UK vs USA: Which Country is better for Indian Students?

UK vs USA: The two top study destinations USA and the UK get a large inflow of students every year owing to their quality education, reputed faculty, top universities, etc. Employment chances after graduating are also high. Both countries offer world-renowned educational experiences, but they are distinct in their academic offerings and cultural environment. Choosing between studying in the United States or the United Kingdom can be a tough decision for students. This article will explore key aspects from top universities to living costs, providing you with a clearer comparison UK vs USA to make an informed choice. Explore this guide for insights into shaping your ideal study abroad adventure.

Dive in to discover which destination aligns best with your academic aspirations!

• Major factors to be considered when choosing to study in USA or UK
• UK vs USA: Education System
• UK vs USA: Top Universities
• Popular Courses in UK and USA
• UK vs USA: Admission Requirements & Eligibility
• UK vs USA: Cost of Study and Living Expenses
• UK vs USA: Visa Process
• UK vs USA: Work while Studying
• UK vs USA: Job opportunities
• Post-Study Requirements in UK and USA
• UK vs USA: Permanent residency options
• UK vs USA: Scholarships Availability
• USA vs UK: Cultural and Lifestyle Differences
• USA vs UK: Climatic conditions
• So, Which is Better study abroad destination– the USAor the UK?
• FAQ

Major Factors to be Considered When Choosing to study in USA or UK

UK vs USA: Education System

The education systems in the US and UK differ in terms of emphasis on practical and theoretical learning. While the US follows a semester system, the UK often operates on a three-term system. This section will delve into these distinctions and their impact on the study abroad experience for international students.

Differences between US and UK Education Systems

US and UK education systems have some key differences. US universities often focus on a broad range of subjects in the first part of a degree. Students explore various fields before picking a major. In contrast, UK students choose their course of study from the start and focus deeply on it. Another big difference is in time frames for degrees. In the US, undergraduate programmes usually take four years to complete. Across the board, UK bachelor's degrees typically last three years. This means UK students dive into their chosen field right away - there's less general education at the start.

Grading systems also vary between these two countries. American schools use A-F grades and GPAs to score student work. British institutions grade with honours – First Class, Second Class (Upper Division), Second Class (Lower Division), Third Class, Pass, or Fail are common terms you'll hear. American universities operate mostly on a semester system with two main academic periods per year. UK universities typically operate on a three-term system, not a trimester system. The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer, with breaks in between each term. In summary, if you're considering where to study abroad, think about what style suits you best – wide-ranging exploration or immediate specialisation? Consider how long you want to be studying and what grading system makes sense for your goals.

Popular Courses in UK and USA

UK

While the UK is indeed known for its emphasis on medical studies, engineering, and project management, its universities also offer a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including natural sciences, humanities, Law, Nursing, Sports and Exercise Science, Psychology, Art and Design, Dentistry, Business and Management studies.

USA

Similarly, US universities offer many programs, with popular courses including STEM fields, business management, liberal arts programs, Sports Management, Physiotherapy, Hospitality, Law, Fashion Design, Medical Science, Accounting, and  Economics.

UK vs USA: Top Universities

Each country boasts prestigious institutions that attract students from all over the world.

UK

Top UK University	QS World University Rankings 2024
University of Oxford	4
University of Cambridge	2
Imperial College London	6
University College London (UCL)	8
The University of Edinburgh	21
The University of Manchester	27

USA

Top USA University	QS World University Rankings 2024
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1
Stanford University	3
Harvard University	5
California Institute of Technology	7
University of Chicago	11
University of Pennsylvania	13

UK vs USA: Admission Requirements & Eligibility

Admission requirements and eligibility for US and UK universities can vary, from standardised test scores to letters of recommendation. Understanding the differences in application processes is crucial for international students considering studying abroad. Here are the typical admission requirements for both countries:

UK

• You should complete 10+2 from an authorized school/college and board. 
• For postgraduate courses, a First Class Honours Bachelor's Degree or equivalent is needed. The required minimum marks for admission differ depending on the university and program choice.
• To get admission to management or science-related courses some UK universities ask for GMAT or GRE scores. And top UK universities might conduct personal interviews to select deserving candidates.
• Students who wish to pursue management courses need to show relevant industry-related work experience.
• UK universities also accept scores of English language proficiency tests IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. An overall IELTS score of 6.5 with 6 in each section is needed to get admission to top universities.

