higher education in great britain essay

The Post-war Expansion of the British Higher Education System and Its Impact on Sociology

• First Online: 29 September 2020

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• Plamena Panayotova 2  

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The expansion and democratisation of British higher education began slowly after the Second World War, increasing the size and number of British universities, and liberalising their structure, aims and overall character. This chapter explains how the reforms in the higher education system created unprecedented conditions favourable for the development of non-vocational, financially undemanding, socially relevant and women- and working-class-friendly academic subjects. In a very short space of time, sociology, which could easily match this profile, turned from a small and unattractive subject, to one of the most popular academic subjects. The number of sociology students, staff, departments and outputs grew to a remarkable degree.

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I’m especially grateful to Professor Peter Mandler for an informative and stimulating discussion of the development of higher education in the post-war period, which helped me enhance and extend the arguments I present here. Peter Mandler has written extensively on this topic—for full details on the process of democratisation, see Mandler ( 2014 , 2015a , b , 2016 , 2017 ).

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Panayotova, P. (2020). The Post-war Expansion of the British Higher Education System and Its Impact on Sociology. In: Sociology and Statistics in Britain, 1833–1979. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-55133-9_11

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The UK higher education system explained

The UK is home to one of the most prestigious higher education systems in the world. In this guide, we offer a comprehensive overview of how universities operate in the UK.

The UK has one of the most established and respected higher education systems in the world, with numerous universities consistently ranked among the best globally. Institutions like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London are regularly placed in the top 10 of the QS World University Rankings .

Renowned for delivering world-class education, the UK is a top destination for international students seeking academic excellence. If you’re considering studying in the UK, you’ve come to the right place.

Read on to explore everything you need to know about the UK higher education system, including the various degree options, grading and classification systems.

Table of contents:

Types of institutions in the uk higher education system, types of degrees and qualifications, academic culture in the uk, grading and classification.

Higher education institutions in the UK are either:

• Degree-awarding ‘recognised bodies’ such as universities and colleges. Across the UK, as many as 166 universities offer study programmes in a wide range of fields, at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Recognised bodies have the authority to award bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees, as well as certain other higher education qualifications depending on the type of institution.
• Non-degree awarding. They provide bridging courses to help students gain entry into a degree-awarding programme. Although these institutions cannot grant degrees, they offer a variety of vocationally oriented and bridging programmes that may lead directly to employment, a degree programme, or a focus on developing a specific technical skill set.

Like other popular study destinations, the UK offers degrees at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The country also provides plenty of non-degree study programmes designed as pathways to a degree or to develop professional skills.

Undergraduate qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (ba, bsc).

Bachelor's degrees  in the UK typically take three years to complete for full-time students. Unlike in some other countries, where students may choose a ‘major’ after exploring different subjects, students in the UK usually apply directly to a specific course of study.

University students in the UK focus on their chosen subject area from the start, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physiotherapy . This structure provides students with in-depth knowledge and expertise in their chosen field from the beginning of their degree programme.

Bachelor's degrees in the UK can be awarded as either 'Ordinary' or 'Honours' degrees, depending on the student’s academic performance. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, an Honours degree typically indicates a higher level of academic achievement within the same three-year timeframe as an Ordinary degree.

In contrast, in Scotland, an Honours degree usually requires four years of study, involving more specialised coursework and often a dissertation, while an Ordinary degree is completed in three years.

Foundation degree

A  foundation programme  is a structured one-year course designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for degree-level study. Often referred to as a 'gateway' or 'year-zero' programme, it focuses on developing both academic skills and the subject-specific understanding needed for a chosen degree.

Foundation degrees are typically suited for students who didn't achieve the expected results in their A-Levels or International Baccalaureate , as well as for professionals who haven't had the chance to pursue higher education but have demonstrated the potential to succeed academically.

Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) and Higher National Diploma (HND)

A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) is an academic qualification in the UK equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. It typically involves two years of full-time study and can be a standalone qualification or a step towards completing a full bachelor's degree.

Students pursuing a DipHE can do so in a variety of subjects, such as nursing, social work and other academic areas. Obtaining a DipHE can lead directly to employment or further studies.

A Higher National Diploma (HND) is another two-year qualification offered in the UK focusing on practical and career-oriented training. HNDs are similar to DipHEs in terms of level, but they are more geared towards preparing students for specific careers in areas like engineering, business, or creative industries.

HNDs are well-regarded by employers and can also be used as a stepping stone to the final year of a bachelor’s degree, allowing students to 'top up' their qualifications to a full degree.

Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)

You can earn a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) from a university or college in the UK after completing the first year of a degree programme. It demonstrates that you have gained foundational knowledge and skills in a particular subject.

Unlike a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes three or four years to complete and involves more advanced study, a CertHE is a shorter course that focuses on the first year of the degree.

It’s a good option if you want to enhance your education and job prospects without committing to a full degree right away. You can also build on it to progress towards a bachelor’s degree or other higher qualifications in the future.

Postgraduate qualifications

There is a diverse range of postgraduate programmes available in the UK, including master’s degrees, doctorate programmes, postgraduate diplomas, professional and vocational qualifications and conversion courses. 

Postgraduate studies are more specialised and intensive compared to undergraduate courses, focusing on a specific area of study and often requiring a greater level of commitment and research.

Master’s degree

A master’s degree can be either a taught programme or a research-based one, typically lasting one year. Taught master’s degrees involve a structured curriculum with classes, assignments and exams, while research-based master’s degrees focus primarily on independent research and a substantial thesis or project.

Both types of programmes offer advanced knowledge and skills in a specific field, preparing graduates for professional advancement or further academic study.

Doctoral degrees

Doctoral degrees, such as a PhD , can take up to seven years to complete, depending on the field of study and the nature of the research.

A PhD is the highest academic qualification available at UK institutions and represents a significant contribution to original research. It involves conducting original research, producing a comprehensive thesis, and often includes rigorous examinations or viva voce assessments.

Achieving a PhD demonstrates a high level of expertise and can open doors to advanced career opportunities in academia, research and professional practice.

Postgraduate certificates (PGCert) and diplomas (PGDip)

If you want to pursue postgraduate education but are unsure about committing too much time, a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) or diploma (PGDip) could suit your needs.

PGCerts and PGDips are at the same level as master's degrees, but their duration is shorter. PGCerts are the shortest postgraduate programmes available in the UK: you can complete one within 15 weeks. As for PGDips, they usually require 30 weeks to complete. On the contrary, it will take you a year to finish a master's degree if you study full-time.

Unlike a master's degree, PGCerts and PGDips don't require students to submit a dissertation. 

Since PGCerts and PGDips require less time and effort to obtain, they are ideal options for individuals who want to enhance their career prospects with a postgraduate qualification but aren't in a position to invest in extensive academic research.

Conversion courses

Conversion courses are vocational programmes designed for graduates who wish to change their field of study after completing their first degree. The programmes provide the necessary knowledge for the workforce or entry into a different academic programme.

The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), tailored to non-law graduates who want to enter the legal profession, is an example of a conversion course.

University culture in the UK places a strong emphasis on initiative and self-motivation. Students are expected to manage their academic progress, follow coursework independently and actively engage with the material.

Classes in UK universities vary in format but typically include a combination of lectures, tutorials or seminars and practical sessions.

In tutorials and seminars, discussion is highly encouraged, and students are expected to express their opinions, even if they differ from those of the professor. This open exchange of ideas is seen as a sign of engagement with the course content.

Lectures often serve as a starting point for deeper exploration in tutorials, where students are encouraged to develop their own perspectives based on the concepts introduced.

Professors frequently assign weekly readings and short tasks to help students prepare for these discussions and build a solid foundation in the subject. While these tasks are important for learning, they are rarely graded.

