Abertay University Scotland

Overview

Abertay University is a public university located in the heart of Dundee, UK. Its roots date back to 1888, when the Dundee Technical Institute was established, and the institution gained university status in 1994. Today, Abertay is recognised as a modern, career-focused university with particular strengths in video games, computing, cybersecurity, business, engineering, psychology, sport and applied sciences.

For international students planning to study in UK, Abertay offers a compact city-centre campus and an industry-oriented approach to education. Many undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Abertay University incorporate practical projects, industry engagement and opportunities to gain real-world experience. The university is particularly well known for video games education and its position among the UK’s technology-focused universities.

Students considering a Bachelor’s or Master’s in UK can explore courses spanning computing, games, cybersecurity, business, law, engineering, biomedical science, food science, psychology and sport. Abertay University Dundee, UK also provides international student guidance covering visas, accommodation, academic support and settling into life in the UK.

Why Study at Abertay University in UK?

Students planning to study at Abertay University in UK can benefit from its specialist academic strengths, practical teaching model and central Dundee location.

Roots dating back to 1888, with a long history of technical and career-oriented education.
Recognised as one of the UK’s leading technology universities, particularly for video games education.
Located in central Dundee, giving students convenient access to city amenities.
Offers courses in areas including games, computing, cybersecurity, business, engineering, psychology, sport and biomedical sciences.
International scholarships can provide awards of up to £7,000 per year for eligible students.
Career guidance is available to students and for up to three years after graduation.
Abertay’s wider alumni network includes more than 55,000 graduates worldwide.

Highlights

Abertay combines the atmosphere of a relatively compact university with specialist strengths in technology and applied education. These highlights can help international students comparing universities to study in UK.

Acceptance Rate: 80%
International Students: 1,000 plus from 90+ countries
Top Areas: Gaming, Cybersecurity, Computing, Business & Sports Science
Employability Rate: 95 percent within six months
Global Reputation: World leader in video game education
Teaching Model: Practical, research-informed, industry-connected

Abertay University Scotland Rankings

Abertay University rankings are particularly notable in UK league tables for student experience, teaching, value added and specialist subjects. Students should note that Abertay’s strongest recognition is often found in UK national and subject-level rankings rather than headline global league-table positions.

Ranking Agency	Rank
QS World University 2027	162 in Europe University Rankings – Northern Europe
Complete University Guide (CUG) 2027	18 in UK

Abertay University Scotland Intakes

The Abertay University intakes are offered at different points throughout the year, with September being the main entry period. Students should check their chosen course before applying, as intake availability can vary by program.

September Intake: This is the main intake at Abertay University and offers the widest selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. International students can explore courses in areas such as computing, cybersecurity, games, business, engineering, psychology, sport, and applied sciences.
January Intake: January provides another entry option for selected programs, particularly at the postgraduate level. Course availability is more limited compared with the September intake.
Other Intakes: Selected Abertay University courses may also begin in February, June, or November. These start dates are program-specific and are not available across all undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

How to Apply to Abertay University

Students searching for how to apply to Abertay University should first choose their course and check its country-specific academic and English requirements. Undergraduate applicants may apply through UCAS, while relevant direct applications are handled through Abertay’s application system. After an offer is accepted, international students must complete the required conditions and CAS process before applying for their UK student visa.

Abertay University Scotland Courses

Abertay offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees with a strong emphasis on applied learning and employability. Top courses at Abertay University are particularly associated with games, computing and cybersecurity, although the university also teaches business, law, engineering, psychology, sport, health and science subjects.

Some Popular programs at Abertay University for international students include:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
MSc Biomedical Sciences	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£18,950
MSc Civil Engineering	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£18,950
MSc Computer Games Technology	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£19,950
MSc Cyber Law and Ethics	1 Year	£18,950
MSc Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£19,950
MSc Geotechnical Engineering	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£18,950
MSc Sports Therapy	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£18,950

Note: Fees can differ by course and academic year. Students should check the individual program page before budgeting. Abertay also offers new international students a fee guarantee under which the applicable net tuition fee is maintained for the duration of the course, subject to the university’s terms.

Cost of Studying at Abertay University Scotland

The cost of studying at Abertay University includes tuition as well as accommodation, food, transport, study materials, visa-related expenses and personal spending. Dundee can offer a different cost profile from larger UK cities, but actual expenses depend heavily on accommodation choice and lifestyle.

Expense Type	Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees	£13,750 – £18,000 per year
PG Tuition Fees	£15,000 – £20,000 per year
Accommodation	£500 – £800 per month
Food	£150 – £250 per month
Travel	£40 – £80 per month
General Expenses	£100 – £200 per month

When calculating the wider cost of education in UK, international students should distinguish between their real monthly budget and the minimum amount required for visa purposes. Under current UK student visa financial rules, students studying outside London generally need to demonstrate £1,171 per month for up to nine months, in addition to applicable course fees, unless an exemption applies.

Abertay University Scotland Scholarships

Abertay University scholarships can help reduce tuition expenses for eligible overseas students. The university offers several international awards based on academic achievement, personal accomplishments and other eligibility conditions.