USA

• You must clear 10+2 from an authorized school or college from respective board. Keep the original copies of all the educational documents.
• Scores of competitive exams like the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and TOEFL are required. For some subject-specific courses, you need to appear for MCAT, DAT, PCAT, and VCAT.
• Along with the above, you need to submit a statement of purpose (SOP) and letter of recommendation (LOR) to apply for admission to US universities.
• Similar to the UK, you need to show a few years of work experience for admission to management courses.

UK vs USA: Cost of Study and Living Expenses

The cost of studying and living in the US and UK varies significantly, with tuition fees, accommodation, and daily expenses being key factors to consider while deciding between the two countries. Here is a breakdown of costs for US and UK universities.

Costs for Undergraduate Study in USA vs UK

Particulars	Undergraduate Course in the USA	Undergraduate Course in the UK
Tuition	$10,000 to $30,000 per year	£8,000-£15,000 per year
Room and living Expenses	$10,000 to $15,000 per year	£12,000-£15,000 per year
Course Duration	4 years	3 years
Total	$20,000-$45,000 per year	£20,000-£30,000

Cost for Postgraduate study in USA vs UK

Particulars	Postgraduate Course in the USA	Postgraduate Course in the UK
Tuition	$10,000 to $30,000 per year	£8,000-£15,000 per year
Room and living Expenses	$10,000 to $15,000 per year	£12,000-£15,000 per year
Course Duration	4 years	3 years
Total	$20,000-$45,000 per year	£20,000-£30,000

This detailed cost comparison highlights the significant financial investment required for studying in both countries, with the US often being the more expensive option. However, the overall expenses will vary depending on personal choices, lifestyle, and the specific location within each country. It's advisable for students to research thoroughly and consider all factors when budgeting for their study abroad experience.

Also Read:

• Cost of living in UK
• Cost of living in USA
• Cost of Studying in UK
• Cost of Studying in USA

UK vs USA: Visa Process

UK Student visa

Tier 4 (General) student visa is a full-time student visa and it costs around £350 (INR 36,660). The same visa fee for dependents as well but additionally an international surcharge of £705 (INR 73,850) needs to be paid. Getting a british visa is more difficult due to strict visa rules applied over the last few years. The documents required for UK student visa are:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for studies (CAS)
• A valid passport
• Passport-size photos
• Assessment documentation
• ATAS clearance report (Academic technology approval scheme)
• Relevant documents if you have taken student loan

Consulate may or may not call you for the personal interview.

USA Student visa

There are three types of student visas in the USA which are given below

F1 student visa	For study programs like MBA, MS that require 18 hours of study weekly
J1 Exchange Visitor visa	For students and lecturers pursuing exchange programs
M1 visa	To study at technical and vocational schools. M1 and F1 student visa process is similar.

The documents required for the USA student visa are:

• DS-160 printed application form copy
• A valid passport
• SEVIS fee receipt and visa fee payment confirmation receipt.
• Interview appointment letter original copy
• Form I-20 received from the university/college you have enrolled
• Proof of funds
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency tests.

UK vs USA: Work while Studying

UK

With a UK student visa (Tier 4) students are allowed to work 20 hours per week part-time. They are eligible to work on-campus or under a university affiliated employer. International students can also work off campus based on the terms and conditions of their chosen university and program.

USA

Here, international students are allowed to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week full-time and 40 hours per week during holidays. Working off-campus is tough as most US universities won’t allow students to do so for safety reasons. If your student visa is F1, M1, or J1, you are not allowed to work after the completion of your study program.

Post-Study Requirements in UK and USA

UK

In the UK, international students who have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree are eligible for a Graduate Route visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for two or three years after graduation to work or look for work.

USA

In the US, international students must have an F-1 visa to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and be enrolled full-time at an institution. The length of OPT can vary, but it generally allows students to work for up to 12 months after graduation, with an additional 24 months for students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Upon completion of their studies, students will have the opportunity to explore job search opportunities in both countries and understand the eligibility criteria for post-study work visas.

Additionally, they can assess the options available for seeking permanent residency after completing their education.

Permanent residency options

UK

In the UK, individuals can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of lawful residence in the country.

