University of St Andrews

Overview

The University of St Andrews, UK, founded in 1413, is the oldest university in Scotland and one of the most prestigious in the world. Located in the picturesque coastal town of St Andrews, the university is renowned for its academic excellence, strong research culture, and historic traditions.

Studying at University of St Andrews in UK means you are part of a world renowned organization that is both traditional and innovative. The university has a reputation for excellence in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, attracting students and faculty from around the world.

With small class sizes, world-leading academics, and a vibrant international community, the undergraduate programs at University of St Andrews and postgraduate programs provide an exceptional foundation for personal and professional success.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 12%

Total International Students: 7,500+ (from 135+ countries)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Placement Percentage: 96%

University of St Andrews Rankings

The University of St Andrews ranking demonstrates its worldwide status of academic excellence and student achievement. This university is frequently acclaimed on the basis of excellent teaching, a global research, and graduate performance.

Its consistent performance in international league tables makes it a premier choice for students aiming to study in UK at a globally recognized institution.

Here are the updated University of St Andrews rankings across various agencies:

Ranking Agency	Rank
U.S. News & World Report	403 in Best Global Universities 157 in Best Global Universities in Europe 34 in Best Global Universities in the United Kingdom
QS World University	113 in Top Global Universities
Times Higher Education (THE) World University	=185 in World University Ranking 35 for Arts & Humanities 94 for Psychology 101 – 125 for Life Sciences

University of St Andrews Intakes

The University of St Andrews intakes follow the standard UK academic calendar, providing multiple entry options for students planning to study at University of St Andrews in UK.

Understanding the University of St Andrews application deadlines is crucial, as popular courses tend to fill quickly due to the university’s competitive nature.

September Intake: The primary intake for all undergraduate programs and covering the majority of postgraduate programs at University of St Andrew, , allowing students to engage in academic induction, cultural orientation, and networking events from day one.
January Intake: The secondary intake is offered for select Master’s in UK programs such as Management, Finance, and Data Science. It offers flexibility for international applicants who wish to start their studies mid-year.

University of St Andrews Courses

The popular programs at University of St Andrews are designed to help students develop analytical, creative, and leadership skills that align with global industry standards.

Whether you’re pursuing a Bachelor’s in UK at St Andrews or advancing your studies through one of its renowned postgraduate programs, the university’s programs combine world-class teaching with a strong focus on research and critical thinking.

Some of the top courses at University of St Andrews are as follows:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
MSc Accounting and Finance	1 Year	£31,450
MSc Artificial Intelligence	1 Year	£31,450
MSc Environmental Science	1 Year	£31,450
MSc International Business	1 Year	£31,450
MPP Master of Public Policy	1 Year	£32,500
MSc Software Engineering	1 Year	£31,450
MLitt Art History	1 Year	£27,200

Cost of Studying at University of St Andrews

The cost of studying at the University of St Andrews is moderate compared to major UK cities, with affordable living in a small yet vibrant student town.

The cost of education in UK for St Andrews students offers excellent value due to the university’s reputation, teaching quality, and career prospects.

Here is an overview of the estimated expenses for international students at the University of St Andrews:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees	£26,000 – £30,000/year
PG Tuition Fees	£27,000 – £32,000/year
Accommodation	£7,000 – £9,500/year
Food	£250 – £350/month
Travel	£60 – £100/month
General Expenses	£100 – £200/month

University of St Andrews Scholarships

The scholarships at University of St Andrews for international students support academic excellence and financial need. Students can apply for university-funded, external, and government-based scholarships.

Through a wide range of scholarships, the university recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement.

Some of the top University of St Andrews scholarships are tabulated below:

Scholarship	Value	Details
International Excellence Scholarship	£5,000	Awarded to international students pursuing UG program at university
Chevening Scholarships	Fully funded	UK government-funded PG scholarships
GREAT Scholarships	£10,000	Awarded to international students

University of St Andrews Admission

The admission requirements for University of St Andrews are highly competitive, reflecting its elite academic status.

To learn how to apply to University of St Andrews, students can use the UCAS portal for undergraduate courses and the university’s direct online portal for postgraduate applications.

