One must act quickly while making a significant decision, like studying abroad. However, it also offers several benefits you will benefit from throughout your life. However, a fundamental question always arises: Why do international students study for the A level to enter universities? There are various causes for these. Many colleges worldwide accept these British credentials since they are simpler for universities to process than exams from other countries. Numerous universities have also approved and respected these certificates. It facilitates the application process for universities abroad and unquestionably raises students’ employability.

What are A-levels?

Students in the UK who are 16 years or older can take the subject-based A-Level exams. The credentials they offer are accepted for university entrance in the UK and many other countries. They are typically studied over two years. Most institutions of higher learning demand a minimum of three subjects.

A Levels are a UK certificate. However, they are taught in schools all around the world. Most colleges and higher education institutions also recognize A Levels as a valid admission qualification.

Leading international institutions from 125 countries, including New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, Egypt, Germany, and Spain, accept A Levels from testing companies like Cambridge International. Having A-Levels can speed up the application process and increase an applicant’s competitiveness.

What are GCSEs?

This word refers to the General Certificate of Secondary Education. Secondary education qualification is necessary to work in the UK. According to the results of the tests, GCSEs are given out separately for each topic. Students study for and take these exams between the age of 14 to 16. The GCSE exams are given in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (but not in Scotland). Preparation for the GCSE usually takes two years. International students, however, are capable of finishing their GCSEs after just one year of study. International GCSEs are available in over a hundred countries and are globally standardized exams. These GCSEs are better suited for students who prepare for exams remotely because there isn’t any coursework that can be evaluated.

So why study international GCSEs?

Schoolchildren must pass the exams to receive the certificate. There are certain subjects chosen, while others are optional.

The necessary subjects are science, math, English, and English literature (chemistry, physics, biology).

Do GCSEs have importance in the education system?

Institutions typically pay considerable attention to the grades students receive in GCSE topics, even though GCSE is only a first step toward higher education. Many universities will require that you have at least five GCSE grades in the range of * to C. (the old marking system). Otherwise, there is a significantly decreased chance of completing a particular course.

You must continue your education beyond your GCSEs at your school or sixth-form college and pass the A-level exams or their equivalents to be accepted into a university. The letter A in A-level GSE refers to the advanced level. A-level results are crucial because universities use them to determine whether or not to extend their offers.

What Makes the UK a Good Place to Study?

Studying abroad or in a specific location involves more than just soaking up the academic concepts taught at universities and institutions. You learn a lot about a place’s culture when you decide which college to attend, and that culture moulds you into who you are today. This is why it is always advisable to look at the UK, which makes a difference.

The United Kingdom has long been a preferred destination for students looking for higher education because of its prestigious universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and many more. You can find a wide range of specializations unavailable elsewhere in the UK. For example, aerospace engineering, marine biology, naval administration, aromatherapy, forensics, and many other fields are available. However, you must be sure that the university you are considering provides the subject you want to take.

Conclusion

There are several good reasons for students to consider studying abroad. For example, international universities may offer greater career chances, the excitement of studying abroad, the opportunity to advance language skills, enrol in more specialized programs, or develop life skills like adaptation and resilience by living overseas. 21K School World Campus prepares students early on for university entrance and helps students strategize by selecting the most appropriate courses, recommending extracurricular activities, and finding answers to questions like how to apply to UK universities, how to pick the right college, and more.

Meta: Essays are an important part of the admission process. Here are some unusual US college essay supplemental prompts.

With Essay prompts becoming exceptionally important during the admission process, certain unusual or bizarre Essay Prompts leave educators spellbound. Today, this article will highlight the most Unusual US College Supplemental Essay Prompts from universities such as Tufts University, UChicago, and UPenn. There are more than 900 schools along with 54 international universities which consider Common Application essays, test scores, stellar grades, extracurricular achievements, and common application. 

Commonly known as the personal statement, the Common App Essay prompt is a 650-word essay that tells the reader the kind of person they are. The personal statement needs to be personal and focus on a special element of the readers’ life that is not reflected in the rest of the application. This is way easier said than done appropriately. Standing out in the crowd, especially during college days, can be a tedious process; however, if done rightly, Essay prompts can do so. 

Several universities offer help with college essay structure and format to all applicants so that they can truly bring their best foot forward and showcase their writing skills with utmost dedication and creativity. Here is the list of the most unusual and creative US college supplemental essay prompts. So, what’s the wait for? Let’s dive right in! 

Unusually creative Essay Prompts 2022 

Here are some of the most creative essay prompts that might let your creative juices flow without much thought. 

• University of Chicago

What advice would a wisdom tooth have?

• Chapman University

What would be the one dish that you will cook for the school’s admission team?

• Pomona College

Choose one out of the two; Coke or Pepsi? Marvel or DC? Instagram or TikTok? Which is your favourite pick? 