• ILR allows individuals to live and work in the UK without any restrictions. After living in the UK for twelve months under ILR, individuals can apply for British citizenship, provided their circumstances haven't significantly changed.
• Commonwealth citizens may also be eligible for ILR, and some may have the right to habitate in the UK, allowing them to live or work without any immigration restrictions.

USA

In the US, individuals can obtain permanent residency, also known as a Green Card, through employment or family sponsorship. For highly-skilled workers or immediate relatives of American citizens, these are the most common paths to achieve permanent resident status.

• Employment-based Green Cards are available for individuals with extraordinary abilities, advanced degree holders, and other specific categories.
• Family-based Green Cards are typically available for immediate relatives of US citizens, including spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 years of age.

Job opportunities in UK and USA

International students studying in the UK or US have access to various job search opportunities, including part-time work, internships, and post-study employment. Many universities in both countries offer career fairs and networking events to connect students with potential employers. Additionally, international student support services guide writing CVs, interview preparation, and navigating work visa regulations.

Some of the top job sectors in the USA are related to Management, advertising, financing, software engineering, dentistry, etc. Whereas in the UK you find good pay for Corporate Managers, Directors, aircraft pilots, nurses, and mechanical engineers, etc.

Details of Annual Salary Package for prime job sectors in USA and UK

Specialization field	Average Annual Salary in USA	Average Annual Salary in UK
Civil Engineer	USD 85,600	£36759
Mechanical Engineer	USD 86,500	£39826
Software Developer	USD 91,900	£52,944
Data Scientist	USD 155,000	£59616
IT Manager	USD 163000	£61,309
Legal Professionals	USD 107,442	£79,590

Also Read:

• Jobs in USA for Indians
• Jobs in UK for Indians

UK vs USA: Scholarships Availability

USA

Many US universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic excellence. Some institutions have specific scholarships for students from certain countries, including India. Research assistantships and teaching assistantships are also available in some fields, providing financial support along with valuable work experience. Here are the details

USA Scholarships	Amount Granted	Eligibility	Duration
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships	Varies	PG students	1 year
Asian Women in Business Scholarship Fund	$2,500 - $10,000	Asian women enrolled full-time in an accredited U.S. program	1 year
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships	Full tuition, stipend	Students admitted to MBA program at stanford university	2 years
Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowships	Varies	PG students	6-9 months
S.N. Bose Scholars Student Exchange Program	Fully funded	UG students	10-12 weeks
Tata Scholarships at Cornell	Full tuition, stipend	Indian citizens admitted to undergraduate program at Cornell University	entire duration of study
Yale University Fox International Fellowships	$30,000	Graduate students from countries other than the United States	1 year
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships Program	Full funding for tuition, stipend, and living expenses	Mid-career professionals from designated countries	10 months

UK

UK universities provide a range of scholarships for international students, including those from India, to help with tuition fees and living costs. Some scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, while others consider factors such as financial need or specific course of study. Here are the details of UK Scholarships:

UK Scholarships	Amount Granted	Eligibility	Duration
Sri Ratan Tata Fellowship for South Asian Students at LSE	£7,500	South Asian students admitted to a master's program at LSE	1 year
British Council Great Scholarships for Indian students	Varies	PG students	1 year
Cardiff Business School Scholarships	Varies	PG students	1 year
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship	Varies	PhD students	3 years
Government-funded scholarships (e.g., Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship, Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship)	Varies	Eligibility varies; typically open to international students pursuing higher education in the UK	varies
Oxford and Cambridge Society of India Scholarships	Varies	UG or PG students	1 year

Refer the links below to learn more about:

• Scholarships in USA for Indian students
• Scholarships in UK for Indian students

USA vs UK: Cultural and Lifestyle Differences

The cultural and lifestyle differences between the US and UK can significantly impact a student's study abroad experience, from the climate to social norms. To find out more about how these factors could affect your choice of study destination, keep reading.

Comparison of culture, weather, and lifestyle in US and UK

Comparing the culture, weather, and lifestyle of the US and the UK offers an intriguing perspective for students considering where to study abroad. Both countries boast unique experiences that can significantly influence students' academic and social lives.