Examinations and assessment

Assessment in UK universities typically involves a mix of coursework and exams. Longer-form tasks, such as research essays or extended investigations, are common and often carry significant weight.

Examinations are also a key component of the assessment process, with some courses featuring final exams that may count for a large portion, or even 100%, of the overall grade. This structure means that consistent effort throughout the course is essential for success.

Undergraduate degrees

The table below outlines the typical  undergraduate grading classifications  in the UK. It is important to note that the Open University  (OU), a distance-learning institution with an open entry policy, uses different grade boundaries compared to most traditional universities:

Remember to always confirm the specific grading criteria and classifications with your university, as grading policies can vary slightly between institutions.

Postgraduate degrees

In the UK, postgraduate degrees are classified based on the following grading criteria:

With a clear understanding of how the UK higher education system works, you might be ready to explore which courses are available to you. Our course search feature at the bottom of this page can help you find the perfect programme to suit your academic and career goals.

'Study in the UK' eBook

Enjoy what you’ve read? We’ve condensed the above popular topics about studying in the UK into one handy digital book.

Search for a course

Understanding the Undergraduate Grading System in the UK

Updated to include 21/22 HESA Qualifying Rates. The British undergraduate degree classification system is a university grading scheme for undergraduate degrees (bachelor's degrees and integrated master's degrees) in the UK. It has been applied in other countries, with slight variations. When applying to study for an undergraduate degree in the UK, many students are not aware that they have an option to study for a regular degree or a degree with honours.

How to apply to study in the UK

The British education system is one of the most prestigious in the world. A degree from a top UK university will certainly help you to succeed in your chosen career. However, with universities being well-known internationally, this leads to a competitive application process. In this article, we review and simplify the application process so you know exactly what to expect.   Understanding the higher education system in the UK  

Are international students eligible for Clearing?

As an international student, it’s possible that you may have heard of a process called clearing. Although you may be aware of it, it may also be true that you’re not entirely sure what clearing is or how it relates to you. We’re here to take you through all aspects of the process, demystify any preconceptions that you may have and equip you with all the necessary knowledge should you go through clearing yourself.   What is clearing?  First

University applications: An admission officers top tips

As an international student getting to grips with the application process can sometimes seem like an uphill battle. You may not be sure what to include with your application, how long it will take to hear back from a university and how best to increase the chances of making a positive impact on the person evaluating your application. With this in mind we decided to pick the brains of those making the decisions, admissions officers. We give you exclusive access to

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Higher Education System

The UK has a variety of higher education opportunities. With over 100 universities offering various degree programs for students from the UK and around the world, there is no shortage of options. In the UK about one-third of all students go on to some form of higher education and this number is well over 50% for students from Scotland. This makes competition for schools very fierce and so it is advised to apply early for courses.

In the UK most undergraduate degree programs take three years to finish. However, the “sandwich course” is increasing in popularity, which is four years and involves one year in the workplace (normally in your third year). In Scotland the courses are four years for undergraduate programs.

Graduate or masters programs are generally shorter in length and undertaken after completion of an undergraduate program. Some professional degrees like medicine, veterinary, law etc., have longer programs that can take as many as five years.

International students pay the full school fees in the UK, and the total cost will vary depending on the school.

Choosing the right school is dependent on a large number of factors such as:

• Location of the school?
• How much does it cost?
• Size of the school?
• Access to home comforts? Place of worship, home foods?
• Courses available?

Which school is best for you can be a hard decision to make, so start early, take your time, and research as much as you can to help narrow your choices down. These resources can be useful in your search:

• List of UK Universities and Websites
• UKCOSA - Advice for International Students

Please note that Scotland has a separate education system and does not conform to the above structure. Please learn more about the Scottish Education System .

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Education system in UK – Cause & Effect

Introduction Education in the UK is devolved with each of the smaller countries within the UK. This means there are governments in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland that deal with education their own way. There are five stages of education in the UK, which include early years teaching, primary school, secondary school, Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE). In my cause and effect essay, I show the effect of school rules and rankings and graduation rates in the UK. Cause The UK is traditionally one of the highest ranked countries when it comes to education, but over recent years, their ranking against the world has stagnated a little, especially when it comes to PISA tests (Program for International Student Assessment).

Effect The UK education system is still good and ranked highly, but it has caused more people to consider teaching their children at home. There are a growing number of parents that are teaching their children at home in the UK. The numbers are still small in comparison to the number of children that attend school. Part of the reason that there are more children being taught at home is because there are now free and easy-to-use tools on the Internet that parents can use to teach their child a little easier than before. Cause It is compulsory for children to attend school from the age of four in Northern Ireland and five in the rest of the UK, and children are not allowed to leave school until the age of 16. The only way to avoid going to school is via home schooling, but a child must still complete a curriculum that is overseen by a tutor upon occasion. Effect It has become more difficult for students to miss school, and many have to attend school no matter what. However, thanks to the Internet, students are discovering that if they behave badly then they can be expelled. If they are not accepted into other schools, then their parents are forced to teach them from home. Cause The University and college system in the UK is truly top class, with many of the Universities and colleges having notoriety and esteem around the world. Graduation rates within UK colleges and Universities are very high, and any student in the UK can find funding in order to attend University apart from in special circumstances. Effect The UK stands in second place across Europe and in sixth place worldwide when higher education from Universities and colleges is counted in with the figures whilst ranking. There are so many students attending college and so many graduating that the UK world ranking and European ranking is very high. If graduation rates from colleges and Universities were not counted, then the UK is no longer second place in Europe when it comes to education rankings.

Conclusion The UK education system is clearly very good and of a very high standard, though some of their high rankings on the world stage are backed up by their very strong college system and even stronger University system, with the college system giving A-level qualifications and Universities giving degrees.

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British education system

An introduction to the british education system.

The education system in the UK is divided into four main parts, primary education, secondary education, further education and higher education.

The education system in the UK is also split into "key stages" which breaks down as follows:

• Key Stage 1:  5 to 7 years old
• Key Stage 2:  7 to 11 years old
• Key Stage 3:  11 to 14 years old
• Key Stage 4:  14 to 16 years old

UK primary education

Primary school education begins in the UK at age 5 and continues until age 11, comprising key stages one and two under the UK educational system.

Some primary schools are split up into Infant and Junior levels. These are usually separate schools on the same site. The infant age range (Key Stage 1) is from age 5 to 7. The Junior age range (Key Stage 2) is from age 7 to 11. The year groups at primary School level are:

Year R (Reception) (age 4 – 5) Year 1 (age 5 - 6) Year 2 (age 6 - 7) The year when SATs testing takes place for Key Stage 1 Year 3 (age 7 - 8) Year 4 (age 8 - 9) Year 5 (age 9 - 10) Year 6 (age 10 - 11) The year when SATs testing takes place for Key Stage 2

secondary school - years 7 and 8

Years 7 and 8 are the first two years of secondary school education in the UK. In some independent schools they are included in the Junior School, in others, they are part of the Senior School. 

Under the UK school system, all students study English, Maths, Sciences, a Humanity and a Modern Language. Besides these subjects, each school has a list with optional subjects (Art, Music, Drama, Latin, Sport Science, Design Technology, Computer Science),  and  students may choose a few subjects that interest them. 

In some schools, students sit the Common Entrance Exam in year 7. There are 3 examination sessions, in November, January and May/June. The transition from Junior to Senior School (from year 8 to year 9) may be conditioned upon the Common Entrance Exam results in those schools.

secondary school - year 9

Year 9 is a very important year in the British school system, as most of the students make the transition from Junior School to Senior School. It is also a very good foundation for the GCSE programme and it is an entry point to all schools. 