• University of Vermont

Which Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavour best describes you?

Admission authorities are always on the hunt for creative candidates who display problem-solving, critical, and creative thinking skills all at once through their Essay Prompts. Hence, it is essential for the readers to bring their most creative game out when writing Essay Prompts. 

Unusual US College Supplemental Essay Prompts for last year. 

University of Chicago 

When we talk about the most creative and unusual Essay prompts, the first name which pops up is the University of Chicago. Applicants here come up with the most creative prompts which get them into their dream university. When students visit the University of Chicago website, there are many Essay Prompts with the name of the applicant who submitted them. 

• Prompt 1 

“Have you ever visited warehouses of stores such as Sam’s Club or Costco and wondered who would ever buy this large jar of mustard? I have bought it myself; however, it never stopped me from thinking about other creative aspects and wondering about things such as impulse buys, excessive use of mustard, absurd eating contests, notions of bigness, excess, or storage. Write an essay about a foot-and-a-half tall mustard jar with a creative yet serious tone. 

Tufts University

If the University of Chicago is considered the number one position, Tufts University is nowhere less. Here is their unique essay prompt, which might make you think about how!

• Prompt 1 

It is believed that something as tiny as a butterfly fluttering her wings might cause a typhoon halfway worldwide. History is loaded with these linchpins – events or discussions which might show a larger-than-life impact on the future. Suggest some changes in history and what will be affected the coming tomorrow. 

When this prompt came into the limelight, it grabbed all eyes and became a point of discussion. This was designed for the fans of history, where life would have taken either a better or the worst turn one can ever imagine. Additionally, it would be challenging for all applicants to showcase their creative side while saying something about themselves.  

University of Southern California

The last on the list is the University of Southern California. This is yet another best US universities that might be considered a close competition when it comes to the unusual Essay prompts.

Also Read: How To Apply To US Universities​

• (Short Answer) Hashtag to describe yourself

In Essay prompts, there are generally a few short questions and answers that help college authorities better understand students. In 2017, a unique question was asked to all students, and they were asked to choose a hashtag that best describes them. Although it might sound easier, describing oneself in a single word would require much brainstorming. 

Final words 

Essays are one of the important extracurricular activities for college applications. When writing essay prompts, let your creative juices flow like no other! 

The updates on admissions in college keep on changing. It is essential for students who have ambitions to apply to top universities to keep themselves updated. After two years of pandemic hiatus, admissions in UK Universities have started this week, and they need to be more predictable. Students should check back on this website to know what new has come.

UK University Admissions to Return to ‘More Predictable’ Cycle, Says UCAS Chief

After a two-year pandemic hiatus, this summer admissions in UK Universities have started with a ‘More Predictable’ Cycle as students are waiting for their results of A-Level.

As per the chief executive, Clare Marchant of UCAS, A-level results will be announced this week. Many students in Wales and England can get admission to their selected universities. After the pandemic, formal exams first time going to happen. UCAS’s comment that students who are anticipating low marks with their educators who are working to get inflation in grades in near future.

As this was the time of this pandemic, traditional school exams were replaced by teacher assessments. It helps many students to get the highest marks and top grades. Now that exams are back this year, it is assumed that the attainment level will not work this year.

Russell Group reports that admissions exams will be very competitive for students. However, the universities are giving an equal chance to all to get selected and give them opportunities to grow with them with having a good quality of experience among students.

As admissions in top universities are becoming competitive, this fact is among many students that young ones could miss the opportunity of getting selected in the institution of their choice because they will not get top grades as students will get awarded fewer top grades this year.

We want that most students get admission to their selected universities or colleges. It is assumed this year that the selection process is going back to being more predictable.

UCAS has stated that this year, it is important to record the number of students applying to universities with the required institution of the highest grades.

This year, several offers were refused in the many competitive courses like dentistry and medicine. This year approx. 15.6% of applied students will receive a low offer from 20.4% in 2021. And the higher tariff figure gives fell to 55.1% from 60.5%. Many educational experts have said that low total results will lead to the failure of many students to get their desired offers.

At the University of Buckingham, the Centre for Education and Employment Research’s director, Alan Smithers, about 40000 students are going to lose the chance of getting into their choice college. He adds that 35% of applied students would receive a grade of A or A+ this year.

Other top stories in admissions news this week:

1. The Wall Street Journal says HBS (Harvard Business School) will take a rare move. It is coming with a new scholarship program based on the needs of candidates. This scholarship will include a tuition fee of about 10% for MBA Students. It is very rare when any university gives scholarships based on the needs of students instead of their merit. Before it, HBS provided full scholarships to needy students, about 2%. Now the question arises about how they measure their needy students’ income. Officials of HBS use a formula to calculate the current assets, income, and debts of students and will collect data about their socioeconomic background to check who is eligible to get a full scholarship. 
2. Prior president of 2 HBCUs, NPR has seen that Historically Black Universities and Colleges have a great increase in applications come from black students and families. But the most significant advantage is that HBCUs are a secure place to learn about rising anti-Black racism.
3. The Times reports that in the UK, private school students feel that there will be an increase in their chances of getting selected at Cambridge and Oxford because they are making efforts towards giving more admissions to state school students. So, they think they are turning towards Oxford.