Aspect	United States	United Kingdom
Culture	Diverse cultural landscape with a blend of various traditions. Social interactions are generally informal, with an emphasis on individualism.	Rich historical roots with a more formal social structure. There's a strong sense of tradition and community.
Weather	Varies widely due to the country's size. Students can experience everything from harsh winters to hot summers depending on the region.	Different regions of the UK have slightly different climates, but in general, students should prepare for milder temperatures and less extreme weather variations.
Lifestyle	Fast-paced with a 'work hard, play hard' mentality. Campus life is active, with numerous extracurricular opportunities and sports.	More laid-back approach with a strong pub culture. Universities offer a range of societies and there's an appreciation for work-life balance.

In both countries, students will find vibrant environments that could enrich their overseas education, with cultural diversity and lifestyle choices playing a pivotal role in their overall experience.

USA vs UK: Climatic Conditions

USA

The USA has a huge land area with varied temperatures and climatic conditions in different areas. East Coast which covers cities like St.Louis, NYC has a warm climate. Coming to the Midwest and New England regions they have frozen winters and cover cities like Chicago and Boston. The Pacific Northwest which covers cities like Seattle and Portland has a humid oceanic climate. The southwest has a hot desert climate covering Phoenix and Las Vegas cities. Finally, the southeast has a warm to hot, humid climate and covers Houston and New Orleans-like cities.

UK

The country UK has a variable climate which changes from day to day, making it difficult to predict the weather. Generally, summers are warm, and winters experience rainfall. Here summers are cooler compared to India, and also, rains are unpredictable and could rain any time throughout the year. In summers, the average temperature is around  25°C to 15°C and in winters it is around 7°C to 0°C.

So, Which is Better Study destination– the USA or the UK?

Both the United States and the United Kingdom offer world-class education systems that attract talented students from across the globe. The UK  is better because the country is a global leader in research and education. The UK provides shorter, more focused programs, while the USA offers a broader range of universities and programs.  While academic reputation and course offerings are critical factors, also consider the lifestyle, culture, costs, post-study prospects and scholarship opportunities when deciding UK or the USA.
Now let’s get into the most frequently asked questions by many students when deciding UK vs USA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which is better UK or US for Indian students?

The United Kingdom (UK) is often considered a cheaper place to live. The cost of living in both countries is different and can vary based on where people choose to live. It’s also important to note that the average salary of an individual in the US is significantly higher than the amount it would be in the UK due to taxes.

2. How US is different from UK?

The US follows the federal constitutional republic form of government, while the UK has a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system. Also, the US consists of 50 states and one federal district whereas the UK is a single state kingdom with four different countries. Lastly, the US holds a bigger GDP, land area, and domestic product compared to the UK.

3. Is it better to do Masters in UK or USA?

Studying in the UK offers a notable advantage compared to the USA due to shorter program durations. In the UK master’s programs typically last one year, while in the USA it lasts two years on average. Nonetheless, some US universities provide accelerated programs that can be completed in one year.

4. Is UK economy better than USA?

Both countries have their own strengths and weaknesses. Coming to GDP, The overall GDP is higher in the USA than UK, but the UK poses a stronger service sector and a more diverse economy. Also, when compared to the US, the UK has a more extensive social welfare system that provides a safety net for its citizens.

5. Is it better to live in the UK or USA?

The UK typically offers a favorable work-life balance compared to the USA with shorter working hours and more vacation time. And the UK is more ethically diverse while the USA is racially diverse. However, both countries offer plenty of cultural and outdoor activities to enjoy.

6. Is the cost of living in USA higher compared to UK?

Cost of living for both nations vary based on your place of residence. The cost of living in USA is slightly higher (0.49%) compared to UK, according to cost of living comparisons. The estimated cost of living in UK is around £547 a month while in the USA it is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month for students.

7. Is UK Master’s degree valid in the USA?

Yes, a master’s degree gained from a UK university is considered valid in the USA institutions for research positions as well as university appointments. The UK’s master’s degree has a high weightage for research and work.

8. What is the exchange rate from UK to US$?

The conversion of British pound to US dollars is  1 GBP = 1.25 USD.

9. Can I immigrate to the UK from USA?

Yes. You will need a visa to immigrate to the UK from the United States if you plan on living in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland permanently. The type of visa you require depends on the immigration route you are eligible for. There are several routes through which individuals can be allowed moving to England from the USA.