Entry requirements | Information for students from the US | The University of Manchester (2024)

Applying from High School

An undergraduate degree in England is only three years – rather than four – in duration. We do not teach any general education classes, meaning that you only study the subject area of your choice from the start. Entry requirements are transparent, and based on standardised test scores.

OurA-levelandGCSErequirements vary by course. For applicantswho are studying or have completed the US High School Diploma at an accredited school within the US, we typically require qualifications which are the equivalent of:

  • 3 A-levels (at scores such as A*, A, B)

and

  • GCSE English and Mathematics/Science (at scores such as A or 7, B or 6, C or 4)

Equivalent qualifications to GCSE (any of the below):

  • SAT I with a score of 1290
  • ACT with a minimum score of 27
  • High School diploma with grade 12 classes at the grade equivalency of a GCSE exam (for example, A in Mathematics in grade 12 is equivalent to 7 in GCSE in Mathematics).

Equivalent qualifications to 3 A-levels:

OurA-levelrequirements can typically be met through a combination of:

Three AP testsorSAT subject tests(taken prior to cancellation in 2021) inseparate subjects(including any subject requirements), plus completion of the High School Diploma (for which we do require a specific GPA of 3.0).

We can accept any combination of these requirements, for example one AP test and two SAT subject tests. These exams will be considered when taken within the past two years before enrolling on your chosen course.

Some of our courses will consider applicants substituting college level classes in place of the AP test / SAT subject test on a case-by-case basis.

Due to the volume of applications we receive, combined with the vast range in schools and grading scales across the US, we cannot provide pre-application confirmation as to whether specific departments and courses will consider a specific college level class in place of an AP test or SAT subject test. Consideration of applicants presenting a college level class in substitution of an AP test or SAT subject test will be on a case-by-case basis once we receive the application. For the most selective courses, preference is likely to be given to applicants presenting a full suite of three AP tests or SAT subject tests.

It isnotnecessary to have taken a full suite of AP tests or college level classes at the time of application. Applicants who will be taking these tests or classes in their senior year and are on track to achieve the scores detailed below will be eligible to apply.

The typical scores that we consider equivalent to three A Levels are:

A-level requirementsAP equivalency
A*A*A*5,5,5,5
A*A*A5,5,5,5
A*AA5,5,5
AAA5,5,5
AAB5,5,4
ABB5,4,4

For applicants aiming to substitute college level classes in place of AP or SAT subject tests, the typical scores that we consider equivalent to one A-level are:

A-level requirementsCollege level class equivalency**
A*A+
AA/A-
BB+/B/B-

**College level classesshould be in a named academic subject (rather than practical or recreational) and must be the equivalent of three units/credits or one semester in length.

Subject specific requirements

No specific AP tests or SAT subject tests will be required for courses that do not have specific A-level or GCSE requirements. Specific AP tests and SAT subject tests required for courses that have specific A-level or GCSE requirements at scores of A or 7 (or above) are detailed below as per 2021 entry.

Please note that our academic Departments review entry requirements at the beginning of the application cycle, after UCAS opens but before they issue decisions on applications. For this reason, we are not fully able to confirm requirements in advance of accepting applications and variations from 2021 requirements may occur. 2021 entry requirements should be taken asindicative of likely requirementsfor 2022 entry.

When submitting your UCAS application it is essential that you detail target / predicted scores for tests you are due to take in Senior Year, as well as achieved scores for tests you have already completed.

Applying from Community College

Students will need to provide high-school grades and standardised tests as though applying directly from high school. You should also provide details of credits taken at Community College or Four-Year College.

Transferring from a Four-Year institution

A minimum GPA of 3.0, preferably 3.3 or above is required for most courses.

Students interested in gaining advanced standing* (beginning the course in Year 2), must demonstrate that studies undertaken to date match what has been covered here in Manchester.

*Year 2 is the highest advanced standing we offer.

Submitting your application

The only way to apply to The University of Manchester for an undergraduate / bachelor’s degree is via UCAS – the UK’s centralised application portal. UCAS allows you to make a maximum of five applications to UK universities or courses. You can find out more by visiting The University of Manchester guide to applying, or by visiting UCAS.com

Once submitted, we aim to respond to your application within two weeks.

The UK operates a system of 'conditional' and 'unconditional' offers. If we want to make you an offer, but you have not yet taken your AP tests, then we would usually issue you a conditional offer subject to you achieving certain test scores. You can submit your test scores after you have made your application, and this is usual practice in the UK. It is for this reason that you must detail tests which you are due to take on your UCAS application.

A conditional offer is a guaranteed place at the University providing you achieve the conditions set.

The Designated Institution Code for The University of Manchester is 3737.