According to Eton College, the students who are going to the US for studies get drawn by the way of study programs, good quality sports programs, and their international perspective. Read this blog to get a deeper understanding of how to apply to US universities. 

US universities have huge diversity, and because of that, it is considered the safest destination for students, especially those from Asian countries; racism need not be a concern. Therefore, the US is a peaceful country for students in that regard. 

If one has chosen to study in the US, there is no need to justify the decision since it is widely regarded as the top study-abroad location. Experts have gathered a few arguments for why picking the US as the study abroad destination is a smart move, not to excuse the choice but to support it even more. Read on to learn how to apply to US universities.

Students’ motivations for considering a country may vary considerably, yet each location has a few distinctive qualities that set it apart from others. Here are a few explanations why studying in the US can be a wise choice. Researchers will provide all the information you need to understand how to pick your dream university in the USA in this guide for international students. 

Anything from lifestyle advice, lodging, and the admissions procedure to well-known universities. The United States continues to be the most popular study destination, drawing more than 9,00,000 students from more than 200 countries, according to the 2021 Open Doors report.

The Right Programs For Oneself

Comparatively to any other nation, the US provides various higher education opportunities. As per the aptitude or aspirations, there is an excellent course for anyone, given the abundance of learning alternatives. Many American institutions also tailor a few courses for students from other countries.

Agility

In America, switching universities after two years of undergraduate coursework in the same faculty is typical. For the same program, most colleges will accept credits from other universities. Therefore, one is not needed to complete all four years of coursework at the same institution to earn the degree. If one has the necessary grades, this flexibility allows one to transfer credits to a college with a more excellent reputation.

It is possible to apply to the program and select a major later for students who intend to enrol in an undergraduate course but have not yet chosen their major. Additionally, students can choose credits from other departments that interest them.

One Can Expand Their Network And Reach

This holds for all study-abroad destinations, not just the US. Every career requires networking, and making the appropriate contacts may take an individual to new heights. Individuals who are multilingual and have lived or worked abroad will have a significant competitive advantage over others in the employment market. There is a very high likelihood that one may encounter well-known figures in well-known American institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and more.

Variety and Diversity

A small private university can be your preference if students want a more intimate setting than a huge public university or college. The people of the US also differ significantly from one another. One will encounter diverse learners from many cultures, such as Mexicans, Asians, and Indians, in addition to American citizens. The United States is a multiracial society still assimilating immigrants, making it a constant melting pot of nations and cultures. This encounter will improve any perspective of the globe.

The American Educational System

It must shock many students who plan to pursue higher education in the US to learn that there is no formal education system. Only by the cash, it provides, which is limited, can the federal government have an impact on education. In addition, there is no national high school graduation test, unlike the CBSE or ICSE board exams in India. However, there are state graduation tests that students must pass to graduate. Therefore, when choosing a college or university at the higher education level, students have a variety of possibilities.

Even though there are organizations that try to rank American ivy league schools and universities, the idea of “fit” is also significant. A prospective student’s selection is influenced by various criteria, including the GPA* of admitted students, the available majors, the school’s location, the number of pupils enrolled, and the atmosphere on campus. In addition, public funding supports some colleges and universities, while private funding is used for others.

Conclusion

A student visa must be obtained to study in the US as an international student. In addition, one must be accepted by one of the universities they have submitted to begin this procedure since they will provide them with a vital document called the I-20 or DS-2019, depending on the visa type.

One of the most well-liked places to study is the United Kingdom. The UK is a global leader in many fields of education and is home to some of the oldest and most esteemed colleges. The UK has attracted some of the brightest minds in the world due to its reputation and legacy in terms of its educational system. Degrees from the UK can have an extraordinary and significant impact on your career. Keep reading for more information on how to apply to UK universities.

Why choose UK universities?

• High-quality education: UK universities are among the best in the world and have a remarkable international reputation. Four of the top 10 institutions on the planet are located in the UK, and UK research is among the best in the world.
• Join a reputed company: International students have always been welcomed to study at UK institutions. Those who choose to do so will be in the company of some of the world’s top academics.
• High employability rate: Employers need graduates with a specific skill set, including the capacity to think critically, creatively, and effectively. International governments, institutions, and employers all value UK education. Academic standards are very high, and getting an education will give one a solid foundation to increase their chances of earning more money and getting a career.

Which types of students are sought after by UK universities?

