It’s time to learn the truth about the United States’ No. 1 rival when it comes to education: the United Kingdom! Often, students find comfort in the thought of studying in an English-speaking country. Safe, culturally diverse, and a popular destination for travelers thanks to its rich heritage and old-world charm, it’s no wonder the United Kingdom attracts thousands of prospective college-goers each year.

In the US, undergraduate college programs are four years. In the UK, a bachelor’s degree takes three years to earn. It is also possible to enter directly into a graduate program after completing an undergraduate program. UK ranks 11th on the GMI Education index and 5th on Quality of Life according to the GPI report. Plus, graduate programs there are more often subsidized by the government or offered tuition-free!