By Peter Thomas

(Senior Academic Instructor at The Edge Learning Center)

Argumentative or persuasive essay writing is not just a useful writing skill but a necessary part of both the IGCSE and IB MYP curricula. For those not confident in essay-writing, it is important to have a clear approach to writing and organising your thoughts before you begin.

6 Steps to Planning an Effective Essay Response (5 Paragraphs)

STEP 1: Read the question or prompt to ensure that you know what you are writing about. Yes, it sounds simple, yet some students skip over the topic and begin writing straightaway. You need to ensure you truly understand the subject, the audience, and the tone with which you should write.

STEP 2: Identify arguments on both sides of the debate – put these into a T-chart or a similar graphic organiser and make sure you have at least 4 or 5 points on each side of the argument. You will need this to evaluate properly and assess the relative strength of arguments. Remember you are trying to convince or persuade in your essay! You should write the literal point and then write a justification or ‘warrant’ for each – not all points need to be ‘the best’ as you are planning at this stage.

STEP 3: Identify the strongest reasons from the T-Chart and then choose a side to argue for your own essay. You should aim to identify 3 points so that you have the basis for thesis construction. The selection should be based on the quality of each point relative to its justification. If it helps, use criteria: logical, evidence-based, difficult to argue against? You may use a spider diagram or plan out the evidence and support in greater detail to see how rigorous they are before choosing.

STEP 4: Create a thesis statement. Use the three points that you have identified as the strongest and form complete sentences for each one – these will be the reasons that you will argue for in the thesis. You may want to consider the order of points within the thesis and what logically goes first, but also which points are inherently stronger. Write out one to two sentences with those reasons in a parallel structure: ‘Students should read more books because it will improve their general literacy skills, increase their range of expressions and vocabulary and expand their subject knowledge’.

STEP 5: Now that you have a thesis, you will need a hook and background information. For the former, you should aim to create an enticing statement, a rhetorical question or an interesting fact to draw the reader to your essay. For the background, you should aim to write 3-4 sentences to contextualise the topic and the debate in greater detail and lead naturally to your own position – your thesis statement. This will form the crux of your opening paragraph.

STEP 6: Plan the points in greater detail. You can now return to the three reasons and figure out how you will argue the points. A traditional argumentative essay may use a PEE structure wherein ‘P’ is the main claim or point, ‘E’ is the evidence to support the main point, and ‘E’ is the explanation of that evidence and how it matches the point. You may wish to sketch out some of the structure to help you to write the essay more formally later. Now you are ready to put pen to paper and WRITE THE ESSAY!

Tips: 

• Do you notice how these stages come before the actual writing? This is why planning is so important!
• Remember to check spelling, grammar, and punctuation (SPAG). Courses such as GCSE provide marks-based incentives for correct language use.

If you are still uncertain how to plan an effective essay response, simply give us a ring or contact us today to schedule a lesson with Peter!

 

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By Gary Keung

(Admissions Consultant at The Edge Learning Center)

Pursuing a medical degree is a cherished dream for many aspiring healthcare professionals. However, due to the fierce competition, limited spots, and high entry requirements, not everyone can secure admission into a medical program. The good news is that there are alternative undergraduate degrees that can also pave the way for a successful career in the healthcare industry.

Biomedical Sciences:
A degree in Biomedical Sciences opens doors to various professions within the healthcare sector. This multidisciplinary field focuses on understanding human biology, diseases, and medical research. Entry requirements typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in Biology and Chemistry, and additional requirements that vary between universities.

Pharmacology:
A degree in Pharmacology equips students with knowledge about medications and their use in treating diseases. This field is crucial in drug development, the pharmaceutical industry, and clinical research. Entry requirements usually include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in Chemistry and at least one additional science subject.

Biochemistry:
Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry to study the chemical processes occurring within living organisms. This degree allows you to delve into the molecular aspects of diseases and develop skills in laboratory techniques. Typical entry requirements include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in Chemistry and Biology, with some universities also requiring Mathematics.