Students study English, Maths, Sciences, Humanity and Languages. In addition, students choose a few subjects from the optional subject list offered by each school. 

secondary education - years 10 and 11

GCSE programme

In the last two years of secondary education, which are called Year 10 and Year 11, starting at age 14, students prepare for GCSE exams that are taken after two years (General Certificate of Secondary Education).

In the UK school system, during the GCSE programme, students study between 9 and 12 subjects. Some of them are compulsory (English, Math, 2/3 Sciences, History/Geography, a Modern Language etc.), some are chosen by each student according to their abilities and preferences. At the end of the 2 year GCSE programme, following the examinations on each studied subject, students receive their GCSE Certificates.

The chosen subjects and the GCSE results are very important for their Further Studies (A-Level or IB) and for their University admission.

Intensive 1 year GCSE

Some schools offer a 1 Year GCSE programme in Year 11 for international students seeking a school education in the UK. These intensive, one year courses, are available for students aged 15 plus, with the appropriate academic level from their own country. Fewer subjects are studied (maximum 6).

The IGCSE programme ( International  General Certificate of Secondary Education) prepare international students for A-Level and/or IB.

Students study between 5 and 7 subjects, English, Maths and Science being included. Each school has a list of available subjects for IGCSE students. At the end of Year 11, students take exams in each studied subject and receive IGCSE Certificates.

university preparation - years 12 and 13

A level study

In the UK school system, once a student reaches the age of 16, they can start a 2 year programme which leads to A (Advanced) level examinations. Students specialise in 3 or 4 subjects, that are usually relevant to the degree subject they wish to follow at university. A levels are state examinations and are recognised by all UK universities and by institutions worldwide.

At the end of Year 13, following the examinations in each subject, the students receive A level Certificates.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Those who would like to study more than 3-4 subjects, may continue their studies in a broader number of subjects with the International Baccaularete Diploma Programme, offered by some independent schools.

During the IB, students study 6 subjects, 3 at higher level (HL) and 3 at standard level (SL). Each school offers different subjects at different study levels (HL/SL). The IB programme also includes a compulsory Core programme consisting of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

Students take written examinations on each subject at the end of their courses.

further education - vocational courses

International students can either choose a state sixth form college or a college of further education as an alternative to private education. Both offer GCSE and A level courses for students from the age of 16. Colleges of further education also offer foundation and diploma courses. All colleges can prepare students for entry to a  UK university or any university in the world. Bright World works with a number of state colleges in the UK which provide a multitude of vocational and academic courses. These courses can enable students to pursue their chosen career or to gain a place at a university of their choice.

The British school system also extends to BTEC courses which are designed for students who would like to develop practical knowledge and skills in a specific subject (Business, Psychology, Engineering, Sport, Art & Design) and find traditional exams challenging. Focussing on practical, skills-based learning, the BTEC students are assessed during the course. After each unit students are assessed through assignments, tasks or tests, and not at the end of the programme as it happens with GCSE or A-Level students.

university - foundation courses

From age 17, international students can opt to study one year foundation programmes, instead of A levels or IB. These courses lead to private examinations that are an alternative to A levels. Foundation courses at colleges are recognised by universities with whom they have partnerships.

Some universities also offer foundation courses that lead onto their own degree programmes.

Bright World has partnerships with a number of colleges and Pathway providers and can help place students into Foundation and Diploma courses in London and across the UK.

university - undergraduate study

In the UK, a British bachelors degree normally takes three years to complete and most are awarded at honours level. Examples of first degrees are: BA (Bachelor of Arts), BEng (Bachelor of Engineering), and BSc (Bachelor of Science).

State colleges offer some 2 year vocational diplomas that grant exemption from the first and sometimes second year of a degree programme. Some private tutorial colleges offer a one year diploma programme which is equivalent to year 1 of university. Students taking 1 year diplomas are awarded second year entry at some universities.

university - postgraduate study

Postgraduate courses in the UK education system are very intensive. This means that the courses are usually much shorter than in other countries. A master's degree typically takes 12 months to complete, for example an MA - Master of Arts and an MEng - Master of Engineering. An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a high profile Masters course which can take 2 years. Applicants will usually be high achieving with at least 2 years managerial experience. A PhD research degree in the UK can take between 2 and 7 years.

boarding schools

Bright World works almost exclusively with privately funded schools and colleges. A boarding school is a residential school where pupils live and study during the school year. There are approximately 500 boarding schools across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

UK boarding schools offer pupils an outstanding education, helping them to develop their skills and progress to university. All UK boarding schools have to meet strict government standards on the quality of their teaching, facilities and student care.

Many UK boarding schools combine beautiful, centuries-old buildings with a mix of modern classrooms and traditional architecture. The excellent facilities help make living and learning a great experience and pupils will will improve their  English skills while they study.

tutorial colleges

Tutorial Colleges start at age 15 and have a more flexible programme range, focussing on fast access to UK university.

Many of the independent private sixth form colleges in Oxford, Cambridge and London work on a 'tutorial system' and are often referred to as 'tutorial colleges'. The tutorial system originates from Oxford and Cambridge Universities and is a very highly regarded and much tested system. It it is still used today and is the cornerstone of an 'Oxbridge' education. A tutorial is a small class of only a few students, in which the tutor (a lecturer or other academic faculty member) gives individual attention to the students.

state boarding schools

A state boarding school is one where you pay for boarding and the education is free. The government pays for the education as it would at any other state school in England.

Admission to state boarding schools in the UK is limited to children who are nationals of the UK and are eligible to hold a full UK passport, or those who are nationals of other European Union countries or those who have the right of residence in the UK. Please note that the holding of a BN(O) passport does not make the child eligible for a state boarding school in the UK.

F E Colleges

An FE college is an institution that provides education for those above school age (age 16). There are many types of FE colleges including, sixth form colleges, specialist colleges and adult education institutes. FE Colleges are state run and as such those members of the EU joining can benefit from free education. There is also a competitive fee structure available for non-EU international students.

pathway courses at university

If you need to improve your English language or study skills before attending a UK university, pathway providers offer unique foundation courses which often lead to direct degree-level entry upon completion. There are several private companies who operate Foundation and Diploma programmes on the campuses of UK universities. Often these courses offer accelerated access to undergraduate degrees.

universities

The UK is one of the world's most popular destination for students from overseas. In fact, more than 400,000 international students enrol each year.International students considering an education in the UK have a choice of over 140 universities and higher education institutions, each offering a great range of tertiary qualifications that will be recognised the world over. Students join a 3 year undergraduate programme or a 1 year postgraduate course.

UK university placement

For expert advice on UK and US university entry, Bright World has teamed up with Education Advisers Ltd, whose experienced consultants offer a full range of Higher Education services for international students. These range from complimentary advice on the best University Foundation courses, to bespoke Oxbridge and Medical School coaching and mentorship programmes. You can visit their websites at www.universityadvice.co.uk or www.best-schools.co.uk or call +44 1622 813870 for further information.

guardianship and school placement advice

Boarding school guardianship.

If your child is attending a boarding school you will need to nominate a UK guardian. Bright World can help you with this service.

university guardianship

If you are under 18 when you start university you will need to nominate a UK-based adult or guardian. Bright World has a programme especially for you.

boarding school placement

If you are looking for a place at a UK boarding school Bright World can help you.

enquire today

Bright world uk schools placement service.

Enquire today and receive our free Guide to British Education

read our online brochures

Bright world guardianship programme.

Bright World boarding school placements

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Education in the UK vs US: Full Comparison (2024)

Trying to decide between education in the UK vs. in the US? Our comprehensive guide covers the differences and similarities between the two systems.

Table of Contents

Education in the uk, education in the us, comparison point #1: universities, comparison point #2: admission requirements, comparison point #3: curriculum, comparison point #4: career opportunities, comparison point #5: length, comparison point #6: accommodation, comparison point #7: campus life, comparison point #8: cost, frequently asked questions (faqs).

