Education

 

Education is a powerful mirror of a society’s values, shaping not only individuals but also national identity. In England, the education system is deeply rooted in centuries of tradition while continuing to evolve in response to social and economic change. Comparing it to the U.S. system—particularly in terms of cost, access, and structure—offers important insights into how education reflects each nation’s beliefs and priorities.

Public education in England is free and available to all students between the ages of 5 and 18. The system is funded by the government and administered through local authorities. Education is structured into five main stages: early years, primary school, secondary school, further education (FE), and higher education (HE). Primary and secondary education conclude with the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams. After completing these exams, students may choose to continue with further education for two additional years, typically through A-levels (Advanced Level qualifications) or vocational training—until age 18. Although not compulsory in a traditional sense, the government requires all young people to be in education, employment, or training until they turn 18.

After completing A-levels or equivalent qualifications, many students pursue higher education. In 2022, 37.5% of 18-year-olds in England entered full-time higher education. Rate of graduation vary by institution type: 85% for public universities, 60% for private non-profit universities, and just 25% for private for-profit institutions. Female students are more likely than males to attend and complete university in the UK. According to a 2024 study by University College London, 57.3% of graduates were female, compared to 42.7% male graduates. Additionally, the quality of degrees awarded also shows demographic disparities. In the 2021-2022 academic year, 36.1% of white graduates received a first-class degree, compared to 48.7% of mixed-ethnicity graduates who received an upper second-class degree. In contrast, Black students had the lowest rate of first-class degrees, at just 17.3%.

Demographic differences further impact university access and success. Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and certain ethnic minority groups are less likely to attend top-tier universities or complete their degrees on time. Similarly, students from rural areas often face geographic and financial challenges that can limit participation.

Admission into the University of Cambridge, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, is highly selective. Applicants must present top A-level results, a UCAS application, a personal statement detailing their academic interests, strong teacher recommendations, and often college-specific written assessments or interviews. Some courses, such as Medicine or Engineering, also require entrance exams like BMAT or STEP.

In contrast, the University of Idaho follows a more accessible admissions model. Most undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. ACT or SAT scores are required only if the applicant's GPA is below 3.00. Students must submit transcripts and complete an online application. This more open admissions policy reflects the American value of broad educational access. In comparison, Cambridge’s rigorous process aligns with the UK’s emphasis on academic prestige and merit-based selection.

Many of the same majors are offered at both Cambridge and the University of Idaho, including Philosophy, History, Computer Science, Education, and Engineering. However, Cambridge offers unique courses like Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic, reflecting its academic tradition and historical focus. Meanwhile, the University of Idaho offers degrees in areas like Agricultural and Life Sciences, which cater to regional and practical industry needs.

I also discovered that Cambridge offers a six-year Medicine degree with opportunities for research and project work throughout the course. This is somewhat comparable to the Medical Sciences program at the University of Idaho, both aiming to prepare students for careers in the medical field.

While many majors align across both systems, there’s a notable structural difference: Cambridge students apply directly into a specific course and specialize from the start, whereas in the U.S., students often declare a major later and can switch fields more easily. This reflects broader cultural values—the U.S. emphasizes choice, flexibility, and career readiness, while British universities prioritize academic depth, tradition, and early specialization.

Both systems have their strengths and limitations. England’s education system offers rigorous training and a strong academic foundation, though sometimes at the expense of flexibility or accessibility. The U.S. model encourages broad participation and exploration but often struggles with consistency and affordability. Understanding these differences enhances cross-cultural awareness and invites us to reflect on how education shapes who we are—and what we value—as societies.