Nutrition and Dietetics:
The significance of nutrition in preventing and managing diseases has gained substantial recognition in recent years. A degree in nutrition and dietetics provides a solid understanding of human nutrition, which is particularly valuable in healthcare settings or working as a registered dietitian. This field can also venture into the realm of public health policy. Typical entry requirements often include A levels or equivalent subjects in Biology and Chemistry. Additionally, some universities may require applicants to have relevant work experience.

Nursing:
Pursuing a nursing degree can make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Nursing programs provide comprehensive training in healthcare, patient care, and critical thinking. Entry requirements typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in a Science-related subject, alongside specific numeracy and literacy skills assessments.

Psychology:
Psychology is a versatile degree that complements medical aspirations by focusing on understanding human behavior, mental processes, and promoting well-being. A degree in psychology can lead to careers in counseling and psychiatric research. Additionally, it can serve as a stepping stone towards clinical psychology or further specializations within mental health.

While pursuing a medical degree in the UK may be highly competitive, there are alternatives that give students a wider range of options to make a difference in the world. Remember, each university may have specific entry requirements, so it’s crucial to research thoroughly and seek expert counseling for tailored guidance that suits your situation.

Reference: 

https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/applying-medical-school/if-you-don%E2%80%99t-get-medical-schoolhttps://rise.articulate.com/share/WdUcmB1NfK7Kxyql2KL9cDKnIEcQyaVk#/lessons/QqoJ_XxEpwH-C8_0uT0K_m_ql3G6pvSB

For more guidance on how best to prepare for you or your child’s education plan, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting!

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By Avi Banerjee

(Maths & Physics Tutor at The Edge Learning Center)

What especially stands out about the IB Diploma is the constant level of research educators do to update the syllabus based on the feedback provided by teachers and undergraduate university providers. This has resulted in quite a few large changes to the Physics course, in line with the changes to the other science courses of Biology and Chemistry.

The IB Physics course has always been challenging and exciting for students. However, unlike many other international physics qualifications, within the IB Physics course, there is actually very little complex mathematics. Yet, what the course lacks in rigorous mathematics, it more than makes up for it when it comes to theory IB Physics, especially at Higher Level, is very broad in its scope – including both classical physics incorporating mechanics and thermal physics in addition to the “newer” physics like atomic & radioactive physics.

One important change to the course has been the insertion of more of these theoretical “new” physics components to the core, which were previously relegated to optional modules. This has been achieved by eliminating the additional modules students had to take for their Paper 3 exam and incorporating two of the more popular options, Relativity and Astrophysics, into the core syllabus. These dramatic changes could greatly affect students’ performance as these topics are very complex and require specific attention. In the case of relativity, 70% of the old options syllabus, and in the case of astrophysics, 50-60% of the old syllabus, have been adopted. These topics are particularly challenging because many of the elements would be completely new and foreign to most students.

A key benefit of this change will be the resulting uniformity of knowledge, skills, and experience of all IB Physics by ensuring all students learn the same thing. This sort of change was done the last time when the course got updated in 2014, with the erstwhile option on Particle Physics being incorporated into the core, and reducing the number of optional modules students took for their paper 3 exam from two to one. As a consequence of the previous exam structure, students could only take one option module, thus resulting in many students feeling disappointed that they didn’t get exposure to the other option modules.  Consequently, now students get the opportunity to study both these exciting topics! While some students will be disappointed that other interesting modules like medical physics and engineering physics will no longer be available, it must be noted that these areas of study can still be explored through the Internal Assessment component.

However, despite this obvious positive, it must be noted that these changes have come at a significant cost. These new additions were only made possible by the removal of sections on the previous syllabus, most notably on the different renewable/sustainable energy systems and the study of particle physics. There have been previous instances where components have been removed, for example Digital Physics after the 2014 updates, however, the removal of large sections within Particle Physics has been the most surprising. The study of subatomic particles within the standard model and employing Feynman diagrams to present quantum field theory processes in terms of particle interactions and exchange particles were particularly very popular topics.