ACT has assigned college code number 7026 to The University of Manchester.

Entry requirements | Information for students from the US | The University of Manchester (2024)

FAQs

Does University of Manchester accept students from the US? ›

Each year we welcome a growing number of students from across the US, here are some of the reasons why: Ranking – Manchester ranks 35th in the world, 9th in Europe and 5th in the UK in the Academic Ranking of World Universities, 2021.

What is the requirement to get into Manchester? ›

With a GPA of 3.41, Manchester University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes.

What do you need to go to university in the UK from USA? ›

How to get into a UK university as an American
  1. Meet university entry requirements.
  2. Apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
  3. Provide proof of funding/financial stability.
  4. Obtain a student visa.
  5. Pay the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (£470 per year)
Feb 2, 2021

How do international students get into Manchester University? ›

Applicants from outside the UK will usually need to meet specific English language requirements to study at Manchester. These vary by course and department but are usually the equivalent of IELTS 6.0–7.0 (or 5.5 for foundation courses).

Can a US citizen go to university in the UK? ›

If you're a student from United States, you'll need the Tier 4 (General) student visa to study in United Kingdom. This visa is made specifically for students like you who are ready to begin their study abroad adventure in United Kingdom.

Can an American go to a UK university? ›

The first step for American students applying to colleges in the UK is to set up a profile with UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS is a web-based platform that all students – UK citizens and international students – will use to apply to colleges in the UK.

Is University of Manchester difficult to get into? ›

In 2021, the undergraduate Manchester acceptance rate was 12.5% (based on data by UCAS). The university received 88,330 applications and granted places to just 11,070 students.

What GPA do UK universities require? ›

If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 80% or a GPA of 3.75 out of 4.0. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 85% and above or a GPA of 3.85 out of 4.0.

Do UK universities accept US high school diploma? ›

USA High School Diploma

Our American High School Diploma qualifications are accepted by all UK universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

Does the UK accept American degrees? ›

American degrees are considered valid in many Commonwealth countries. Whether the purpose is continuing education or applying for a job, your degree earned from a US college or university won't go to waste.

How do I transfer from a US university to a UK university? ›

Application process
  1. Application fees.
  2. Official transcripts from your secondary school and current university.
  3. Reference letters (these can be from current professors)
  4. Admissions essays.
  5. Personal statement outlining your reasons for transferring. Make sure you focus on positives, and do not criticise your current institution.

Is SAT required for UK universities? ›

Though SAT is considered non-mandatory in some institutes of the UK but somewhere it is required. It includes – Maths and English sections of reading & writing. A student must score well in order to be placed in the university of his or her own choice. The maximum total score is 2400.

Is it harder for international students to get into UK universities? ›

Is it easier for international students to get into UK universities? Yes; most universities in the UK are very welcoming to international students and actually have a higher acceptance rate for international students than domestic ones.

What are the requirements for international students in the UK? ›

Undergraduate Entry Requirements
  • Certificate for completing 10+2 education from a recognised Indian broad with minimum marks.
  • Original academic transcripts from previous academic institutions.
  • Statement of Purpose.
  • Letters of Recommendations.
  • Scores of English Proficiency Tests.
  • Passport and other ID proof.

Is Manchester cheap for international students? ›

Cheap Cost Of Living

Most students pick universities in Manchester due to the low cost of living. If you live in a student hall, your cost of living will be pretty low.

How long can I stay in the UK as a US citizen? ›

You can visit the UK as a Standard Visitor for tourism, business, study (courses up to 6 months) and other permitted activities. You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You might be able to apply to stay for longer in certain circ*mstances, for example to get medical treatment.

How long can a US student stay in the UK? ›

How long you can stay depends on the length of your course and what study you've already completed in the UK. If you're 18 or over and your course is at degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years. If it's below degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

How can I study from USA to UK? ›

Applying to study in the UK is a straightforward process and we will guide you through it step by step.
  1. Decide on a university or college and course. ...
  2. Register and apply. ...
  3. Accept your offer. ...
  4. Arrange funding. ...
  5. Apply for a visa. ...
  6. Prepare for your stay.

How much does it cost to go to school in the UK as an American? ›

At public UK universities, tuition costs can vary significantly. The 'home' fee usually ranges from 5,500 to 10,200 EUR per year, depending on the university, the type of discipline, and the length of your studies. The 'international' fee usually adds another 3,000–8,000 EUR to the initial 'home' fee.

How much does it cost for an American to study in the UK? ›

Undergraduate - International undergraduate tuition fees vary from £11,400 - £38,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £22,200 per year.