When it comes to education at all levels, both the US and the UK are renowned globally for the quality of what they deliver. Both are therefore very popular destinations for international students.

There are however distinct differences between them, particularly when it comes to higher education. From cost to curriculum - there’s plenty to consider!

In this article, we explore the schooling system in both countries, and some of the differences and similarities when it comes to university-level study.

In the UK education system, children generally begin some formalised schooling at age four, earlier than in the US, and with a greater early focus on academics.

• In the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland), England, Wales, and Northern Ireland follow the National Curriculum , with some differences. Scotland, however, has its own system.
• The national curriculum starts in state primary schools and continues into state secondary education, which children move in to age 11+.

Examinations

• The first formal examinations at secondary level are GCSEs, which students take at 16 following a two-year GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) programme.
• In the UK school system, once a student reaches the age of 16, they can then start a 2 year programme which leads to A (Advanced) level examinations. Students specialize in 3 or 4 subjects, that are usually relevant to the degree subject they intend to follow at university. A levels are state examinations and are recognised by all UK universities and by institutions worldwide.
• Those who would like to study more than 3-4 subjects may continue their studies in a broader number of subjects with the International Baccalaureate, which is offered by some private schools.

The academic school year in the UK starts from early September and runs to mid-July, when pupils have a 6-week summer break.

In the US, most children attend some kind of part-time preschool, but state-provided education does not begin until Kindergarten (equivalent to Year 1 in the UK), and, in many districts, Kindergarten is still offered part-time.

The US system is typically divided into three levels:

• Basic: Elementary school (K - Grade 5)
• Middle school (Grades 6-8)
• High school (Grades 9–12)

Curriculum and examinations

• In the early years, there is a heavy emphasis on socialization as well as developing basic English and maths skills; children are eased into academic studies.
• The US system places less emphasis on examinations, and students remain ‘generalists’ all the way through to the end of secondary school, when they graduate with a high-school diploma at the end of Grade 12 (the equivalent of UK Year 13).
• At the end of high school, US students apply for college education based on a number of elements: their grades in all four years of high school averaged as GPA (Grade Point Average), results from various exams, teachers’ opinions, and personal achievements and extracurricular/volunteer activities.

American schools have three summer months of vacation. The academic year typically runs from August or early September until the end of May or early June.

The USA and the UK are two of the world’s top destinations for international students. Both countries dominate the international rankings of higher education institutions, however their universities and the educational systems they operate are very distinct.

• There are over 150 universities in the United Kingdom. The University of Cambridge and University of Oxford (often referred to as Oxbridge ) are generally considered the best universities in the UK, with St Andrews University, UCL, and LSE often highly ranked too.
• The 24 Russell Group universities are also recognized for their commitment to industry-leading research and an outstanding learning experience. Among this group of top universities are Durham University, Imperial College London and the University of Bristol.
• The UK’s higher education institutions are all held to strict standards by the government.
• The consistently high quality of education in the UK helps to keep it at the forefront of global research. According to the British Council, although it represents just 0.9 per cent of the global population, the UK produces 14 per cent of the world’s most highly cited scientific research .
• The USA has one of the largest education systems globally, with over 4,000 higher education institutions. Arguably the most famous are those in the Ivy League ; eight universities in the North East of America that are renowned for their academic excellence, social elitism, and admission selectivity. They include world-famous Harvard University, as well as Princeton, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, Columbia, Yale and the University of Pennsylvania.
• In many countries, post-secondary institutions are called universities. However, in the US, the words college and university are often used interchangeably.
• There are many different types of US college/university; some are public (state-funded) and others are private (privately funded). Public universities are often bigger in size than private ones and are characterized by lower tuition costs.
• There are also those termed ‘ research universities ’, which can be public or private universities, and have high research activities.
• Finally, there are community colleges ; two-year colleges that award an associate’s degrees (transferable), as well as certifications. Community college graduates most commonly transfer to four-year colleges or universities to complete their degree.
• Transferring between American universities is far more common in the US than the UK in general, and can be a great way for students to graduate with a degree from a more highly ranked institute.

At Kings, our Guaranteed Outcome programs take advantage of the transfer system to allow students to begin their US degree at one of our partner universities in Boston, New York, California, Wisconsin or Oregon before moving to a Top 50 or Top 100 university to complete their studies.

Our partner institutes provide the perfect starting point for international students to begin university-level study and acclimate to life in the US. With expert on campus guidance, theyre supported extensively to make sure they are equipped and ready to transfer after 2 years to a top ranked university in the US.

In the UK, you can apply to up to five universities (four, if you're applying for medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine). In the US, you can apply to as many universities as you want to, although the general advice is to apply to six to eight different colleges.

Below are some of the differences in terms of process.

• In the UK, every student applies to several universities through UCAS (the University and Colleges Admissions Service).
• This is a UK-based organisation that operates the application process for British universities. Here, you can choose your university options, submit your grades and personal statement and this service will store this information.
• It’s all done in one place, making it much easier. You also only need to write one personal statement; a short essay about why you want to study your intended degree course.
• In the US, the process of applying to university can be longer and more complex.
• Students have two choices when it comes to university applications; apply to each university directly , going through each university admissions department, or apply through the Common Application .
• Whilst it’s not as detailed as the UK’s UCAS system, it does allow you to submit all of your applications in one place.
• Students applying to universities in the US also usually need to supply essays for each university they apply to. So, if you apply for 10 universities, you'll need to write 10 essays - all specific to each university.
• You will have to submit your academic transcripts as part of your application for admission to university or college. In the US this includes your “grades” and “grade point average” (GPA), which are measurements of your academic achievement.

There are significant differences between the UK and US education system when it comes to curriculum, not only regarding the point of specialization, but also teaching styles and assessment.

• As a UK student, you must decide what you want to study before you apply for university.
• It is not possible to simply apply to study at a university without detailing the specific course that you are applying for.
• All of your classes will be related to your degree subject.
• Another thing that varies between the US and the UK higher education systems is the typical teaching style. Degree studies in the UK tend to be h eavily lecture based , although some smaller group tutorials, or seminars are also included.
• Being largely lecture-based, UK universities put a focus on self-directed study , meaning depending on which subject you study, you may have relatively few ‘contact hours’ with your tutors, when you are attending lectures or seminars.
• UK university study may include the occasional assessment, but it’s not uncommon for students at UK universities to have no formal assessment until an end of term, or even end of the year exam.
• Degrees are awarded as first-class honours (equivalent to GPA 4.0), upper second-class honours (equivalent to GPA 3.3-3.7), lower second-class honours (equivalent to GPA 2.7-3.0), and third-class honours (equivalent to GPA 2.0-2.3).
• in the USA, you have until the end of your second year of undergraduate study (sophomore year) to declare a major (the subject your degree will be in). Instead, you will study a core curriculum of arts, humanities and science classes, alongside the subjects of your choosing.
• This allows you to explore various disciplines and find which one suits you best before you choose your major. The broad range of subjects you will study at a US university means your degree will generally take longer to complete than in the UK.
• Those who wish to specialize in medicine, dentistry, veterinary or engineering fields must first complete their bachelor’s degree before undertaking a postgraduate degree in their chosen profession.
• The USA system uses plenty of lectures, but these might be incorporated much more with smaller seminars or workshops than in the UK.
• Often, US university students have more assignments to complete and more classes to attend. Those classes will also often include a lot of active discussion between the students and the professor. In fact, a large part of the overall grade at a US university will be based on class participation.
• Universities in the USA in general are much more assessment-based than their UK counterparts and students are likely to have weekly, bi weekly or monthly assessments, which will be combined with a final exam for a final grade.
• Assignments are graded as A to F and at the end of the degree, a grade point average (GPA) is calculated.

Graduates from both US and UK universities are highly sought after, and career outlooks for international students with degrees from either country are good.