On their websites, UK universities will make clear the test score requirements for that particular programme. One can submit an application for consideration for the programme if one achieves those minimal scores. Naturally, one’s chances are better if your scores higher. 

One needs the best extracurricular activities, leadership positions, and community involvement to set yourself apart from other candidates in the same discipline with comparable grades. One will stand out as a promising candidate if they participate in high school and the local community and demonstrate promise in their selected subject. Therefore, a strong candidate would have a variety of extracurricular activities that are both relevant to and unrelated to their field of study; they could range from clubs to internships.

What is the application procedure for students in the UK?

The admissions procedure in the UK is simple and consists of three steps:

• The evaluation of the application is done as the first phase. Based on the application, institutions choose which students to accept. After submitting an application through UCAS, the scores, marks, and other academic data are the first things institutions will see.
• One will have to wait while the admissions staff at each university reviews the application after it has been submitted. Based on the application, each university will next make its own determination about who it will admit to its program. 
• One must apply to the Home Office after being admitted to a university. The Home Office will review the application, which will also decide whether or not one is permitted to enter the nation.
• If one is permitted entry, one must then apply to a university to register for classes.

What is Required to Apply to a UK University?

All of the following materials and knowledge of where to obtain them must be on hand before one submits an application.

One may wish to start gathering these resources as soon as they decide that they want to apply to a university in the UK because many of them are the same for all universities.

• Report of the GCSE results: For most universities, an application will need a GCSES to score report.
• Transcripts: Transcripts from any high school one has attended, as well as any post-secondary institutions one may have attended, are required. Along with the passport, one must provide copies of their academic transcripts.
• One must submit essays on the subjects they’ve selected to their top UK colleges.
• Materials for your application: The majority of application materials must be uploaded. The application, personal statement, academic transcripts, GCSES score report, essay themes, essay questions, and two reference letters must all be uploaded.
• Almost all colleges demand a required language test, such as the IELTS, for all applicants to study in the UK.

Winding up

The university system in the UK has a lot of positive aspects. Few nations have such a reliable, efficient system in place to guarantee the easy registration of overseas students. To offer the best chance of being accepted to colleges and universities like Oxford, UCL, LSE, or Cambridge, use the UCAS resource to get a head start on further education! 

One of the most critical decisions you will have to make as a young adult is choosing the right university. While some of you may have known your ideal university since childhood, others must weigh various variables to decide which university would be the best fit. A decision-making process involves lengthy pros-and-cons lists, countless hours of research, and extensive deliberations on the merits of each institution. So, how to pick your dream university? Read on to find out.

What to think about while choosing the right university for oneself?

●      Subject ranking

It is important to start researching colleges as soon as you know what you want to study. Finding universities that fit your interests might be facilitated by looking at university and subject-specific rankings. Additionally, keep in mind that only colleges and universities that have received certification from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program are permitted to admit international students.

●      Location

The location is another critical consideration when selecting a university. You may aspire to attend a university in the US, the UK, or anywhere in the world. Still, each state and city has a distinctive personality, culture, climate, economy, and history.

●      Course content

Many students are dissatisfied with their programs because they failed to review the course material before submitting their university applications. Even if you genuinely enjoy the institution overall, you might have a unique interest in a particular area of their field, so you should see if it is included in the curriculum.

You can contact the university directly if they’re unhappy with the information they find or need more specifics. After all, the courses are what students will spend their time studying.

●      Accommodation

For most international students, relocating to another nation to further their education is thrilling and terrifying. This is why it’s critical to get a head start on your research and gather all the data you require to live responsibly during your academic years.

The majority of universities provide housing on their campuses for students. The opportunity to engage and get to know other students will be fantastic for students since they will likely share a kitchen with them. You must verify all of this information at each university you apply.

●      Placement

Most students’ primary motivation for further education is to secure their ideal career path and suitable employment. Therefore, it’s essential to research the placement options a college offers before enrolling, including whether or not they host a pool drive or invite employers to choose qualified applicants. Additionally, find out if the college has any business partnerships that allow students to learn more about programs that are relevant to their field and if they are encouraged to take part in any programs that could advance their careers.

●      Facilities

The quality of the facilities is crucial because you will be attending the institution for several years to complete your studies. During an open day, you will be able to inspect the facilities properly; in the interim, try to get a sense of how well they are maintained. For instance, one might want to use the library for study purposes or cutting-edge access labs. In addition, one might be interested in attending a more prestigious institution with a long history, like Oxford or Cambridge, where research is prioritized and the curriculum is more conventional. All these elements, however unimportant they may seem now, will become crucial after you begin your degree.

Final thoughts

Selecting a college is akin to picking a platform to help students’ professional development. Most students only choose colleges that are well-known or have attractive ads. All the above factors will give the student a clear picture before selecting their ideal college. If aspiring to attend Ivy League Schools, you might find this blog helpful – Visit Here.