Finally, whilst these changes are very interesting, it must be stressed to students that over 65% of the marks available within the exams will fall under the three main topics: mechanics, electricity & magnetism (including electromagnetism), and waves. Students must not lose focus on this reality, and thus ensure they give these core topics the appropriate attention.

If you are still uncertain how to prepare your IB Physics, simply give us a ring or contact us today to schedule a trial lesson with Avi!

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By The Edge Learning Center

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an educational organisation known for its unique, internationally recognized Diploma Programme. As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, the IB periodically revises its curriculum to ensure that it remains relevant and engaging for students worldwide. In this article, we will discuss the recent changes to the IB science subjects, with specific focus on content and exam style. We will provide a general overview of the modifications and then delve deeper into the changes within Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

General Overview 

The first assessments for the revised IB science subjects are scheduled for 2025, and these changes have been implemented to align with current research and best practices in the field of science education. The primary goals of the revisions are to foster deeper conceptual understanding, emphasise the connections between various scientific disciplines, and promote the development of scientific competencies that are applicable beyond the classroom.

One key change across all science subjects is the shift from a purely content-based approach to a focus on inquiry-based learning. The new curriculum encourages students to ask questions, design experiments, analyse data, and draw evidence-based conclusions. Additionally, the revised curriculum emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary thinking, encouraging students to recognize and appreciate the connections between different scientific disciplines. 

Change in Assessment 

External Assessment (80%)

While the current curriculum is composed of three external exams.  The new structure of the Science subjects will result in students taking only two external exams. 

• (36%) Paper 1: 1.5 hours for SL | 2 hours for HL
  • Paper 1A : multiple choice questions 
  • Paper 1B: will contain data analysis questions allowing the students to be assessed on some of the experimental skills and techniques 
• (44%) Paper 2: 1.5 hours for SL | 2.5 hours for HL

Another significant change is the removal of the option topics, which would be incorporated into either SL and HL syllabus accordingly. 

Internal Assessment (IA) (20%)

Internal assessment (IA) has undergone the most significant restructuring. The IA now places greater emphasis on the process of scientific investigation, rather than solely on the final product. Students are now allowed to form small groups . Unlike the individual projects, this modification aims to develop students’ abilities to plan, carry out, evaluate scientific research and communicate with peers with similar interests in mind.Students will continue to submit an individual report with a maximum word count of 3,000 words.The revised criteria will place a greater emphasis on higher-order thinking skills with 50% of the marks allocated for Conclusion and Evaluation. 

Physics

The revised Physics curriculum features several changes to both the content and exam style. The core material has been streamlined, with some topics being condensed or removed to reduce content overload and provide more time for inquiry-based learning. The new curriculum introduces a few novel topics, such as energy production and the environmental impact of energy sources, to ensure relevance and connection to real-world issues. 

Chemistry

The changes in the Chemistry curriculum also aim to reduce content overload and provide more opportunities for inquiry-based learning. The revised syllabus incorporates contemporary topics such as green chemistry, materials science, and the role of chemistry in addressing global challenges.

Instead of listing the 11 main topics, there are two overarching concepts: structure and reactivity. With only 6 main topics and a total of 22 subtopics, the new syllabus has incorporated some of the content from the current four options (materials, biochemistry, energy and medicinal chemistry). 

Biology 

The Biology curriculum has undergone significant revisions to foster a deeper understanding of the underlying biological concepts and processes. The new syllabus integrates topics such as bioinformatics, systems biology, and the role of biology in addressing global challenges, ensuring that the content is relevant and engaging for students. 

