Do you know the differences between undergraduate degrees at a college in the UK vs US? In order to get high-quality education resources, diverse academic opportunities, wonderful campus cultures, and promising career prospects, many students try hard to be members of top higher institutions in these two countries. That sounds like a valuable way to their personal development, but which country offers a more valuable undergraduate degree? Follow us and take a close look at the key aspects of UK education vs US.
Key Differences: College in the UK vs US
| US college | UK college | |
|---|---|---|
| Application processes | Apply directly to unlimited colleges/ through Common App | Apply to no more than 5 colleges through UCAS |
| Admissions decisions | Determined by the admissions office of the American institution | Made by the admissions office and the faculty of the student’s chosen course |
| Degree length | 4 years | 3 years except in Scotland |
| Teaching method | Collaborative and interactive learning | Lectures mixed with smaller group tutorials |
| Assessment style | Based on the participation of students in the courses | Mainly based on final exams |
| The numbers of top colleges | 25 | 15 |
The comparison will be made in the following six aspects.
Application Processes
In the United States, students are allowed to submit applications to as many American universities as possible at one time. It doesn’t matter if they have not decided which major to study. They can use the Common App or apply to colleges directly. Each school has its own application deadlines and criteria for application fees. Students have to pay an application fee each time they apply to a university.
Unlike in the US, students in the UK can only apply to a maximum of five universities at a time. When submitting application they must decide their majors. All applicants must apply to higher education in the UK through the UCAS system. It is an independent charity and the UK’s shared admissions service for higher education. Application fees and application deadlines are also implemented according to UCAS standards and usually only a single application fee is required.
Admissions Decisions
There is a significant difference in admission when comparing UK education vs US. The admission is usually determined by the admissions office of the American institution. American universities consider sports and extracurricular activities as important as academic performance. They placed emphasis on applicants’ academic achievements and enthusiasm. At the same time, students’ contributions to athletics and extracurricular activities weigh more heavily in admissions decisions in the US than in the UK.
The final admissions decisions are made by the admissions office and the faculty of the student’s chosen course in the UK. The examiners mainly review the scores of the applicants. They pay more attention to applicants’ grades. There is only one regular admission period for UK universities.
Degree Length
American undergraduate degree lasts for 4 years. Freshmen will learn more general knowledge in their courses in the first school year. In this way, they can explore different disciplines and determine their major.
It usually takes 3 years to complete a bachelor’s degree in the United Kingdom, except in Scotland. Undergraduate courses are related to the field of study. Undergraduates studying at British colleges can delve into a subject earlier.
In addition, changing majors and adding a second major is much easier and more flexible in US universities than in UK universities.
Teaching Method
Another difference between American education vs British is the teaching method. American universities focus on students’ collaborative learning and enjoying more interactive learning experiences. Professors in American universities often discuss a lot with students on the courses. American students tend to have busier schedules. They usually have more homework to do and more courses to attend.
By contrast, Students in British universities often taking lectures held by professors. Tutors meet regularly with students in small groups to provide general guidance on life or professional aspects for needy students. UK universities encourage self-directed learning, which means students may have less time to communicate with their teachers.
Assessment Style
A large part of the evaluation of undergraduate grades in the US is based on the participation of students in the courses. Students’ grades are evaluated throughout the whole academic year.
However, undergraduate grades in the UK are assessed mainly on the basis of final exams and little class participation. If you study in a British college, you should hand in your paper before the deadline. This is one of the most significant differences between British vs American education system.
The Numbers of Top Colleges
There are about 262 colleges in the UK, most of which are public and located in England. There are nearly 4,000 universities in the United States, with a more even split between public and private schools. There are about 15 universities in the UK and about 25 in the US among the top 100 universities in the world, according to QS World University Rankings 2025.
College in the UK vs US: Which One is Better for International Undergraduate Students?
Studying abroad is a challenge for most international students because they have to leave their families and familiar living environments for a completely strange country. It’s not enough to know the difference between UK education vs US education for those who are going to pursue undergraduate in these two countries. Culture shock, different living habits and communication barriers are also the difficulties they may encounter.
Besides tuition and fees, the cost of living should also be taken into consideration when students decide on a US vs UK education. Some students want to more private space so they may choose to live in a student housing. It’s necessary to rent houses on reliable platforms like uhomes.com. It is committed to providing various houses and flexible leasing options for people.
FAQ
Are UK degrees respected in the USA?
Yes.
UK degrees are respected in the USA. Many employers in the USA recognize the quality of graduates with degrees at many British universities. They possess professional knowledge and skills and can adapt and thrive in diverse working environments.
Is it better to go to college in the US or UK?
Yes.
According to the statistics, there are about 15 universities in the UK and about 36 in the US among the top 100 universities in the world. The probability of the top 100 universities appearing in the UK is 9%, and the likelihood of appearing in the US is 0.9%.
Is college only 3 years in the UK?
No.
In most cases, higher education in the UK is 3 years in terms of undergraduate degree, which can be seen in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, the standard duration for an undergraduate degree in Scotland is four years.
