Thought about applying to US universities instead?
Attending a top private school in the UK used to be an almost guaranteed ticket to Oxford or Cambridge University. But that story is quickly changing.
In 2011, 36.9% of all acceptances were students from private schools. Now in 2022, they account for only 25.8%.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that more and more students from top private schools are now looking to the US as additional or sometimes even replacement university options.
Colleges like Harvard, Yale, UPenn and Duke have become very popular options for ambitious UK students. In fact, over 8,000 UK students are studying in the US right now.
Why study in the US?
Higher salaries
Graduates from top US universities earn double the average starting salary than Oxbridge alumni. A Computer Science major for example could earn $129,000 after leaving Harvard vs £44,000 from Oxford.
Employability
With a degree from a top US university you are universally employable, companies like Google, Amazon and Facebook come to campus each year to hire fresh graduates.
Liberal arts curriculum
Students don't need to decide on their major until the end of the second year, making this a great option for those who can't decide what to study or are not ready to give up all their subjects.
Applying to the US is not easy!
The US application process is very different from what you’re used to in the UK. US universities ask for a lot more than just strong academics.
Students must also demonstrate innovative extracurricular engagement and present clear personal qualities through their essays that showcase their fit for the specific university.
The application process is difficult to navigate, which is why so many students seek external support.
Academics
Alongside A/A* grades top universities would look for 1500+ SAT / 32+ ACT scores. However good scores alone are not enough to gain you admission!
Extracurriculars
They want to see evidence of consistent extracurricular engagement in something you're passionate about. They also want to see evidence of leadership; students who take on responsibility and inspire those around them.
Essays
This is your opportunity for the Admissions Officer to really get to know you, it's a reflective, creative and personal essay. But, they are more interested in the effect the event had on you than the story itself.
Personal qualities
Admissions Officers want to ensure that their university is the best fit for both you and them. They are looking for students that will compliment both the classroom dormitory atmosphere.
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Crimson is here to help!
Each Crimson programme is tailored to the student and delivered by a carefully selected team of mentors who provide focused support with each and every aspect of the process.
We are proud to say that students who work with us are four times as likely to get into their dream university than those who apply alone.
By speaking to one of our Academic Advisors you will receive;
- A full review of your child’s academic and extracurricular profile
- Tailored guidance as to their suitable university pathways
- An outline of what they need to do to achieve their goals
University strategy
Multi-year support with application preparation and submission with the help of a personalised roadmap.
Admission test tutoring
One-to-one sessions covering test content, technique and confidence for the best chance of getting a great score.
Essay development
Support with personal essay ideation, tone, language and structure as well as multi-draft feedback.
Extracurricular mentoring
Extracurricular and leadership project planning, execution and reporting to ensure passion and impact are demonstrated in the application.
Interview preparation
Coaching on how to answer common questions and communicate a story persuasively.
Financial aid and scholarship strategy
Guidance on the options, requirements and help completing necessary paperwork.
Hear from Crimson students
The words of brilliant Crimson students who achieved their goals working with us
Let's talk about your university goals!
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