While it’s true that neither the UK nor the USA offers any kind of guaranteed job at the end of studies, the rules for any international student hoping to stay in on in the country to work after graduating do differ.

Recent changes mean that international students in the UK are now eligible to remain in the UK and work for up to two years, which allows them to really experience the country outside of formal education.

In the USA international students are eligible to remain in the country for just 60 days after graduation. In that time they will need to either enrol in another college, or in an Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to gain employment on an F-1 visa.

This is not always a particular easy avenue to access, and many students find themselves leaving after 60 days.

Generally, a university degree in the UK takes less time to complete than in the US, which is partly down to the fact that students specialize earlier in the UK.

• In the UK, an undergraduate degree typically takes 3 years . There are some exceptions, for example, degrees which require participants to complete a placement year in industry, or in a foreign country, usually take one year longer.
• UK master’s degrees usually take one year of full-time study to complete.
• Typically, American bachelor’s degrees take four years. In the US, each year of an undergraduate degree has its own name; year 1 is known as ‘Freshman Year’, year 2 is ‘Sophomore Year, year 3 is ‘Junior Year’ and year 4 is ‘Senior Year’.
• In the US, graduate (master’s) programs commonly take 2 years of study (full-time), as opposed to just one in the UK.

Both countries typically offer first-year students on-campus housing, but one key difference is how accommodation is shared between students.

• In the UK, very few universities offer shared rooms. It is much more common to have your own bedroom in a shared flat or residence (commonly known as student halls) instead.
• Whilst they have their own bedroom, students generally have shared living and kitchen spaces.
• Alternatively, some universities and student accommodation providers in the UK offer studio apartments where you can live by yourself if you can cover the cost.
• Once students begin their second year at university in the UK, it’s common for them to move to off-campus accommodation; often into a shared house with other students in an area close to the university.

• It’s very common for students in the US to live on campus in student dorms, and also for them to share a bedroom with at least one other student during their first year. Some dorm rooms can even take up to 3 students per room. Students have shared living and kitchen spaces with their fellow residents.
• Often part of the application process also includes a short questionnaire on habits, preferred bedtime etc.to try and match students with similar lifestyles.
• In many cases, once you start your sophomore year, there are more housing options available to you — although some schools may not allow students to live off campus until they enter their junior (third) year.
• Many students move into their own apartments, which can offer more freedom and allow them to live more independently in readiness for when they graduate.

Students in both the UK and the USA will have plenty of opportunity to get involved in university sports club and societies, and also to do volunteering and part-time work. It's a great way to meet new people, enjoy student life and ensure you strike a healthy study/life balance.

The three main types of clubs and societies at UK universities are:

• social clubs organised around a shared interest
• sports teams
• subject-based groups

Whether you aim to continue with a hobby you've been enjoying for years or try something completely new, you're almost certain to find suitable extracurricular activities.

The student's union website is a good place to look for information, as are faculty notice boards. Arguably the best place to scope out potential clubs and opportunities though is at the fresher's fair, a huge exhibition held for new students at the start of the academic year, where most clubs and societies are represented with the aim of signing up new recruits!

There are two big differences between clubs and societies in the UK and the USA — the first relates to something known as ‘Greek life’ and the second to sporting activities .

Greek life refers to a special kind of student society, called a fraternity for male students, and a sorority for female students. These often take their names from the Greek alphabet, hence the term ‘Greek life’.

• Fraternities and sororities are unique to US universities and if you’d like to join one, you must ‘pledge’ them during the first weeks of the semester, usually by completing a series of challenges set for prospective members.
• Not everyone who pledges a sorority or fraternity will be accepted, but those who are will often have the opportunity to live in a shared house with their ‘brothers’ or ‘sisters’. This gives students a great opportunity to build a social and professional network.

• University sports are a huge part of university life in the USA; far bigger than in the UK. University sports teams fill stadiums with fans and inter-university games are shown on TV. Talented athletes can become local celebrities and even get big discounts on their tuition fees!
• All of this might make the USA a very attractive destination for students with a big interest in sports, or who want the opportunity to play in high-profile games.
• Professional teams often pick new players from university leagues, so attending a US university could be a great option if you’re interested in pursuing a sporting career after you graduate.

The cost of education at UK and US universities differ substantially. While all universities set slightly different fees, generally speaking the cost of a university education in the US is higher than in the UK.

• Tuition fees for home students in the UK are capped at £9,000 per year. While there are no such restrictions on how much international students can pay, the average is between £10,000 and £20,000 a year.
• Students who have UK citizenship are able to apply for a loan to cover their degree and living costs. However, most international students will be unable to apply for this kind of funding. Instead, international students can work part-time to fund their studies, if their visa conditions allow it.
• Students can also apply for scholarships for help with their finances.
• In the USA, costs vary widely between universities, but international students can expect to pay up to $45,000 a year to study a bachelor’s degree at a public university, and up to $55,000 a year or more at some private institutions.
• There is no government funding for tuition fees or living costs, however often there is some type of financial aid available.
• Students often have part-time jobs to help fund their education.

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about education in the UK vs USA.

Q1. Is education better in the UK or US?

Both countries are renowned for the high quality of their education. Which country would suit you better as a study destination depends on a host of factors, from financial and time-related considerations to cultural preferences.

Q2. Is education harder in the UK or US?

It is difficult to say which country has a harder level of education. Which you consider harder will probably depend on your style of learning, and what field you hope to focus your studies on.

Q3. Is the UK a good country for education?

Yes. British higher education providers are recognised internationally for their creative and challenging environments, which help students achieve their best. Their standards are highly regarded they generally feature extensively within internationally university rankings.

The British higher education system has been the basis for higher education standards around the world for a long time, with revolutionary teaching styles and modern facilities.

Q4. Is the US a good country for education?

Yes. The US is recognized for the high quality of its education, in particular at university level. Approximately half of the world’s top 50 universities are located in America, an accolade which can be attributed to factors such as accomplished faculty, and advanced technology and research capabilities.

We hope that this article has helped you understand more about the differences between the education systems in US and UK.

If you would like to receive more detailed information about Kings and our university pathway and preparation programs in both countries, please get in touch with us at [email protected] .

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• Introduction

Systems of higher education in France and Germany

The system of higher education in great britain.

• The system of higher education in the United States
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higher education , any of various types of education given in postsecondary institutions of learning and usually affording, at the end of a course of study, a named degree , diploma, or certificate of higher studies . Higher-educational institutions include not only universities and colleges but also various professional schools that provide preparation in such fields as law , theology , medicine , business, music , and art . Higher education also includes teacher-training schools, junior colleges, and institutes of technology. The basic entrance requirement for most higher-educational institutions is the completion of secondary education , and the usual entrance age is about 18 years. ( See also college ; university .)

(Read Arne Duncan’s Britannica essay on “Education: The Great Equalizer.”)

The system of higher education had its origin in Europe in the Middle Ages, when the first universities were established. In modern times the nature of higher education around the world has been largely determined by the models established in influential countries such as France, Germany, Great Britain, and the United States .

Both France and Germany have systems of higher education that are basically administered by state agencies. Entrance requirements for students are also similar in both countries. In France an examination called the baccalauréat is given at the end of secondary education. Higher education in France is free and open to all students who have passed this examination. A passing mark admits students to a preparatory first year at a university, which terminates in another, more rigorous examination. Success in this examination allows students to attend universities for another three or four years until they have attained the first university degree, called a licence in France.

