USA vs UK University Admissions: Breaking Down the Key Differences

Join us on Tuesday, October 14 at 4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET to discover how higher education in the UK differs from the US, and how you can help your teen explore the two admissions systems to make one of the most important decisions about their future.

Ideal for families with teens in grades 8-11.

Two Paths, One Big Decision: Helping Your Teen Understand US vs. UK Admissions

More and more teens are exploring UK universities as a compelling alternative to US colleges.

If your student is considering both options, you’ve likely realized these two systems differ significantly, from how students are evaluated to what kind of college experience they’ll have.

Our admissions experts will break down these differences and compare/contrast both educational systems. You’ll leave with smart strategies, clear next steps, and the confidence to help your student choose the right path forward.

You’ll learn:

Key distinctions between US and UK university admissions
How differing admissions priorities will shape your
student’s application processes
What essays are required in both systems and how they are different
Actionable strategies and practical ways to prepare for both application pathways

Register now and join us live to learn how to guide your student toward the university path that’s the best fit for their future.

Theodore (Theo) Twidwell

Macalester College Graduate

Theo has guided students from around the world through the admissions process, helping them earn acceptances to highly selective institutions in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Europe. As a first-generation college graduate, he brings a deep appreciation for the transformative power of higher education and works to ensure his students feel confident and supported along the way. Fluent in Spanish, Theo spent five years as an independent counselor in Mexico City, where he also led workshops for school counselors on topics ranging from the Common App to stress management. Now back in California, he continues to help families navigate both U.S. and international admissions while enjoying his passions for swimming, national parks, and history.

Ida Lonnqvist

University of Cambridge Graduate

Ida brings international experience and a passion for student storytelling to her work as a college counselor. A graduate of the University of Cambridge and the University of Sussex, she has guided students to selective institutions including USC, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, and Carnegie Mellon. With a background that spans teaching, essay coaching, and student support across multiple countries, she is fluent in Finnish and Swedish and well-versed in international curricula like the IB, A-Levels, and the French Lycée system. Known for her compassionate and individualized style, Ida helps students move from self-doubt to self-assurance while discovering the stories that make their applications shine.