The curriculum is now “node” based and teachers have the freedom to, and are encouraged to teach based on their own organisations of the topics. In addition to the following table of topics, it is worth mentioning that the paper 2 of IB Biology is still consisting of data-based questions (section A) and extended response questions (section B).

If you are still uncertain how to prepare your IB Science, simply give us a ring or contact us today to schedule a trial lesson!

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By Gary Keung

(Admissions Consultant at The Edge Learning Center)

The rise of ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to simulate human-like conversation, has generated a lot of buzz in the education sector. Some experts predict that ChatGPT could replace traditional college education and make higher education obsolete. But does AI really pose a threat to higher education, or could it actually enhance our learning experiences?

According to a Forbes article, ChatGPT could potentially “disrupt the traditional university model” by providing personalized education to individual students. In theory, ChatGPT could adapt to student’s learning styles and interests, making the learning process more engaging and efficient. However, some educators argue that AI cannot fully replace the value of human interaction in the classroom. Students benefit from interacting with their peers and instructors, engaging in debates and discussions, and receiving feedback that AI cannot provide.

Moreover, while AI may excel at repetitive and routine tasks, it cannot replace key skills necessary for the workforce—skills such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. As the world becomes increasingly automated, these skills will become even more valuable, making a college education more important than ever.

In fact, some experts argue that the rise of AI calls for a more holistic and interdisciplinary approach to education. As a Hong Kong-based education consultant explains in an article from the South China Morning Post, educators should focus on teaching skills that cannot be replicated by AI, such as “interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, teamwork, and multitasking.” These skills are often taught in liberal arts colleges, which offer a broad and diverse curriculum and encourage students to explore different fields and ideas.

An article from Northeastern University echoes this sentiment, arguing that higher education must change to prepare students for an AI-driven world. The authors suggest that colleges should focus on teaching students how to “manage and curate large amounts of data,” how to “work collaboratively with intelligent machines,” and how to “use technology to augment creativity, rather than replace it.” By combining technical skills with humanistic and creative skills, students can become well-rounded and adaptable workers in any field.

It is important to note that the labor market is always changing, and the impact of AI on different industries and professions is still evolving. Here are some thoughts:

Majors that may stay competitive in the labor market post-graduation in the age of AI:

1. Computer Science and Engineering: These majors will likely continue to be in high demand as AI technology evolves and expands.
2. Data Science and Analytics: The ability to analyze and interpret data will always be valuable, particularly with the increasing amounts of data being generated by AI systems.
3. Business and Management: Graduates with a strong understanding of business and management principles will be in demand to help guide and implement AI technologies within organizations.
4. Psychology and Social Sciences: As AI becomes more prevalent in society, understanding human behavior and emotions will become increasingly important.

Jobs that may be at risk of being replaced by AI:

1. Administrative Support: Many administrative tasks are already being automated, making it less certain that related majors such as Office Administration will continue to be in demand.
2. Manufacturing and Assembly Line Work: It is likely that many jobs in this sector will be replaced by robots and automation.
3. Basic Accounting: As AI systems become better at processing and analyzing financial data, junior accounting roles may be at risk of being replaced.

In conclusion, while ChatGPT and similar AI systems may offer new opportunities and challenges for education, they cannot fully replace the value of a college education. Students need the interpersonal skills, critical thinking ability, and creativity that only a liberal arts education can provide. As we continue to adapt to an AI-driven world, educators should focus on teaching students the skills needed to work collaboratively with intelligent machines and to harness technology in creative and innovative ways.

 

Reference: 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonwingard/2023/01/10/chatgpt-a-threat-to-higher-education/?sh=25cafa4c1e76

https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/news/hong-kong/article/3213126/chatgpt-future-learning-educators-students-discuss-how-schools-can-adapt-potential-ai-driven-world

https://news.northeastern.edu/2018/01/31/higher-education-must-change-to-prepare-americans-for-artificial-intelligence-revolution/

For more guidance on how best to prepare for you or your child’s education plan, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting, and we will be happy to adapt and grow with you in this unprecedent transition period! 