Basic differences, however, distinguish these two countries’ systems. French educational districts, called académies, are under the direction of a rector, an appointee of the national government who also is in charge of the university in each district. The uniformity in curriculum throughout the country leaves each university with little to distinguish itself. Hence, many students prefer to go to Paris, where there are better accommodations and more cultural amenities for students. Another difference is the existence in France of higher-educational institutions known as grandes écoles , which provide advanced professional and technical training. Most of these schools are not affiliated with the universities, although they too recruit their students by giving competitive examinations to candidates who possess a baccalauréat. The various grandes écoles provide a rigorous training in all branches of applied science and technology, and their diplomas have a somewhat higher standing than that of the ordinary licence .

In Germany, a country made up of what were once strong principalities, the regional universities have autonomy in determining their curriculum under the direction of rectors elected from within. Students in Germany change universities according to their interests and the strengths of each university. In fact, it is a custom for students to attend two, three, or even four different universities in the course of their undergraduate studies, and the majority of professors at a particular university may have taught in four or five others. This marked degree of mobility means that schemes of study and examination are marked by a freedom and individuality unknown in France.

Each of these countries has influenced higher education in other nations. The French, either through colonial influence or through the work of missionaries, introduced many aspects of their system in North and West Africa, the Caribbean, and the Far East. In the 1870s Japan’s growing university system was remodeled along French lines. France’s grandes écoles have been especially copied as models of technical schools. German influence has come about through philosophical concepts regarding the role of universities. The Germans were the first to stress the importance of universities as research facilities, and they also created a sense of them as emblems of a national mind. The doctoral degree, or Ph.D., invented in Germany, has gained popularity in systems around the world.

The autonomy of higher-educational institutions is strikingly pronounced in Great Britain. Its universities enjoy almost complete autonomy from national or local government in their administration and the determination of their curricula, despite the fact that the schools receive nearly all of their funding from the state. Entry requirements for British universities are rather complicated. A student must secure a General Certificate of Education (corresponding to the French baccalauréat ) by taking examinations in various subjects and receiving passing marks in them. The greater the number of “advanced level” passes, rather than General Certificate of Secondary Education (formerly “ordinary level”) passes, that a student acquires , the better his chances are of entering the university of his choice. (Britain has a centralized admissions bureau to which candidates for admission are able to give their choice of universities in an order of preference.) This selective admission to universities, combined with the close supervision of students through a tutorial system, makes it possible for most British undergraduates to complete a degree course in three years rather than the standard four years. Great Britain’s academic programs are more highly specialized than their European continental counterparts. Most undergraduates follow an “honours” course (leading to an honours degree) in one or, at the most, two subjects, while the remaining minority of students take “pass” courses that cover a variety of subjects. Great Britain’s model of higher education has been copied to varying degrees in Canada , Australia , India, South Africa , New Zealand , and other former British colonial territories in Africa, Southeast Asia , and the Pacific.

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Higher education in the UK - Statistics & Facts

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Detailed statistics

Number of students enrolled in the United Kingdom 2009-2022

Share of population aged 30-34 that are university graduates in Europe 2023

Share of population aged 15-64 that are university graduates in Europe 2023

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Universities with the highest number of students in the UK 2021/22

Educational Institutions & Market

Percentage of undergraduate degrees awarded each grade in the UK 2011-2022

Education Level & Skills

Number of higher education institutions in the UK 2016-2022

Further recommended statistics

• Premium Statistic Number of students enrolled in the United Kingdom 2009-2022
• Premium Statistic University applicants in the United Kingdom 1994-2022
• Basic Statistic Percentage of undergraduate degrees awarded each grade in the UK 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of university enrolments in the UK 2021/22, by subject
• Premium Statistic Leading EU countries studying in the UK 2021/22
• Premium Statistic Leading non-EU countries studying in the UK 2021/22
• Basic Statistic Average annual salary of graduates and non-graduates in England 2007-2022

Number of students enrolled in higher education in the United Kingdom from 2009/10 to 2021/22 (in millions)

University applicants in the United Kingdom 1994-2022

Number of university applicants in the United Kingdom from 1994 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Percentage of first degree qualifiers obtaining each classification in the United Kingdom from 2011/12 to 2021/22

Number of university enrolments in the UK 2021/22, by subject

Number of university enrolments in the United Kingdom in 2021/22, by subject group

Leading EU countries studying in the UK 2021/22

Leading European Union countries of origin for higher education students studying in the United Kingdom in 2021/22

Leading non-EU countries studying in the UK 2021/22

Leading non-European Union countries of origin for higher education students studying in the United Kingdom in 2021/22

Average annual salary of graduates and non-graduates in England 2007-2022

Average annual salary of graduates and non-graduates in England from 2007 to 2022 (in 1,000 GBP)

Universities

• Basic Statistic Leading U.K. universities ranked by the Complete University Guide 2024
• Basic Statistic Number of higher education institutions in the UK 2016-2022
• Premium Statistic Universities with the highest number of students in the UK 2021/22
• Premium Statistic Annual expenditure of universities in the UK 1993-2022

Leading U.K. universities ranked by the Complete University Guide 2024

The Complete University Guide's top twenty universities in the United Kingdom in 2024, by overall score (max = 1000)

Number of higher education institutions in the United Kingdom from 2016/17 to 2021/22

Universities with the highest number of students in the United Kingdom in 2021/22

Annual expenditure of universities in the UK 1993-2022

Annual expenditure of higher education institutions in the United Kingdom from 1993/94 to 2021/22 (in billion GBP)

Student Finance

• Basic Statistic Government spending on higher education in the UK 2009-2023
• Basic Statistic Average student loan debt in the UK 2000-2023
• Basic Statistic Outstanding debt of student loans in the UK 2013-2023
• Premium Statistic Tuition fees as a share of higher education income in the UK 2008-2022

Government spending on higher education in the UK 2009-2023

Public sector expenditure on tertiary education in the United Kingdom from 2009/10 to 2022/23 (in billion GBP)

Average student loan debt in the UK 2000-2023

Average student loan debt on entry to repayment in the United Kingdom from 1999/00 to 2022/23, by country (in 1,000 GBP)

Outstanding debt of student loans in the UK 2013-2023

Outstanding debt of student loans in the United Kingdom from 2013/14 to 2022/23, by country (in billion GBP)

Tuition fees as a share of higher education income in the UK 2008-2022

Income from tuition fees as a share of all Higher Education Institution income in the United Kingdom from 2008/09 to 2021/22

International Comparisons

• Premium Statistic International student share of higher-ed population worldwide in 2022, by country
• Basic Statistic Higher education spending per student worldwide by country 2020
• Basic Statistic Degrees earned in higher education U.S. 1950-2032
• Basic Statistic Share of population aged 15-64 that are university graduates in Europe 2023
• Basic Statistic Share of population aged 30-34 that are university graduates in Europe 2023
• Basic Statistic Share of population that are university graduates in the EU 2002-2023, by age
• Premium Statistic Number of degree graduates in the EU 2021, by field of study

International student share of higher-ed population worldwide in 2022, by country

Countries with the largest amount of international students as a share of the total higher education population in 2022

Higher education spending per student worldwide by country 2020

Expenditure on higher education per student in OECD countries worldwide in 2020 (in U.S. dollars)

Degrees earned in higher education U.S. 1950-2032

Number of higher education degrees earned in the United States from 1950 to 2032 (in 1,000s)

Share of those aged between 15 and 64 with tertiary educational attainment in Europe in 2023, by country

Share of those aged between 30 and 34 with tertiary educational attainment in Europe in 2023, by country

Share of population that are university graduates in the EU 2002-2023, by age

Share of those with tertiary educational attainment in the European Union from 2002 to 2023, by age group

Number of degree graduates in the EU 2021, by field of study

Number of tertiary education graduates in the European Union in 2021, by broad field of study

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UK Education System Guide

The UK education system is reputed worldwide for its high quality and standards. Britons enter the education system at the age of three, and up to 16 are obliged to attend school (compulsory education), while afterward is upon their choice.