Students searching for a scholarship to study in UK can consider the following scholarships at Abertay University for international students:

Scholarship	Value	Details
Abertay International Scholarship	£3,000 per year, for up to a maximum of four years	Awarded to students pursuing UG & PG degree at university
Abertay Partner Excellence Scholarship	£5,000 per year	Awarded to students pursuing UG degree at university
Abertay Postgraduate Taught UK Scholarship	£1,000	Awarded to students pursuing PG degree at university

Abertay University Scotland Admission

Abertay University admissions requirements vary according to course, study level and the applicant’s previous education system. International applicants should check both their course page and Abertay’s country-specific guidance before submitting an application.

The Admission requirements for Abertay University generally include academic qualifications appropriate to the selected degree, proof of English proficiency and supporting documents.

Masters

International students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55% or its equivalent for admission to a Master’s in UK.

Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL (iBT) – 78
IELTS – 6.0
Cambridge C1/C2 – 169
PTE – 59
Duolingo – 105

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts, personal statement, reference, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

International students must have a high school diploma with a minimum of 60% or its equivalent for admission to a Bachelor’s in UK.

Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL (iBT) – 78
IELTS – 6.0
Cambridge C1/C2 – 169
PTE – 59
Duolingo – 105

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts, personal statement, reference, portfolio, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at Abertay University Scotland

Housing at Abertay University is available through student accommodation providers partnered with the university as well as the wider private rental market in Dundee. International students can begin arranging accommodation after accepting their university offer.

On-Campus Housing: College dormitories offer furnished room, community kitchen, social space, high-speed Internet, laundry and 24-hour security. The halls make people feel part of the community and hence new international students find it easy to adapt to the life in Scotland.
Off-Campus Housing: In Dundee students have the option of private rentals, shared apartments or studio flats. Abertay assists students in verifying lists, neighbourhood suggestions, budgeting and tenancy advice.

Student life at Abertay University combines a close-knit campus environment with Dundee’s cultural, digital and creative industries. The city-centre setting can be particularly convenient for international students adjusting to living independently in UK.

Abertay University Scotland Placements

Abertay’s practical approach to learning helps students build workplace skills through industry projects, placements, networking opportunities, and career-focused academic experiences.

Career support at Abertay University is available through the Careers Service, which assists students with career planning, CV and application development, interview preparation, job searches, internships, placements, and work experience. Graduates can continue accessing career support for up to three years after completing their studies.

The Alumni network at Abertay University connects more than 55,000 graduates worldwide. This international community gives graduates opportunities to maintain professional connections and stay engaged with the university after completing their degree.

Top recruiters include:

Rockstar Games
Ninja Kiwi
Outplay Entertainment
BBC Scotland
Cisco
PwC
NHS Scotland
Scottish Government Digital Services
Data & Cybersecurity Firms
Creative & Gaming Studios Across Dundee

Students Essential Services

Abertay University Scotland provides both non-academic and academic assistance to international students in the form of a personalised way of assisting them to adapt to the university. Advisors help in planning courses, university expectations, cultural adaptation and personal wellbeing.

Student Success Centre: The centre offers tutoring, academic-writing, project, study skills training, and exam preparation. Students are given customized measures to enhance school performance at any level.
Careers & Internships: Career services involve curriculum vitae construction, interview training, internship placement, networking activities and job universals. Students who have taken courses in pursuit of studying in the UK are well supported basing on their career objectives.
Counselling & Wellbeing: One can have confidential counselling, wellbeing workshops, mental health resources and resilience building programs to keep students in balance and emotionally healthy.
Health & Safety: They give counseling, as to the NHS system, GP registration, insurance, emergency procedures, and safety on campus and in Dundee.
Clubs & Recreation: Abertay has game-related, arts, sports, business, esports, culture, and technology clubs. These groups assist students to form friendships, leadership and participation in the community.
Learning Resources: Modern libraries, game laboratories, cybersecurity laboratories, studios, computer suites, and learning joints are accessible to students. Academic and research development is facilitated by the faculty members.
Visa & Housing Assistance: The university assists students in issuing CAS, visa, residence permit, and housing, making sure that they move on stress-free basis.
Events & Cultural Activities: The student life is enhanced by workshops, international festivals, academic conferences, game jams, exhibitions, and networking events.

Location of Abertay University Scotland, UK

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Abertay University a good choice for international students?

Abertay can be a strong option for students interested in career-focused courses, particularly games, computing, cybersecurity and other applied disciplines. It was named the top Scottish modern university in the Guardian University Guide 2026 and has a campus community representing more than 60 nationalities.

Is English accepted at the Abertay University Scotland?

Abertay University Scotland accepts English program with specific minimum requirements.

Are scholarships available for international students?

Yes. Abertay University scholarships for international students include the Abertay International Scholarship, Partner Excellence Scholarship and more. Depending on eligibility, selected awards can provide up to £7,000 per year.

Does Abertay University provide student accommodation?

Abertay works with private student accommodation providers that reserve rooms for university students. International students can usually arrange accommodation after accepting their offer, with booking typically opening in spring.

What is student life at Abertay University like?

Abertay has a compact city-centre setting in Dundee. Students can participate in clubs and university activities while having easy access to shops, entertainment, cultural attractions and other city amenities.

Does Abertay University offer academic and international student support?

Yes. Its Student Advisory Service includes dedicated international support covering money and funding, visa and immigration enquiries, accommodation, academic assistance and general guidance on living in the UK.

Is public transport easily accessible from Abertay University?

The university is based in central Dundee, making local buses and Dundee’s wider transport connections accessible from the campus area. Students living centrally may also be able to walk between accommodation, campus and many everyday amenities.

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