Practical tools for every step of the journey

From STEM and social sciences to the arts, US university summer programmes offer UK students a chance to experience American campus life, explore academic interests in depth, and gain insight into whether a university is the right fit—long before applications are due.

Successful US university applications don’t happen by accident. From taking ownership of the process and securing strong teacher recommendations to planning standardised tests early and staying organised, students who focus on what they can control put themselves in the strongest possible position.

A gap year can be a powerful opportunity for growth, exploration, and clarity before university. From structured programmes and internships to work, volunteering, and travel, this guide explores meaningful gap year options—and explains how UK students can plan a gap year that strengthens US university applications rather than delaying them.

There can often be significant pressure around the crafting of the Common App essay, which requires students to embrace introspection and storytelling – often new skills for them! This month, expert university admissions counsellor Sam Harris shares her insights on how to prepare for this process in a low pressure way.

Madrid is an increasingly popular destination for UK students seeking an international degree taught in English. From US-style liberal arts at SLU Madrid to globally focused business education at ESCP and IE, this guide explores the key differences between Madrid’s leading universities and helps students understand which environment may suit them best.

Your school counsellor is one of the most important partners in the US application process. By asking the right questions early—from internal deadlines and recommendations to testing and essay support—students can avoid last-minute stress and take real ownership of their applications.

University Coach Carrie Jorgenson discusses the importance of campus visits and how to make the most out of the experience.

When it comes to selecting courses for the next academic year, it can often feel like there’s a lot of pressure to strike the perfect balance between a difficult schedule and one that will allow students to get the best marks possible. This article emphasizes the importance of formulating a four-year academic plan to avoid this stress, and offers insights for international academic systems as well.

Finishing GCSE study and looking ahead to the upper school is a really exciting time for students and one that comes with many new opportunities. When planning for the academic piece of your final two years in school, think carefully about your skills, interests, and ambitions, and make sure you have a clear ‘why’ behind the ‘what’ of your curriculum and subject choices. Read this month's piece by Guidewell Global UK university admissions counsellor Sam Harris, answering common questions about how to select sixth form subjects during Year 11 if you're interested in applying to US universities.

Planning the perfect university visit shouldn’t just be left to travel agents. With the right approach, anyone can craft a thoughtful itinerary. In this article, seasoned university admissions counsellor Carrie Jorgenson discusses the nuts and bolts of developing a university visit itinerary that will be worth both your time and your investment.