Generally, the British higher education system has five stages of education: 

• Early Years
• Primary Years
• Secondary Education
• Further Education (FE)
• Higher Education (HE) 

Besides sharing many similarities, the UK education system at different levels at each zone of administration (England, Scotland, and Wales) differs a bit. Generally speaking, these differences could be more meaningful if we discuss UK higher education as one.

In the UK, everybody over five and under 16 is obliged to attend school. This aging time frame contains two sections of the education system in the UK: Primary and Secondary Schools.

The Compulsory Education in the UK 

Compulsory education in the UK is divided into four key stages, distinguished by a student’s age. The first stage includes 5 to 7-year-olds, and the fourth and final stage lasts from the age of 14 to age 16. 

Here are the four stages of mandatory education in the UK and the curricula for each key stage:

First Key Stage 

The first key stage in compulsory education in England includes children from 5 to 7 years old, otherwise known as a primary school, comprising the first two years. 

Here are some of the main subjects that this stage of mandatory education includes:

• English Language 
• Mathematics
• Physical Education

During the first year of this stage, the curriculum structure contains the Phonic screening, a short assessment of kids’ ability to decode and understand phonics properly. Typically, the teacher will ask the students to repeat a list of around 40 words out loud. At the end of this stage (the same in all stages), these pupils will sit for an examination to measure their English, Maths, and Science knowledge development.

Second Key Stage

Between 7 to 11 years, pupils will be in the second key stage of compulsory education. The second key stage includes years 3 to 6. At this level, the curriculum is designed to give students a more advanced understanding of the previously gained knowledge on the core subjects. 

At the end of this stage, the school will test students in the following subjects:

• English reading.
• English grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Mathematics.

In English and Mathematics, the testing will be done through national assessment tests, while the teacher will independently assess the level of improvement of each student in Science.

Third Key Stage

Pupils aged 11 to 14 belong to the third stage of compulsory education, or years 7 to 9. This education level is essential to a certain degree because only a few years later, they will sit for the GCSE national qualification. 

The curriculum during this stage of education will also contain new subjects at which students are supposed to get some basic knowledge before moving any further in the upcoming stages of education.

The subjects learned in Key Stage 3 are:

• Art and Design
• Physical Education 
• Modern Foreign Languages 
• Design and Technology and Computing

At the end of the third Key Stage, some students may take their GCSE or other national qualifications. 

Fourth Key Stage

The final stage of compulsory education, key stage 4, lasts from 14 to 16 and includes years 10 to 12. The fourth key stage is the most common period for students to undertake the national assessment tests that will lead them to take a GCSE or other national qualifications.

The compulsory national curriculum at this stage contains the “core” and “foundation” subjects.

Here are the “core” subjects taught at the fourth key stage:

And here are the “foundation” subjects taught at the key stage 4:

• Citizenship

Additionally, schools in the UK are obliged to offer one of the following subjects during this stage of education.

• Design and Technology
• Modern Foreign Languages

The Higher Education System in the United Kingdom 

In particular, UK higher education is valued worldwide for its renowned standards and quality. Its higher education’s prestige also emanates from its graduates’ work afterward. Many eminent people in many different areas whose work reached global recognition came from British universities. 

Some universities and other higher education providers are ranked top among universities worldwide. The UK capital city, London, not by accident, is considered to be the world’s capital city of higher education. With its four universities ranked in the world’s top ten, London has the highest number of worldwide-ranked universities per city.

By definition, UK higher education is the level of education that follows secondary school at the hierarchy of the educational system in the UK. When high school is over, Britons have to sit in a standard examination, making them eligible not to continue their education at a higher level.

What is the Difference Between Colleges and Universities?

In the UK education system, in contrast to the US higher education, there is a difference between college and university. While in the US, there is no distinction between college and university, with most people referring to a higher education provider as a college, in the UK, this is not the case. 

In the UK, a college is a further education institution that prepares students to earn a degree. At the same time, a university is a licensed HE institution that awards students with a degree at the end of their studies. 

Studying in the UK as an International Student 

If you’re an international student , you must know that not all higher education providers in the UK are referred to as a university. This issue is regulated by law. 

As this official regulation states, a higher education institution can be labeled as a university under these circumstances:

• If it gets approved by the Privy Council under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992.
• If it gets approval under the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

International students from countries other than the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland must apply for a student visa to study in the UK.

The UK Higher Education Degree Levels and Programs

Based on the actual education regulations in the UK education system, Higher Education comprises the following levels of courses. 

1. Undergraduate Courses

Undergraduate courses in the UK include a wide range of first degrees which are listed below.

• Bachelor’s Degree 
• Honors and Ordinary Degrees 
• Qualified Teacher Status 
• Enhanced First Degrees 
• Intercalated Degrees (medical schools or other specific study fields allow students to take a year off between the second and third years to study a different area which can be a BA, BSc, or master’s degree program).

Here are other undergraduate courses: 

• Foundation degrees 
• Higher National Diploma HND (or equivalent) 
• NHC (or equivalent), etc.

An undergraduate course usually takes three years; however, Scotland is an exception, where undergraduate courses take four years to complete. The higher education system in the UK has many universities that offer 4-year undergraduate courses, also known as “ sandwich courses .” This program includes a one-year work experience —usually carried out in the third year.

Keep in mind: Some British universities offer fast-track programs where you can obtain a Master’s degree at the undergraduate level. Unlike traditional undergraduate courses, fast-track programs allow students to attend an additional year of studying instead of taking a Bachelor’s degree which leads to a Master’s program. 

Besides, it costs much less than the typical 3-year undergraduate courses; however, it usually is much more intense with shortened holiday breaks and a heavy schedule.

2. Postgraduate Courses 

The postgraduate degree programs are only obtainable if you have a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university (not necessarily one in England).

The postgraduate level includes the following degrees:

• Master’s Degree (Taught or Research). Master’s degrees usually last one year or longer if they are research-based.
• Doctorate. The typical doctoral degree takes three years to complete. 
• Postgraduate Diplomas.
• Postgraduate Certificates of Education (PGCE).
• Professional Degrees.

Note: To enter this level, it is usually required to have a first degree (Bachelor’s).

The Higher Education Curriculum and Admission Process 

In the UK’s education system, most syllabi are set by the universities offering them and are not controlled by the government or certain British educational institutions. The only exception to this is teacher education programs, which the government has a lot of say over. 

The British government has established the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted) to maintain those standards. Most countries have specific regulations for their teachers, so this isn’t any different than studying teaching in your home country. Because of its strict rules and high standards for teacher education programs, the UK is considered to have some of the best teacher education programs in the world.

Even though universities set the syllabi, the Office for Fair Access (OFFA) in the British school system has a lot of say in the admission procedures of each university. This office was created so everyone who wishes to attend university in the UK can do so. They also promote fair access to higher education, even for those attending university as international students. Appropriate access also includes those of different cultures, different races, different nationalities, and those who have disabilities.

UK Tuition Fees and Costs

The reputation of British higher education goes hand in hand with its costs. Tuition fees may vary from university to university, as well as from one location to another.

So it’s always advisable to check the university’s website before making further study plans. Indeed, to attend a British university, you need a lot of money packed in —whether you’re a native or not— but since there are many scholarship schemes , you can always apply for one.

The tuition fees of UK universities also vary depending on the degree level and study program. The average tuition fees for international students range from ~£17,109 (USD 20,876) to  ~£22,200 (USD 27,000). 

• Undergraduate tuition fees: International students pay around £11,400 – £38,000 (USD 13,900 – USD 46,355).
• Postgraduate tuition fees: International students pay around £9,000 – £30,000 (USD 10,980 – USD 36,570)

International students are a substantial part of the student population in British universities. The UK is the second most popular study destination for international students, following the US at the top. If you decide to be one of more than a million international students in the US, you’re one step away from a guaranteed brighter future.

