Hi I'm Joshua and I'm from Northern Ireland , I'm a part of cohort 5 of the programme and as of right now I'm waiting to find out my admissions decision from my early university choice!
I can only really echo what the other two have said in this forum. In my opinion even if you're remotely interested in studying in America for 4 years you've got to give it a shot because the reward is truly life changing!
Grades wise you've got to be one of the best in your year academically, from my memory you need 8 A's at GCSE level, but if you're just short you can still apply! I can assure you that the Sutton Trust team will look at every part of your application (not just your grades), so it's important to take your time to do every section of the application to the best of your ability.
Also nobody is asking for you to decide right now whether studying in America is the right option for you, that's what the programme is for! But I can assure you that if you do get onto the programme and decide to apply to the states then you will know all the ins and outs of the US admissions process through several exciting visits to London and a action packed week across the pond.
The fact that you even know about the programme right now and are considering applying gives you a great head start on other applicants, so my advice would be to take the bull by the horns and get started. Also don't underestimate the power of the video interview! This is a chance for you to bring your application to life and show whoever is reading your application who you are and how much the programme excites you!
I wish everyone who applies the best of luck 🍀 and if you have any questions be sure to use this forum or if you guys want you could email me at: