International Universities
Interest in international university destinations has never been greater, and accordingly, the College offers a robust programme to ensure our applicants are in the best possible place to succeed. We regularly support over 30 pupils through the application process to multiple countries, with 10% of the graduating class matriculating internationally, and are proud to have pupils enrolled at some of the top global institutions.
The Futures Department includes a dedicated International Advising team with its own application support programme, beginning in the Lower Sixth. Pupils are brought face-to-face with university representatives and learn about the opportunities of a global education, and receive dedicated workshops on the ins and outs of US university applications, from supplemental essays to the Activity Log. There is weekly 1:1 advising, where pupils can develop their college lists in conversation with advisors who have a singular grasp of what different institutions offer or receive feedback on their Common App essay. The College works with UES Education to support Lower Sixth pupils throughout their standardised testing experience and ensure that if they test, they start off from a position of strength.
In an increasingly competitive application landscape, more and more emphasis is being placed on the “fit” of applicants and the totality of what they will bring to the campus community. Marlborough is uniquely suited to rise to this challenge and goes beyond purely satisfying academic ambition. Meaningful community engagement, an interest in the world around them, and a sense of purpose are nurtured in a school committed to the full boarding ethos, and our tailored advising programme ensures that Marlburians are applying to, and matriculating at, global institutions that are best-suited to them.
Going abroad can also necessitate a more extensive conversation around finances. Marlborough is proud to be awarded scholarships to attend US universities for sport, music and academic merit each year, which can be seen as a vote of confidence in a Marlborough education on the part of universities and colleges.
Importantly, our international university programme extends beyond the application for each pupil. We have worked over the last ten years to be a leader in the global advising community. Through sitting on committees (International ACAC, University of Toronto UK Advisory Board and Intl ACAC Standardised Testing), attending conferences (International ACAC in Oregon, Rutgers, Cleveland, New Orleans and London Ontario), and visiting universities – over 50 global universities over the last five years – Marlborough is now the first port of call for universities trying to gain a better understanding of the UK system, as well as the go-to centre for other UK schools needing advice. It is evident that the quality of the Marlborough education is highly valued and the influence of attending Marlborough as a pupil continues to grow internationally.
