Why more American students are considering UK universities in 2025

Written By Paul Hebron
Photo of a smiling US student as he considers study in the UK

With growing uncertainty in U.S. education under Trump’s 2025 policies, an increasing number of American students are considering studying in the UK as a smarter, more stable alternative this September.

The number of international students considering the U.S. as their study destination has dropped to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a report by Study Portals.

While countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK continue to attract growing numbers of students, the U.S. is steadily losing ground. The report highlights a shift among domestic students, with a 20.5% drop in American interest in U.S. degrees during the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period last year.

Why more Americans are choosing UK universities in 2025

UK scholarship experts Scholarship Scanner have reported a clear rise in interest from American applicants - with U.S. traffic to the site having doubled following a huge spike in May. Both American and international students are becoming deeply concerned about the Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies including:

  • the recent pause on new international student visa interviews

  • efforts to ban international students at institutions like Harvard

  • the plan to "aggressively" revoke Chinese student visas

These measures have contributed to growing uncertainty around studying in the U.S., pushing more students to consider alternative destinations. As a result, American student interest in UK degrees in 2025 has surged. UK universities are increasingly seen as a stable, welcoming, and academically rigorous option for U.S. applicants.

The "Trump effect on American students studying abroad" is especially evident in postgraduate applications, with many students now prioritizing countries with transparent visa processes, inclusive policies, and globally respected education systems. For these reasons, it’s clear why Americans are choosing UK universities - not just for their academic quality and shorter degree programs, but also for the sense of security and opportunity they offer in today’s turbulent global landscape.

Trump’s 2025 policies spark study abroad surge

Recent changes in U.S. education policy - from funding cuts to student loan rollbacks and stricter immigration controls, have left many American students and families questioning the value and viability of studying at home.

Whether it’s concerns about freedom of expression on campus, increasing tuition fees, or visa restrictions affecting international students, there’s a growing sense that the traditional American higher education route is under pressure.

But there is another option - and it’s just across the Atlantic.

What makes the UK a top choice for US students

The UK offers a globally respected education, shorter degrees, a clearer visa route, and access to UK university scholarships for international students. Here’s what makes it such an attractive option:

🎓 1. Shorter, cost-effective degrees

  • Bachelor’s: three years (vs. four in the US)

  • Master’s: one year (vs. two in the US)

  • Lower overall tuition fees and living costs

Bonus: You graduate faster and start earning sooner.

So, overall it could be cheaper to go to university in the UK from the US.

🌍 2. Global recognition and academic excellence

The UK is home to some of the world’s top-ranked institutions - from Oxford and Cambridge to cutting-edge modern universities. Your degree will be internationally recognised by employers and graduate schools. Read our guide on how to find the best UK universities for American undergraduates.

🚀 3. Two year UK post study work visa

Under the UK’s Graduate Route, international students can stay and work for two years (or three for PhD graduates) after completing their degree - with no sponsorship required.

You may have seen recent headlines about a UK Government proposal to shorten the post-study visa to 18 months. At this stage, it's just that: a proposal. No changes have been approved, and no implementation date has been announced.

That means students starting in September 2025 can still benefit from the full two-year Graduate Route - making this an ideal time to take advantage of the UK’s generous post-study work opportunities.

🗣️ 4. No language barrier

No need to learn a new language or take a TOEFL if you’re already studying in English — although some UK universities may ask for SAT/ACT equivalents or AP courses.

How to apply to UK universities from the USA?

If you're wondering how to apply to UK universities from the USA, the process differs slightly depending on the level of study.

  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) courses - applications are submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) - a centralised platform that handles UK university admissions for US students and applicants worldwide.

  • Postgraduate (Master’s) courses - the application process for British universities normally requires you to apply directly through the university’s website.

Many universities outline US GPA to UK university requirements and accept common US qualifications such as SATs, ACTs, or Advanced Placement (AP) scores. These details are usually available on individual course webpages or through the university’s International Office, which supports those looking to study in the UK as an American student.

Understanding the UK vs US college admissions process is important. Unlike the US, the UK application process is typically more focused on academic qualifications and your chosen subject area.

If you're preparing your UK college application from the USA, it's important to check deadlines early, as they can vary depending on the course and institution.

UK student visa for Americans

So, how can Americans go to university in the UK? To study in England, American students need to apply for a Student visa. You will need to show proof of university acceptance, proof of funds to cover your tuition fees and living costs, and English language ability. Most visas are issued quickly, and you can apply up to six months before your course starts.

Is it cheaper to go to university in the UK from the US?

For American students considering study abroad in England from USA, UK degrees save you time and money.

  • American Bachelor’s degrees typically take four years to complete, while UK undergraduate degrees are just three years long. The main exceptions are specialist programmes - such as MEng (Master of Engineering) or MPharm (Master of Pharmacy) which are designed as integrated Master’s degrees. This means they combine both undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single four-year course.

  • In the U.S., Master’s degrees often require two years, whereas UK Master’s programmes can be completed in just one year - saving both time and money.

Tuition fees in the U.S. can range anywhere from $25,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on the institution, not including living expenses. Meanwhile, UK tuition fees for US students cost between £10,000 and £26,000 annually, with lower living costs in many cities outside London. When you consider the shorter course durations and cheaper UK college tuition fees, UK university admissions for US students offer a more cost-effective path to a globally respected degree, even before scholarships for international students are taken into account.

UK scholarships for American students

You can study in the UK with financial help — and many U.S. students do. There are many UK scholarships for American students, including government-funded, university-specific, and subject-based awards. Popular options include:

Many institutions offer dedicated USA student scholarships at UK universities. Studying in the UK offers a fantastic opportunity to:

🏆 Gain a world-class education

💰 Save time and money

🌏 Build a global career

With the right financial support, making the move can be even more affordable than you might think. Use our Scholarship Finder to see which UK scholarships you're eligible for as a U.S. student. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, there are numerous scholarships for American students at universities in England.

We understand the challenges that international students face when applying to UK universities. Scholarship Scanner provides expert advice on applying to UK universities, and our scholarship blog shares latest updates on UK university funding opportunities. Our website can also help you to start your UK scholarship search and find the best financial support for your studies.