Can I get into a US grad school with only two references as a UK undergrad?

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SUMMARY

To gain admission to a US graduate school, a UK undergraduate must secure three references, which can be challenging due to the limited opportunities for undergraduate research in the UK. The discussion emphasizes the importance of developing relationships with professors, particularly during final year classes, which are smaller and allow for more interaction. Engaging with lecturers during office hours can lead to obtaining a meaningful reference. Ultimately, proactive networking and relationship-building are crucial for enhancing the application profile.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of US graduate school application requirements
  • Familiarity with the concept of Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs)
  • Knowledge of the importance of academic references in graduate admissions
  • Ability to engage effectively with academic staff
NEXT STEPS
  • Research strategies for building relationships with professors in smaller classes
  • Explore opportunities for undergraduate research projects in the UK
  • Learn about the US graduate school application process and reference requirements
  • Investigate the benefits of attending office hours and how to prepare for them
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for UK undergraduate students aspiring to attend graduate school in the US, particularly those seeking guidance on obtaining academic references and enhancing their application profiles.

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I'm currently an undergraduate student in the UK, and would like to go to grad school in America. I've seen a lot of people say that doing REUs is important to get into a good grad school, but undergraduate research is not very common in the UK, other than a project in the final year which really isn't research. Another thing is that all the schools I've looked at ask for three references, and I only know one professor (my tutor) who would be able to provide a meaningful reference. I have one and a half years left as an undergrad, so I will probably be able to develop a relationship with one more professor, but that would still give me only two referees. Any advice? Are there any former UK undergrads here studying in the US?
 
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Presumably you have to do a project/dissertation in your final year, so there's a second reference. Also, final year classes are in general smaller, so you will be able to get to know a lecturer of one of those classes better than a big first year class. Actively try and talk to the lecturer: go to office hours and discuss your work. That way, you can get a more meaningful reference off him.
 

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