* The specific degree: A UK Master's in Physics from a Russell Group university will likely be viewed very favorably in the US, but a less prestigious institution's undergraduate degree might require further explanation or evaluation.
* The specific US institution: Some US universities are very familiar with the UK system and will readily accept UK degrees, while others may require more documentation or a formal evaluation.
* The purpose of the comparison: Are you trying to get a job, apply for further education, or something else? The requirements will vary greatly depending on the context.
* The accreditation of both universities: Accreditation standards vary between countries. A well-regarded, accredited UK university will generally have a more straightforward comparison to a similarly accredited US university.
In short: While a UK degree is generally well-regarded in the US, it's not automatically considered equivalent. US institutions will assess the UK degree on a case-by-case basis. If you're applying for a job or further education in the US with a UK degree, you may need to have your qualifications evaluated by a credential evaluation service to ensure your degree is properly recognized. These services provide official assessments comparing your UK degree to the equivalent US standard.