The admission requirements are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

To be admitted into a Master’s in UK, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 60% or equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 81 – 91
IELTS – 6.5 – 7.0
PTE – 70 – 79
Cambridge C1/C2 – 176 – 185

Additional Requirements:

You are also required to submit academic transcripts, personal statement, writing sample, academic references, and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

For admission to Bachelor’s program, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 85% or above.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 81 – 100
IELTS – 6.5 – 7.5
PTE – 70 – 76
Cambridge C1/C2 – 176 – 191

Additional Requirements:

You also need to provide academic transcripts, personal statement, academic references, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at University of St Andrews

The housing at the University of St Andrews is a combination of historicity and contemporary amenities.

On-campus and off-campus housing options are very numerous and provide students with comfort, convenience, and a sense of belonging.

On-Campus: St Andrews provides 10 residence halls, including iconic options like St Regulus Hall, Agnes Blackadder Hall, and David Russell Apartments. Most are within walking distance of lecture buildings, libraries, and the beach, offering ensuite or shared facilities, catering choices, and 24/7 support.
Off-Campus: Many students opt for private rentals in the town center or nearby areas such as Kinnessburn and Abbey Walk. These offer independence and proximity to cafes, local shops, and cultural spots, perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in everyday life while studying at the University of St Andrews in UK.

University of St Andrews Placements

The University of St Andrews placement rate is among the highest in the UK, with over 96% of graduates employed or in further study within six months.

The career support at University of St Andrews also includes exclusive access to career fairs, employer meetups, and mentorship from the alumni network at University of St Andrews, which spans over 70,000 professionals worldwide. Graduates are highly sought after across industries for their analytical skills, global perspective, and research-driven mindset.

Some of the top recruiters at University of St Andrews are:

Deloitte
PwC
KPMG
Barclays
Accenture
IBM
Morgan Stanley
Unilever
HSBC
BBC
Scottish Government
Procter & Gamble (P&G)
EY (Ernst & Young)
Amazon
BAE Systems

Student Essential Services

The student life at University of St Andrews is vibrant and community-driven, offering world-class academic support, clubs, and cultural diversity.

The University of St Andrews offers international student support, including visa advice, arrival orientation, and ongoing well-being services.

Student Wellbeing & Counselling: The university offers counselling services, confidential sessions, mindfulness workshops, and peer mentoring to help students manage stress and maintain a healthy balance between academic and personal life.
IT & Learning Support: Students benefit from robust digital infrastructure, with 24/7 access to online learning tools, campus-wide Wi-Fi, and digital libraries. The IT & Learning Support team assists with academic software, e-learning platforms, and study skills development.
Clubs & Societies: The university offers over 140 student-led societies and more than 50 sports clubs. From debate and theatre to marine conservation and photography, there is everything for every student.
Career & Skills Development Centre: The university’s Career Centre organizes career fairs, networking events, and one-on-one coaching sessions throughout the year.

Location of University of St Andrews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the University of St Andrews located and what is the town like?

The University of St Andrews is located in the small coastal town of St Andrews, Fife, Scotland. The town is safe, walkable, and rich in history, offering a welcoming environment with sandy beaches, charming cafes, and a close-knit student community.

Are there part-time job opportunities for international students?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. The university’s career portal and local businesses offer numerous part-time roles, especially in hospitality and retail.

Can I apply for a UK student visa before receiving an offer?

You can only apply for a UK Student Visa after receiving an unconditional offer and a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from the university. This document confirms your admission and eligibility for visa processing.

CAS is issued after accepting your official offer
Required for submitting the Student Visa application
Start the visa process at least 3 months before your course begins

What health services are available on campus at University of St Andrews?

The university offers access to a dedicated health centre with GP services, counselling, and mental health support. Students also register with a local doctor upon arrival for general medical care.

What are the transportation options within and around St Andrews?

The town is compact and walkable. For longer trips, regular bus services connect St Andrews to Edinburgh, Dundee, and other Scottish cities, while train connections are accessible via Leuchars Station (15 minutes away).

Does the University offer English language support for international students?

Yes, the University of St Andrews provides in-sessional and pre-sessional English language courses through its English Language Teaching Centre. These classes help students improve academic writing, presentation, and communication skills.

How can I get involved in student life outside academics at University of St Andrews?

Students can join over 140 societies and 50 sports clubs, covering a wide range of interests, from politics to photography. The Students’ Association organizes events year-round, including the iconic May Ball and St Andrews Charity Fashion Show.

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