points reflect the basic knowledge students and their families should have if they want to pursue undergraduate studies abroad. Beyond this, there are innumerable nitty-gritty details that need to be attended to before an application is ready. Planning ahead is t he best strategy for success.

Overseas Education Consultant

We at Edwise streamline and personalize the process for each student irrespective of the destination, institution, course or any level of study. Our team of experienced professionals will provide you individual attention and exceptional guidance throughout your process of application. We provide assistance related to course selections, admission, visa, bank-loan and scholarships. We also host University delegates for direct student interaction and all these services are provided free of cost. We have established since 1991 and have been maintaining strong networks with over 575 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide.

Start your education in Canada with valuable information on everything you need to know about studying abroad from study permits, temporary resident visas and how much it costs, to finding a program.

Do visit your nearest Edwise branch & choose your university carefully under our expert guidance and ensure that you have all your paperwork in order. Once you apply, and the wait is over, you can really begin to look forward to not only studying in a beautiful and vibrant country, but also to a life experience quite like no other.

For complete information on Studying in USA and UK Studies, Contact Edwise on 1-800-200-3678 (Toll Free) / 08600911333.