Insights | UK versus US university admissions

Whether applying to a UK or US school, a substantial piece of writing will almost certainly be required by universities in both countries. The personal statement is where applicants to the UK explain why they are a good fit for the course for which they are applying. However, in the US applicants are usually required to write an essay on any topic as long as it provides additional insight into something about the pupil such as their character, values or their motivation for studying their chosen major. 

In both countries, universities require applicants to have someone write a letter on their behalf. In the UK, this is usually an academic reference that emphasises the applicant's qualifications for the specific course they are applying to, similar to a personal statement. On the other hand, US colleges typically expect applicants to submit two or three recommendation letters from teachers or individuals who are familiar with the pupil and can provide insights on their classroom performance or contributions to the community. 

For the majority of pupils, some sort of statement about their extracurricular activities completes the application. In the UK activities are highlighted to further demonstrate that the pupil is well-prepared for the course(s) they have chosen. This usually appears in the personal statement and/or the academic reference. In the US, regardless of the major a pupil plans to pursue, a much broader list of activities is submitted, with the focus instead being on demonstrating how the pupil pursued their passions — academic or otherwise — and contributed to their community. 

Regardless of where you apply, this process must begin long before you even submit your first application. Successful applicants constantly learn – from textbooks, lectures, discussions, debates, independent study, scientific experiments, group projects and any other activities that broaden their intellectual horizons and maximise their potential. The next phase involves pupils reflecting on the topics and methods of instruction that most interest them and then researching which universities provide the best chance to continue pursuing these. Then, when the time comes to begin applying, we suggest dividing the process into smaller tasks and distributing them over a longer period. This allows you to manage coursework and other responsibilities alongside the application process. 

 
These steps, along with the support of our Higher Education and Careers team, will ensure that your child gets admitted to the school of their choice. Throughout your child’s Senior School years, we provide personalised guidance on every aspect of the application process with classes, workshops and one-on-one meetings. And we remain up to date on the constantly evolving admissions policies at the world’s top universities. So, pupils and parents can rest assured knowing that, when the time comes to click ‘send’, they will be well on their way to a bright future.  

Regardless of which path you choose, remember to celebrate your successes. Some of our year 13 pupils are already starting to do just that. This month, one of our pupils has received an offer to study law at Oxford University. This is the third year in a row that a Wellington pupil has received an Oxbridge offer!