University opportunities in the UK
I'm often asked about possibilities of studying in the UK. Here is a short overview of UK colleges as there are some excellent programs to explore, both in the arts and in traditional academic subjects. There are some compelling reasons to consider a school in the UK as well as some significant differences from the U.S.:
The most significant difference is that UK schools are three years allowing for a significant financial savings in addition to school fees usually being less expensive as well. Note though that colleges in Scotland follow a four year program as do Cambridge and Oxford in England.
Tuition usually ranges from 10,000GBP to 26,000GBP per year and as in the U.S. housing costs then vary and London is as expensive as New York City. When comparing, you also need to consider travel costs, ease of travel, and vacation schedules which may differ from the U.S.
In the UK you apply directly to a major (they call them "courses") and it is difficult, if not impossible, to change your course once you are accepted. This is similar to direct admit programs in the U.S. for engineering, nursing, business and the like. For students who are certain of their area of study this allows you to receive a degree in three years, for students uncertain of your area of study this can cause problems as changing can mean reapplying and restarting your education.
In the arts several universities offer a "foundation year" which allows students with minimal experience to develop skills and then progress into the three year program, bringing your university years to four years.
While you can apply to some colleges using the Common Application as you will for many U.S. schools, UK schools also use an application program called UCAS, as well as direct applications to specific universities. The UCAS platform includes a research component where you can search for schools based on specific areas of interest.
UCAS sections are similar to sections of the Common Application: personal details, course/program (major) choices, educational history, employment history, references, supplementals usually by invitation for the arts, and personal statement (4,000 characters, or 47 lines max).
Many schools also accept FAFSA information, offer funding through Sallie Mae, offer GI Bill Funding, and may have merit aid opportunities.
Most UK schools have liaisons for international students as well as comprehensive admissions information on their websites. Similar to the U.S. you should carefully check the websites to be certain of the acceptance criteria.
If you're looking to expand your horizons, and perhaps reduce your tuition costs, look to the UK. There are some fantastic creative programs ranging from classical acting to environmentally conscious fashion design and everything in between. With about 130 UK colleges and universities to research, there is something for all courses of study.