Is it easier to study in UK or US? ›

UK education system offers you plenty of choices in the courses you can study. While, the degree courses in the US are rigid. The length of a degree course in the UK is less while the courses in the US are much longer. So now you know, studying in UK is better than US.

Which University is easiest to get into UK? ›

Top 20 universities which are easiest to get into in UK
  • Coventry University.
  • London Metropolitan University.
  • University of Exeter.
  • University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
  • Newman University, Birmingham.
  • University College Birmingham.
  • University of Winchester.
  • Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Is University of Manchester expensive? ›

The University of Manchester fees ranges from £20,000 to £47,000 per year for the academic year 2022.

Is Manchester a prestigious University? ›

The University of Manchester prides itself as one of the most respected institutions in the world, a reputation earned through the high quality of education offered throughout its almost 200-year history.

What is a 4.0 GPA equivalent to in the UK? ›

First class honours (70+) = 4.0 GPA. Upper Second Class honours (65-69) = 3.7 GPA. Upper Second class honours (60-64) = 3.3 GPA. Lower second class honours (55-59) =3.0 GPA.

What is a 3.7 GPA equivalent to in the UK? ›

Marks
GPAUK module marksGPA
3.765-693.7
3.360-643.3
355-593
2.750-542.7
5 more rows

Does UK accept low GPA? ›

While a good GPA score helps to secure admission easily, there are many colleges/universities in the UK that accept low GPA and create a level playing field for international students to excel despite the rocky academic start.

What is a US GED equivalent in the UK? ›

It's the equivalent of A-Levels. High school is 4 years, 9th grade through 12th grade, which roughly equates to two GCSE years and two A-Level years. kids who don't graduate high school often go back later and get their GED - General Education Diploma - which roughly equates to GCSEs.

Is British curriculum harder than American? ›

There's nothing really different between the UK and the US when it comes down to Tests and Schools. The UK have harder tests but a laughable school grading scale, while the US has slightly easier tests but a harsher grading scale.

What is an American high school equivalent to in UK? ›

Year / Grade Placement
AgeUK YearsUS/International Grades
13 - 14Year 9Middle School
14 - 15Year 10High School
15 - 16Year 11
16 - 17Year 12 / Lower 6th
10 more rows

Is an American degree the same as a UK degree? ›

The UK almost exclusively has shorter courses than their American counterparts, and this goes for all levels of higher education. A bachelor's degree in the UK is normally 3 years, to the American 4 years. Taking a master's in the UK will typically take just 1 year, while in the U.S it is 2 years.

Are US degrees recognized in Europe? ›

There is no automatic EU-wide recognition of academic diplomas. You may therefore need to go through a national procedure to get your academic degree or diploma recognised in another EU country, if you seek admission to a further course of study there.

Do UK universities accept international transfer students? ›

Can international student transfer to another university in the UK? Yes, you can transfer to another university in the UK, you are required to make an application for the courses or courses you prefer.

Can you go to university in the UK if you are moving to UK from US? ›

Moving From the US to the UK for College

You can move to the UK for your studies if you've been accepted to an approved institution. In this case, you need to apply for a student visa.

How can international students transfer from one university to another in USA? ›

You need to inform the DSO that you have arrived in the United States and want to transfer immediately to another SEVP-certified school. You must show proof of acceptance to your new school. You must report to your new school and enroll in a full course of study within 30 days of arriving in the United States.

What is SAT called in the UK? ›

SATs are national tests that children take twice during their primary school life. Firstly, at the end of Key Stage 1 (KS1) in Year 2, and then secondly, at the end of Key Stage 2 (KS2) in Year 6. These standardised tests are actually known as End of Key Stage Tests and Assessments, but most people know them as SATs.

What is a good SAT score for UK? ›

101-119 – Any score above 100 (including 120) means that a child has exceeded the expected standard in the test. 100 – This is the expected standard for children (and essentially means a 'pass').

What do UK universities look for in international students? ›

In general, universities evaluate applicants based on the following criteria: Secondary school exams/grades/GPA and scores on standardized tests like the SAT and AP. Personal statement. Letters of reference.

Does university of Manchester accept international students? ›

Each year we welcome one of the largest international student populations in the UK to our University. Explore our online prospectus to learn more about Manchester and life as a student here.

Is it hard to get into university of Manchester for international students? ›

It also received more than 88,000 applications in 2021, making it one of the most popular universities in the UK. Although Manchester does not require admissions tests for any subject other than Medicine, its entry requirements for some of its most demanding courses are extremely high.

Does the Manchester College accept international students? ›

Applying for a university level course or degree at The Manchester College is really easy. The application process is slightly different depending on whether you'd like to study full time, part time or as an international student: just select your choice and follow the simple steps below.

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