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By David Tian

(Admissions Consultant at The Edge Learning Center)

The number of college students majoring in or who intend to major in computer science has skyrocketed in the past, more than doubling since 2013. Indeed, the major has become so popular that some of the top universities for computer science – including the University of Michigan, UIUC, and UT Austin – will not even allow students to switch into the major if they weren’t accepted for it right from their freshman year. 

With the lure of high-paying jobs, the possibility of remote work (you do not have to be in an office to hammer out lines of code on your computer), and a flexible work-life balance, it is little wonder that students are drawn to the major in droves, and colleges are having a hard time keeping up with demand.

As recently as just a decade ago, having demonstrated a passion for computer science and programming during high school was likely enough to give an applicant a leg up in the application process. Nowadays, students with extensive experience in programming and coding are common, and it will take a lot more to stand out than ever before. 

You might be wondering what we can do to help you or your child create a strong application for the computer science major at various universities. 

Before getting started, I would like to clear up a common misconception that non-CS majors seem to have about the field: It does not take a genius to learn computer science fundamentals. So long as you have the determination and grit, there really is nothing in a standard computer science undergraduate curriculum that you cannot learn. That said, though it is not as wildly difficult as some perceive it to be, it is not a cakewalk either, and you should expect to work extremely hard to succeed.

First, try out the field of computer science for yourself to see if you even enjoy it before committing to it. Nowadays, there are no shortage of ways for students to learn computer science at the university level before setting foot on campus, including various online platforms. My personal favorite is Coursera, which offers an extremely popular specialization called Python for Everybody, offered in partnership with the University of Michigan. There are five courses in the specialization, which in their totality cover approximately the same amount of material as an introductory course in college for those with no background in Python whatsoever. You can even get each course for free by clicking “Financial Aid Available” on each course’s webpage. The courses are extremely well taught and are what I used to start learning computer science. Bonus: you can earn certificates that you can put on your eventual application to college! That’s exactly what I did for my application for graduate school, and I am now getting a master’s in computer science from an Ivy League university.

Next, if you already have the rudiments of programming down and are certain you want to go into it as a career, keep practicing it regularly, and look beyond “just coding.” Developers don’t just make programs for no reason; they make programs to solve problems. To truly stand out in your application to universities, it would benefit you to have an end-goal in mind for your coding. As an example of what that looks like, check out this article from the New York Times, which mentions a student from Mongolia who wanted to use technology to develop a garage siren system to warn children playing in apartment driveways of incoming cars. Another example would be a student who uses his or her knowledge of computing and engineering to build a robotic hand that can help interpret spoken language for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Certainly, both of these examples are very unusual achievements (and admittedly, are more computer engineering than pure computer science) and well above the average applicant, but with competition to top universities as stiff as it is these days, you really will have to go that extra mile to stand out.

Finally, look beyond the Ivy League and other universities whose brands are household names. Many high-achieving students who work with The Edge consultants vye for the usual suspects – Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Cornell, etc. But the beauty of computer science is that in general, where you go matters less than what you are able to do. The field of software development is not like other subjects, in which brand name matters that much. In particular, there are many excellent public universities that offer top-notch programs in computer science. Georgia Tech is a particularly good one, as are Purdue University, University of Maryland – College Park, and Virginia Tech. Still, top universities are renowned for a reason, and they may offer better facilities and a more vibrant peer group to study with.

Overall, if you are looking for a rewarding and lucrative future career while having the opportunity to impact thousands if not millions of lives, computer science might just be the major for you.

For more guidance on how best to prepare for these programs, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting with David! 

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By David Tian

(Admissions Consultant at The Edge Learning Center)

Software and technology pervades nearly every aspect of modern life, from instant messaging services to navigation apps. Thus, not only are developers and software engineers extremely well compensated, but their work has the potential to scale. What that means is that, unlike many other services in which you are only able to help as many people as you have hours in a workday, software has the potential to reach millions of people who need a particular service, at any time of day, at any location. 

