<p>I'm a sophomore in high school at the moment and seriously considering going to the United Kingdom for University. I am over there a lot, as I have many relatives living over there that I visit frequently. Although I would really like to go, I am slightly nervous. I don't get homesick, I know I will be fine in that department, but I don't know about the academics. Are they really that much harder than the US's? I don't want to go over there and not be able to handle it. For my junior and senior years of high school I am taking four AP classes: Biology and English next year and Calculus and Chemistry senior year. Are there many Americans over there studying? Is it frowned upon to go there as an Undergraduate?</p>
<p>There are definitely Americans, especially at the better schools, but frankly most Americans who look decide they prefer US colleges for the lifestyle and broader education. In the UK college is 3 years, you must specialize from the start and there is little opportunity to study outside your major. So many seek an education in the US for the renowned “experience.” Also realize there’s little to no aid, so you have to be able to afford it.</p>
<p>The UK does have a less flexible education system. But: all classes (and lectures) at good universities are taught by professors as opposed to graduate students, as in some of the US universiites. Also, classes in the UK follow the tutorial system so the student-to-teacher ratio is far lower. And you could always choose a combined degree / joint honours program to overcome the inflexibility issue.</p>
<p>Most importantly: A top UK university is MUCH easier to get into than a top US university. However, ECs are going to be of little use to you here. It all boils down to your SAT and AP/ IB scores (IB is preferred). And ofcourse, your personal statement and interview.
GPA DOES NOT COUNT. </p>
<p>Also, it depends on your course. Unlike in the US, the course you are applying for decides how easy it is going to be for you to get into university, since the aceeptance levels within a university vary drastically depending on the demand for the course you’ve chosen</p>
<p>I would say, especially if you have a low GPA or weak ECs but good SAT scores and AP grades, go for it!!</p>
<p>I don’t see how its frowned upon considering Britain’s “special” relationship with the US lol.</p>
<p>American’s are well-represented particularly at the London schools (UCL, LSE, Kings etc).</p>
<p>It depends what Uni you’re looking at applying to.</p>
<p>And yes like the person mentioned above Britain’s application system is not holistic, its fully academic: so ECs are worth little to nothing.</p>