College advising: College in the land of Haggis and Kilts!

What? Haggis for breakfast and kilts in your closet?  I've just returned from Scotland where I learned to love all things Scottish-- the accent, the food, the kilts, and even the bagpipes! You might have heard of Oxford and Cambridge (in England) for study abroad programs, but the University of St. Andrews or the University of Edinburgh offer even more for less.

Located in the Fife and Lothian parts of Scotland, the University Edinburgh (UE) and The University of St. Andrews (USA), offer competitive admission and a top education to strong American students. If you have a good GPA, a sense of adventure, and the hope of an international future, think Scotland!

Why Study in Scotland?

·      The cost of attending either of these schools is surprisingly less than private school tuition in the US.

·      Admission is also easier to gain. Both cost and admission are on par with the University of California system here in the states.

·      Both schools are hundreds of years old with architecture and libraries that are constant reminders of the legacy of a Scottish education.

·      Strong students in science can speed through their studies and earn their MD in just five years. (Passing the comps to practice in the US, however, is not included.)

·      Students interested in studying foreign affairs or working in an international company have a tremendous advantage by being so close to Europe.

·      Students who want an impressive degree, a name that will get a reaction, consider Scotland.

·      As many as 1,600 international students attend each of these campuses, so you won't be alone. 

·      For Scottish nationals, either of these schools is considered the “most competitive” for admission. Since so much education comes from other students, you will be getting the best both in and out of the classroom. 

·      Chances for other international travel are easy. Greece, for example, is just two hours away!

·      For golfers, the chance to study at St. Andrews will offer you a student rate to play any of the five great golf courses at St. Andrews. Another bonus, it is easy to find restaurant and golf related jobs!

·      After just a few weeks, you'll understand the lovely Scottish brogue and be ready to pick up the accent yourself and be ready to talk like a native in no time.

Scottish Schools Might Not Be for You:

·      Be sure to visit UE or USA before attending. After your acceptance, take a quick trip over in February just to be sure. You'll encounter winter at it's worst. If you still love it, you are ready!

·      Since you're going to be a long way from home, be honest about homesickness. The lucky fix for many students is that Skype is free and offers a great way to see and hear the faces and voices of your friends and family.

·      Chances of coming home for Thanksgiving are nil. The holiday doesn't exist in Scotland. Christmas will be a generous home visit, however.

·      Even though the whole nation is beginning to support a non- smoking culture, UE and USA students still smoke. Gradually, students are getting the message and stubbing out their "cigs."

·      Scottish tuitions equal the cost of a UC but do not offer merit scholarships to foreign students. And, of course, there is the varying exchange rate and added travel costs to consider.

·      You're expected to declare your major upon entering and stay with that path of study. If you change majors, you will likely be starting over.

And while the calendar will line up nicely, holidays will vary. 

Receiving a world class education at a truly classic university, and taking advantage of an international location are fabulous reasons to consider either the University of Edinburgh or the University of St. Andrews.

All the best for your college applications from www.PerfectFitcollege.net