Perhaps you now hope to switch to the software field but have little to no background in computer science. Fear not – even if you didn’t major in computer science as an undergraduate student, it is not too late. Indeed, with the field of computer science growing as rapidly as it has the past decade or so, now is the perfect time to make the switch. There are countless opportunities for students to study computer science both online and in person, regardless of whether you have a background or not.

Though there are many options, including bootcamps and other training programs, in this post, I will speak primarily about academic programs at universities. 

Let’s get started! 

First and foremost, software development is a field that cares primarily about what your skills are and what you can do, rather than your credentials. Hence, when looking for a program, you should look beyond the name of the university and instead look closely at its curriculum and other features to ascertain whether it is the right program for you or not. Nevertheless, although your skills and knowledge are by far the number one priority, all others being equal, a well-known university program could help you stand out in an increasingly competitive field, particularly at the beginning. 

Although it would be nice to go back to your undergrad days and change your major, that is not possible, and it may not be feasible for you to go back to university and get an entirely new bachelor’s degree in computer science. Hence, here are some master’s programs that are specifically catered to those who do not currently have a background in computer science. 

Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT), University of Pennsylvania

This program has been around for quite some time now, and as of a few years ago, began offering an online version, which students can do on a part-time basis. The online version offers the same degree as the in-person one, but at a much lower cost. Being an Ivy League university, though, the program is extremely competitive in terms of admission, and you should expect to work extremely hard if you are fortunate enough to be admitted. Still, it is a very well-known program, and if you graduate from it, you will likely have little difficulty finding gainful employment in the field.

Master of Software Development (MSD), University of Utah 

University of Utah offers an MSD program that is catered toward those without a background in computing. It is only available in person, however. The University of Utah is a solid university with high research output, and a degree from there in software development will most definitely be taken seriously by potential employers.

Master of Science in Computer Science – Engineers and Scientists (MSCS), University of Southern California 

USC is a well-known university that has a solid national profile in the United States. It also offers an MSCS program for those looking to break into the field of software. However, one thing to keep in mind about this program is that it is specifically designed for those with a STEM background, i.e. people who majored in some sort of engineering or engineering-adjacent science field.

Masters Program in Computer Science (MPCS), University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is among the most prestigious universities in the entire world. If you want to switch to the computer science field, and you are up for a real challenge, then this program may just be the right one for you. Note as well that the University of Chicago operates on quarters, rather than semesters.

There are many more options available, both online and offline, but hopefully the four above give you an idea of the wide array of possibilities out there. 

For more guidance on how best to prepare for these programs, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting with David, and we will be happy to help you make this transition in your career. 

---

About The Edge

Established in 2008, The Edge Learning Center has grown into a premier one-stop provider of educational services for Grade 7 through Grade 12, targeting students who intend to pursue overseas education. Our three departments – Academic Tutoring, Test Preparation, and Admissions Consulting – offer a broad range of educational services spanning from SAT and IB Test Prep to colleges and boarding schools application counseling. The Edge Learning Center operates in multiple regions including Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam.

By  The Edge Learning Center

Applicants to universities, especially in the USA, may sometimes encounter the term “Liberal Arts College” (LACs) in reference to certain schools. Our previous blog post “Is a Liberal Arts College education right for you?” can give you the ideas about the LACs, the pros and cons and which type of students may consider this option. Our US Liberal Arts College Rankings Table will help you by showing you the top US Liberal Arts College ranked by U.S. News Best National Liberal Arts College Rankings. Read on.

