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.

Moving from course-focused UCAS answers to the Common App's broad personal reflection is a real shift in style. Building memoir reading and low-stakes journalling habits in Year 11 and 12 helps UK students prepare long before drafting begins.

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.

Choosing between A levels and the IB Diploma? US admissions offices care less about which route you take than why you chose it. Here is how to balance rigour with strong predicted grades, and where the EPQ or Extended Essay fits in.

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.

Applying to US universities can feel overwhelming—especially when students are unsure where they’re likely to be admitted or offered funding. Reverse admissions, pioneered by Concourse, turns the process on its head by allowing universities to approach students directly with offers of admission and scholarships, helping families explore strong-fit options with far less stress and uncertainty.