Comparison Between: UK and USA

Higher Education Systems In UK & USA

The comparison of the US and UK education systems is essential for an accurate understanding of these differences. Here are key differences between US institutions and UK institutions.

UK

• Public And Private Universities: These are generally managed by the British government and private enterprises.
• Autonomous Institutions: Established with public funds and operated by either a government or a private organization.
• Group of Institutions: Some small colleges and universities combine and form groups, often referred to as missions groups.
• Degree Awarding Institutions: These institutions have the authority to award research, associate, and teaching degrees.

USA

• Public Universities: These institutions of higher education are funded by taxes and are regulated by the government of the United States.
• Private Universities: The US government does not support such institutions, and these are primarily funded by alumni donations and faculty research grants.
• Liberal Arts College: Such higher education institutions specialize in specific undergraduate courses within the social sciences, sciences, and humanities disciplines.
• Community Colleges: Unlike universities, community colleges offer two-year associate degrees at a relatively low cost.
• Technical Schools: These schools offer engineering, science, and degree programs.

Top Universities In UK & USA

A survey compiled by the Times Higher Education revealed that more than half of the world's top 200 universities are located in the United States or the United Kingdom. According to the QS World University Rankings 2022, which was recently released, the United Kingdom has 90 universities, of which four are ranked in the top 10. It is only surpassed by the United States, which has 177 entries.

Top 5 Universities in UK

Here are the top five universities in the UK with their QS World Rankings in 2022:

Top 5 Universities in USA

Here are the top five universities in the USA with their QS World Rankings in 2022:

Popular Courses To Study In UK & USA

The UK and the USA both offer an array of programs to international students. Here are the top courses to study in the UK and the USA:

Cost Of Studying In UK & USA

Here is the average cost of studying in the UK and USA:

Cost Of Living In UK & USA

Tuition fees are not the only expense that should be considered when calculating the cost of studying abroad. It is also necessary to set aside funds for accommodation, food, transportation, WiFi, and traveling.

Scholarships Offered In UK & USA

Listed below are some of the most significant scholarships awarded each year to students who wish to study in the UK or the USA:

Student Visa Requirements In UK & USA

Here is the detailed information on student visa requirements for both the UK and USA.

Student Visa for UK

• Tier-4 is the full-time student visa offered by the United Kingdom. Tier-4 UK visas typically cost approximately 350 GBP.
• Additionally, if a dependent travels with you, they must also apply for a visa. A surcharge of 705 GBP is also required for international travel.
• An interview may or may not be scheduled with the visa officer.

Documents Required

• A valid passport
• The reference number of Confirmation of Acceptance For Studies (CAS)
• Passport-size photographs
• Assessment documentation
• ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance report
• A tuberculosis screening report may be requested.
• Documentation regarding the student loan (if you have borrowed a student loan from a bank).

Student Visa for USA

There are three different types of student visas available in the USA:

• F1 student visas are required for programs requiring 18 hours of study weekly, such as MBA and MS
• The J1 Exchange Visitor Visa is issued to students and lecturers pursuing exchange programs in the United States.
• Students wishing to attend technical and vocational schools are required to obtain an M1 visa. For both M1 and F1 visas, the application process is the same.

Documents Required

• A valid passport
• A printed copy of the DS-160 application form
• SEVIS fee receipt (visa fee receipt)
• An original and a copy of the interview appointment letter.
• You will need to submit an original and a copy of the Form I-20 sent by the university/college in which you are enrolled.
• A copy of your previous qualifications.
• Visa fee payment confirmation receipt.
• Results from your chosen English language proficiency test.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to reside in the USA.

Job Opportunities In UK & USA

There are many reasons why the UK and the USA are among top choices for international students looking for higher education abroad, including the world-class education and the wide range of employment opportunities these countries offer.

PR In UK & USA

UK

Due to recent changes in government and legal policies, immigrants to the UK are experiencing increased difficulty. The UK government has undertaken a number of measures to limit non-EU migration and remove bogus colleges from the list. In most cases, if you are holding a UK student or work visa, you will need to depart the country.

US

The option of permanent residency is available, but it has a very long and lengthy process. As a result of its complexity, the person applying for it must reside in the United States for a period of at least five years in order to qualify for it. After this, you will be granted a “Green Card,” but the entire process may take several years.

Hopefully, the comparison between the UK and USA higher education system and other aspects will help you make an informed decision for your career.