2023 US Liberal Arts College Rankings

Liberal Arts College	U.S. News - LAC Rankings
Williams College	1
Amherst College	2
Pomona College	3
Swarthmore College	4
Wellesley College	5
Bowdoin College	6
Carleton College	6
United States Naval Academy	6
Claremont McKenna College	9
United States Military Academy at West Point	9
Middlebury College	11
Washington and Lee University	11
Smith College	13
Vassar College	13
Davidson College	15
Grinnell College	15
Hamilton College	15
Barnard College	18
Colgate University	18
Haverford College	18
United States Air Force Academy	18
University of Richmond	18
Wesleyan University	18
Colby College	24
Bates College	25
Berea College	26
Colorado College	27
Macalester College	27
Harvey Mudd College	29
Soka University of America	29

Sources:

• U.S. News Best National Liberal Arts College Rankings
• Niche Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America

If you are still uncertain how to apply for a right college for you/your child, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting with one of our admissions consultants! 

---

About The Edge

The Edge Learning Center is Hong Kong’s premier Test Preparation, Academic Tutoring, and Admissions Consulting services provider. Founded in 2008, The Edge has helped thousands of students improve their ACT and SAT scores as well as their IB and AP grades. The AC team has just finished off another successful period in which students gained acceptance to schools such as Harvard, Columbia, UChicago, and more! Check out our latest Admissions Results!

By  The Edge Learning Center

Knowing how best to choose your future university can be tough. Our UK University Rankings Table can help you by showing you the top UK universities ranked by Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide and QS World University Rankings. Let’s have a look at the table and get some ideas about the options!

2023 UK University Rankings

University	Times & Sunday Times - UK Rankings	QS - UK Rankings
University of Oxford	1	2
University of St Andrews	2	17
University of Cambridge	3	1
London School of Economics and Political Science - LSE	4	8
Imperial College London	5	3
Durham University	6	15
University College London- UCL	7	4
University of Bath	8	25
University of Warwick	9	10
University of Edinburgh	10	5
Loughborough University	11	31
Lancaster University	12	21
University of Exeter	13	23
University of Glasgow	14	12
University of Bristol	15	9
University of Southampton	16	11
University of York	17	22
University of Strathclyde	18	35
University of Aberdeen	19	27
University of Birmingham	20	14
University of Sheffield	20	16
University of Surrey	22	34
University of Leeds	23	13
University of Manchester	24	6
Cardiff University	25	24
King's College London - KCL	26	7
University of East Anglia	27	36
Queen's University of Belfast	28	29
Royal Holloway, University of London	29	41
University of Nottingham	30	18
University of Reading	30	28

Sources:

• Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide
• QS World University Rankings

If you are still uncertain how to apply for a right college for you/your child, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting with one of our admissions consultants! 

---

About The Edge

The Edge Learning Center is Hong Kong’s premier Test Preparation, Academic Tutoring, and Admissions Consulting services provider. Founded in 2008, The Edge has helped thousands of students improve their ACT and SAT scores as well as their IB and AP grades. The AC team has just finished off another successful period in which students gained acceptance to schools such as Harvard, Columbia, UChicago, and more! Check out our latest Admissions Results!

By  The Edge Learning Center

 

With US university application season quickly approaching, it’s the right time for parents and students to start putting together the list of schools to which they plan to apply. Let us share the latest US university rankings and have a glance at the options!

