UK vs USA: A Complete Guide for Indian Students in 2024 (2024)

When it comes to studying abroad, two popular destinations for international students are the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States of America (USA). Both UK vs USA countries offer world-renowned universities, diverse cultures, and vibrant student life. However, there are a few significant differences between the UK and USA that might help students choose which is the best match for them.

When choosing to study abroad between USA and UK, from the length of degree programmes to the campus experience and cultural environment, understanding key differences can make choosing the right study destination easier. Academically, both USA and UK have top universities in world for international students. While comparing USA vs UK 2024, the course structure in the United States is frequently more flexible, allowing you to experiment with multiple subjects before choosing one. The UK system takes a more targeted approach, with coursework appropriate for your chosen major from the start.

Many worldwide ranking bodies, like QS and THE, rank top universities in US and UK among the best in the world. However, determining which country is best for you to study abroad is a difficult task for international students. Education in the USA vs UK provides excellent employment options in business, engineering, computer science, and other popular professions.

In this article, we tried to cover the major difference between study in UK vs study in USA. Students wishing to study abroad in 2024 should read the entire article to discover more about the education system, admission standards, cost of living, and other major differences between the United States and the United Kingdom.

UK vs USA for International Students in 2024: Highlights

UK or USA Which is Better for Education in 2024?

Both the United Kingdom and the United States provide excellent education to international students that is renowned across the world. Here's an overview of the higher education system in the UK and the United States:

Education System in UK

The United Kingdom is a popular destination for international learners, with a highly regarded educational system and globally recognised degrees. The UK offers various types of degrees to overseas students:

• Undergraduate: In the UK, undergraduate degrees are usually of three years. They award degrees such as Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), and Bachelor of Engineering (BEng). However, the MBBS and other medical degrees might require a longer duration.

• Master's degrees: These courses typically take 1-2 years for international students. These academic degrees grant titles such as Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Education System in USA

Degrees granted in the United States have been recognised all over the world. The following are several types of degrees offered to overseas students in the United States:

• Undergraduate: This academic programme leads to a Bachelor's degree and usually lasts four years. Students take a combination of core curriculum courses (general education) and electives in their primary field of study.

• Master's degree (1-2 years): These programmes often focus on a single part within a larger field. Lectures, seminars, research projects, and a final thesis or project are all potential components of coursework.

• Doctoral Degree (PhD) (4-7 Years): PhD programmes prepare students for advanced academic careers and research. They generally include advanced coursework, qualifying tests, a dissertation based on original research, and a dissertation presentation.

Popular Courses to Study in UK vs USA

Admission Requirements in UK vs USA

Admission standards in the United Kingdom and the United States show their different approaches to education. The United Kingdom focuses on academic performance and subject specialisation. In contrast, the United States considers every aspect of the student, including standardised exam results, extracurricular activities, and more. A brief of the admission requirements in both countries is mentioned below.

UK Admission Requirements

Admission criteria for UK universities vary based on the programme, university, and nationality. A brief of the academic requirements is provided below:

Academic Prerequisites

• Undergraduate: Candidates must have high scores in their last secondary school examinations (GCSEs and A-Levels or equivalents). The particular grade requirement will vary depending on the curriculum and the university's competitiveness.

• Postgraduate (Masters): A Bachelor's degree (Hons) from a recognised university is often required, along with a minimum grade point average (GPA). Some programmes may also need particular subject requirements.

English Language Proficiency

Since most programmes are taught in English, you must demonstrate English language proficiency. This is typically done using standardised exams such as:

• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Most UK universities need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0-6.5.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A TOEFL iBT score of 100 or more is regarded as acceptable; however, most prestigious UK colleges prefer TOEFL scores ranging from 92 to 100 or higher.

• PTE Academic (the Pearson Test of English Academic): Candidates planning to study in the UK would require an overall PTE score of 59 to meet their UKVi PTE requirement.

Application Process

For undergraduate courses, universities in the UK typically use a centralised system known as UCAS (institutions and Colleges Admissions Service). Along with your application, you must provide academic transcripts, English language test results, a personal statement detailing your academic goals and motivations, and reference letters (usually academic or professional). Postgraduate admissions are processed via the application form available on the university's official website.

Deadlines

Application deadlines can vary depending on the programme and university. There are typically two deadlines:

• Early Deadline usually in the month of October

• Standard Deadline is in the month of January.

US Admission Requirements

Admission criteria for universities in the United States vary based on the institution, course (undergraduate or graduate), and even the state in which the university is situated. However, here's an overview of the regular requirements:

Academic Prerequisites

• High school diploma or equivalent: This is the minimum prerequisite for undergraduate students.

• Standardised exams (optional for some institutions): Many colleges require or suggest standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate applications and the GRE or GMAT for graduate admissions.

• GPA: Most institutions are going to consider your GPA (Grade Point Average) to evaluate your academic achievement in high school (or prior institution for transfers).

English Language Proficiency

If you are applying from outside the United States and your education was not mainly in English, you may be asked to demonstrate English proficiency through a standardised exam such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Certain universities may accept alternate methods such as the Duolingo English Test.

Application Process:

The application process typically involves the following steps:

• Research and Choose Universities

• Check Deadlines

• Complete the Application Form

• Submit standardized tests (if required)

• Attach your English Language proficiency scores

• Send your official transcripts

• Attach Letters of Recommendation (Optional for some institutions)

• Lastly, pay the application fee.