Academics and employers value the UK education system and its higher education degrees worldwide. The UK has a rich history of quality higher education, and each university has excellent options for any student.

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Education System in England and Wales Today Essay

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Introduction

The education system in england and wales, effects of the british education division.

The education history of England and Wales involves a situation where the learning services were provided by churches, and only church schools existed. The principals and the teachers were supposed to be holy people, and the state met a high resistance in trying to providing education.

However, various constitutional and societal changes led to the role of providing education being adopted by the state and the establishment of public schools. Later a well-structured education system was established through the 1988 education reform act that introduced the national curriculum and its consequent examinations, financing of schools, among other reforms to improve the quality of education.

The education system in England is mainly under the supervision of the department of kids, family units, and schools in conjunction with the departments of innovation, training, and higher education. It’s the duty of the local authorities to execute policies on community education and national schools locally.

There are also been a number of independent schools that operate in the country since the establishment of the education system. The framework of Wales is almost similar to that of England except that England emphasizes studying few subjects with in-depth analysis. On the other hand, Wales emphasizes an education system where students study many subjects with a shallow understanding of the main concepts.

The England education framework comprises compulsory education for all the kids between 5 to 16 years old; the education is provided by the public, private, and home schools. The compulsory education usually closes on the very last Friday of June when the academic time ends, and the students become 16 years old. Compulsory schooling consists of primary and secondary education. The primary learning is usually offered in baby class and junior or a combination of the two and consists of four main stages, i.e., foundation, full-time foundation, key stage 1, and key stage 2.

On the other hand, secondary schooling consists of two chief stages, i.e., key stage 3 and key stage 4. The examination system is made of four main “key stage national curriculum” assessments where students get tested at various levels in the learning process. These tests include key stage 1 taken the second year after joining the school, key stage 2 undertaken at the last part of the sixth year. In addition, the key stage 3 is undertaken by students at the last part of the ninth year, while the key stage 4 is administered through the tenth and the eleventh, which is integrated as the GCSE is a compulsory exam for all students.

Then the students can join a further college schooling which is the sixth form of learning mandatory in some schools where they attain an Advanced Level GCE. The A-Level is made of six units in each subject where in the first year the students undertake three subjects, and after passing, they can choose to continue with the other three subjects to attain the A-Level.

At the age of 18, students can join universities or institutions of higher education to attain bachelor’s degrees. Undergraduate learning is principally sponsored by the government except in private universities where students are self-sponsored. After attaining the bachelor’s degree, the willing students can continue to pursue the postgraduates degrees, which include the master’s and the doctorate degrees completed in one and three years, respectively. Most of the students are self-sponsored as the government only assists the financially needy students, and in very rare cases hence the admission to these degrees is a bit competitive.

In addition, the government offers adult schooling at all levels of education for the purposes of equipping the students with the general knowledge and skills of life and performing duties, e.g., access program. In terms of the cost charged at each educational level, the primary and the secondary education is free, while the sixth form, undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate degrees are charged differently as per their requirements and the institutions the student attends.

The British education system has subdivided into the state and the independent sectors of learning, where the learning services are provided by both the government and the private sectors of the economy. The divisions have both positive and negative effects; the positive effects include the education system becomes more competitive as both sides are committed to achieve better results and become the winners.

The state and the private schools fight to attain top positions in the main national examinations in order to get more students and get favors from the state; hence the competition created has improved the quality of education offered in both sectors. In addition, the competition has also spread even in extracurricular activities such as sports, and many students can identify their talents when still young.

The existence of only state schools had been accused of poor management and being strict in providing only the national curriculum. The existence of the independent sectors in Britain has seen other curriculums practiced in other countries being offered in the country; hence many students do not travel outside the UK to access these other curriculums. In addition, the private sector has started a forum where they offer the Britain curriculum to other countries by establishing branches or examination bodies that only provide the UK curriculum exams. This has reduced the cost of accessing other international curriculums as they are offered in other countries. However, the existence of two sectors has contributed to state schools finding their own sources of income and managing their resources to maintain the standards of education.

The negative effects include the creation of double standards in education where the rich students join the independent schools as their facilities outstand that of the state schools; hence they charge large amounts of fees only affordable by the rich. In addition, they are less strict in terms of discipline and performance as they are losing students considering the amount they pay for school maintenance. More so, the independent schools offer a wide range of curriculums, therefore, making these students better in terms of international competitiveness and access to opportunities.

On the other hand, the state schools remain for the middle and the lower classes of the working class who cannot afford private sector education. This creates a division in a society where there are schools for the poor and the rich hence the association of the two groups is difficult. More so, they offer a standard form of curriculum applicable to all state-owned schools hence limiting the students to only the locally created opportunities.

The disparity in terms of the resources and facilities available to the students makes the students in independent schools access many opportunities compared to those in state schools. For instance, private schools only admit the students and the staff that meet their standards. In addition, they charge a large number of fees in order to make all facilities available to both the students and the staff, making sure the needs of all students are met. They also spend most of their time, resources, and energy towards other extracurricular activities making the students their talents as they have all the necessary facilities at their disposal.

On the other hand, the state schools lack enough to provide all the necessary facilities in schools due to the fact that they cannot charge high fees in the name of luxury. Therefore, the state takes the responsibility of providing basic education; hence the students never access many opportunities. For instance, only a few identify their talents in extracurricular activities as not all the facilities are available. More so, the state schools admit all kinds of students without considering their personal information or background hence less discriminative and more just a factor that tends to push their performance down.

The state schools in providing higher education seem to maintain their high standards where students with low grades are only allowed to take degrees that are fewer adverse effects on human beings and society. For instance, the medicine and the engineering students are supposed to be students with very high grades due to the nature and complexity of the job responsibilities and the risks involved. Therefore they are supposed to be bright students who are good performers.

On the other hand, the independent schools are never strict on course offering in terms of the students’ performance or grades rather they are interested in the fees paid by the students, i.e., who can afford their services hence we end up having students dropping out of class when they are halfway or who fail in their careers due to lack of the relevant knowledge and skills. Hence, the independent schools are commercial as they are not state-sponsored like state schools.

David McDowall. Britain in close up, United Kingdom: Longman publisher, 2000.

Dent H.C. education in England and Wales, London: Hodder and Arnold H&S publisher, 1982.

John Oakland. British Civilization, Great Britain: Rout ledge publisher, 1998.

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British Literature Wiki

Essay on Education in the UK

The UK is a highly developed country, in general, that’s why the educational system in the UK is well developed and highly ranked. It’s important to note that the country consists of four parts Wales, Scotland, England, and Northern Ireland. That fact causes some peculiarities of education in each part.

As in many other countries education in Great Britain involves nursery, primary, and secondary schools for school education; higher education institutions such as colleges and universities for higher education and also some establishments for further or adult education.

School education in the UK is compulsory and free from the age of five. Primary school is common for all students. But at the age of 11 children take exams and have the opportunity to choose the type of secondary school: grammar school with a more academic type of education; a secondary modern school which gives more general knowledge: or secondary technical school with a more practical type of education. Children are able to finish school at the age of 16 with the General Certificate of Education. There are also some alternatives to state schools such as public schools which usually have a high fee for education or becoming more and more popular home education.

On the other hand, higher education in the UK is not compulsory or free. Moreover, the cost of education in many universities is quite high. Nevertheless, it’s high standard with very strong college system and even stronger university system. Some of the UK universities are world–famous and international establishments. The most well–known are Oxford and Cambridge universities which are also the oldest ones. The duration of education for getting a Bachelor’s degree is three years and then students can continue studying to get Master’s or Doctor’s degree.

As far as I can see, the education in the UK is fundamental and high standard. There are many options for children so they are able to choose whatever they want.

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