2023 US University Rankings

University	US News Ranking	QS Ranking	Acceptance Rate
Princeton University	1	7	4%
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	2	1	4%
Harvard University	3	3	4%
Stanford University	3	2	4%
Yale University	3	8	5%
University of Chicago	6	5	6%
Johns Hopkins University	7	11	8%
University of Pennsylvania	7	6	6%
California Institute of Technology	9	4	4%
Duke University	10	17	6%
Northwestern University	10	14	7%
Dartmouth College	12	46	6%
Brown University	13	20	6%
Vanderbilt University	13	45	7%
Rice University	15	27	9%
Washington University in St. Louis	15	31	13%
Cornell University	17	9	9%
Columbia University	18	10	6%
University of Notre Dame	18	49	15%
University of California-Berkeley	20	13	15%
University of California-Los Angeles	20	16	11%
Carnegie Mellon University	22	18	14%
Emory University	22	37	13%
Georgetown University	22	55	12%
New York University	25	15	13%
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor	25	12	20%
University of Southern California	25	33	13%
University of Virginia	25	51	21%
University of Florida	29	44	30%
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	29	28	19%
Wake Forest University	29	74	25%
Tufts University	32	57	11%
University of California, Santa Barbara	32	36	29%
University of California, Irvine	34	48	29%
University of California-San Diego	34	19	34%
Boston College	36	91	19%
University of Rochester	36	35	41%
University of California-Davis	38	28	49%
University of Texas-Austin	38	21	29%
University of Wisconsin-Madison	38	23	60%
Boston University	41	30	19%
University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign	41	24	60%
William & Mary	41	-	37%
Brandeis University	44	83	39%
Case Western Reserve University	44	41	30%
Georgia Institute of Technology	44	25	18%
Northeastern University	44	68	18%
Tulane University	44	81	10%
Ohio State University-Columbus	49	34	57%
University of Georgia	49	95	40%
Lehigh University	51	94	46%
Purdue University-West Lafayette	51	32	69%
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute	51	78	53%
Villanova University	51	-	25%
Florida State University	55	87	37%
Pepperdine University	55	-	53%
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey-New Brunswick	55	54	68%
Santa Clara University	55	-	54%
University of Maryland, College Park	55	39	52%
University of Miami	55	56	28%
University of Washington	55	22	53%
George Washington University	62	63	50%
Syracuse University	62	-	59%
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities	62	43	73%
University of Pittsburgh	62	42	67%
Virginia Tech	62	64	56%
Texas A&M University	67	39	64%
University of Connecticut	67	62	56%
University of Massachusetts-Amherst	67	51	66%
Worcester Polytechnic Institute	67	-	60%
Yeshiva University	67	50	62%
American University	72	-	64%
Fordham University	72	-	58%
Indiana University-Bloomington (印第安纳大学布鲁明顿分校)	72	61	85%
North Carolina State University	72	-	47%
Southern Methodist University	72	-	53%
Baylor University	77	-	57%
Clemson University	77	-	49%
Loyola Marymount University	77	-	46%
Michigan State University	77	38	83%
Pennsylvania State University-University Park	77	26	58%
Stony Brook University-SUNY	77	71	48%
Binghamton University--SUNY	83	-	44%
Gonzaga University	83	-	76%
Marquette University	83	-	86%
Stevens Institute of Technology	83	-	53%
University of California-Santa Cruz	83	66	59%
University of Iowa	83	-	86%
Brigham Young University--Provo	89	-	59%
Colorado School of Mines	89	84	57%
Elon University	89	-	78%
Howard University	89	-	35%
Texas Christian University	89	-	54%
University at Buffalo--SUNY	89	72	70%
University of California, Riverside	89	77	66%
University of Delaware	89	92	70%
Auburn University	97	-	71%
Clark University	97	-	48%
New Jersey Institute of Technology	97	-	69%
University of California, Merced	97	-	87%
University of Colorado-Boulder	97	59	80%
University of Illinois--Chicago	97	59	79%
University of San Diego	97	-	53%
University of South Florida	97	95	49%

Sources:

• U.S. News Best National University Rankings
• QS World University Rankings

If you are still uncertain how to apply for a right college for you/your child, simply give us a ring or contact us today to book an initial meeting with one of our admissions consultants! 

---

About The Edge

The Edge Learning Center is Hong Kong’s premier Test Preparation, Academic Tutoring, and Admissions Consulting services provider. Founded in 2008, The Edge has helped thousands of students improve their ACT and SAT scores as well as their IB and AP grades. The AC team has just finished off another successful period in which students gained acceptance to schools such as Harvard, Columbia, UChicago, and more! Check out our latest Admissions Results!