Deadlines:

Application deadlines vary depending on the university, program, and term (fall, spring, summer) you are applying for. Application types are mentioned below:

• Early Decision/Action

• Regular Decision

• Rolling Admissions

UK or USA Which is Better for Indian Students for Masters

According to the media reports, there has been a jump of 35 per cent in students going to USA, whereas due to visa clampdown, a decline of more than 21,800 students have been seen in the candidates planning to study in UK. Master’s programmes in the UK are generally shorter than those in USA. The course duration for master’s in UK is approximately 1 to 2 years, however, in USA, the master’s programme duration is 2-3 years. For admission to US universities, GMAT scores or GRE scores plays a significant role.

All international students must submit a proof of English language proficiency, if English is not their first language. Work experience is not mandatory for UK or USA universities, however, it would be good to have some work experience if applying for management programmes. Here we have provided some detail on master programmes in both UK and USA.

UK or USA Which is Better for Masters?

UK or USA Which is Better for Living?

The United Kingdom provides international learners with a high-quality education that is recognised across the world. Similarly, the United States is known for providing excellent educational opportunities for foreign students. For Indian students, education in the United States is far more expensive than in the United Kingdom. The cost of living in US vs UK, including rent, in the UK is 16.3% cheaper than in the US.

The average UK undergraduate course fee in 2024 is between EUR 11,400 and 38,000, while master's degrees cost between EUR 9,000 and 30,000. In contrast, average fees in the United States for international students range between USD 10,000 and USD 38,000 per year for undergraduate studies and USD 25,000 to USD 60,000 per year for master's programmes. A detailed course fee for Indian students is mentioned below.

UK vs USA Tuition Fees for Indian Students

UK vs USA for Living Expenses 2024

Scholarships in UK vs USA 2024

International students can choose from a wide range of scholarships and financial assistance opportunities provided by both public and private colleges in the United Kingdom and the United States. They can get further information from the official websites of the colleges to which they are interested in applying, as well as the websites of these countries.

Scholarships in UK vs USA

Also read:

• Student education loan for the UK

• Scholarships in USA for international students

UK vs USA Universities Ranking

International students can pursue high-quality education and research opportunities in both the United Kingdom and the United States. UK and USA universities are ranked among the top universities in the world 2024. However, choosing the best educational institution between the two countries is quite challenging for international students. We created a list of a few top-ranked universities in the UK and USA for Indian students based on the QS rating 2024.

Top 2024 Universities in UK

Some of the top universities in UK are ranked by QS Ranking Report 2024 on a variety of criteria such as infrastructure, education, student life, and more. These universities offer a high-quality education with good career opportunities. A list of the top 10 universities in UK is mentioned below.

Best Universities in UK 2024

Top 2024 Universities in USA

Some of the top universities in USA are ranked by QS Ranking Report 2024 on a variety of criteria such as infrastructure, education, student life and more. These universities offer a high-quality education with good career opportunities. A list of top 10 universities in USA is mentioned below.

Best Universities in USA 2024

UK or USA which is better for a job?

Both the United Kingdom and the United States provide interesting career and post-study opportunities for overseas students studying there. Below is a breakdown of possible job prospects and post-study work alternatives for international students in the UK and USA:

Employment Sectors in the UK

The most common employment sectors in the UK are:

• Engineering

• Information Technology

• Business, Finance, and Consulting

• Healthcare

• Law

Post-Study Work in UK

A graduate visa allows you to stay in the UK for at least two years after successfully finishing a course in that country. You must be in the country while applying for a job after studying in the UK, and must meet the qualifying requirements. A graduate visa is valid for two years, however, if you hold a PhD or other doctorate certification, it will be valid for three years.

Note: You cannot extend your Graduate visa. Still, you could be eligible to move to another visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa.

Employment Sectors in USA

The most popular employment sectors in the USA are:

• Healthcare

• Finance

• Information technology

• Construction

• Hospitality industry

Post-Study Work in USA

The United States has three categories of student visas: F1, M1, and J1. International students require an F1 visa in order to work temporarily in their field of study. An F1 visa holder can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows overseas students to stay and work in the United States for up to three years after they complete their studies. Students can apply for a STEM OPT Extension by requesting an I-20 as early as 90 days before their current 12-month OPT expires. An H-1B Visa is valid for three years and can be extended for up to six years.

Students also liked:

• Popular short term courses in the UK

• Work after study in USA

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• Admission intakes in USA

Conclusion: UK or USA Which is Better for Indian Students?

UK and USA both are the top study abroad destinations for Indian students. Every year, thousands of students migrate to UK and USA to pursue their higher studies. Growth opportunities and career prospects are similar in both the countries, and with the post study work visa, they can stay up to 2-3 years in both UK and USA.

Both UK and the USA offer top ranked universities such as Oxford University, Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and more. However, if we have a look at the education system of both countries, the education in UK is similar to that of India, making it more convenient for Indian students. Unlike in USA, the UK does not require SAT scores or ACT scores for admission to undergraduate programmes. And the course duration in UK is less than the programme duration in USA. Even, the cost of living in UK is less than the cost of sudying in USA, making it an affordable alternative in comparison to the USA.