University of St Andrews

Overview

The University of St Andrews, founded in 1413, is the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world and the oldest in Scotland. Situated in a small town on the east coast of Fife, St Andrews has long been a centre of Scottish political, intellectual, and religious life. This history is reflected in the University’s esteemed reputation, particularly in the humanities, with internationally recognised strengths in divinity, philosophy, and international relations. Today, St Andrews hosts approximately 9,500 students from over 130 countries, making up nearly half of the town’s population. Unlike many universities, St Andrews is not confined to a single campus but is spread throughout the town, integrating with its historic buildings and landscape.

Scottish undergraduate degrees typically last four years, offering students more academic flexibility compared to the three-year degree system in England. At St Andrews, students apply to one of four faculties—Arts, Divinity, Medicine, or Science—and select modules towards their degree. In the first two years, students have the flexibility to explore a broad range of subjects before specialising in their honours years. This modular structure encourages interdisciplinary learning and a well-rounded academic experience.

As one of Scotland’s four ancient universities, St Andrews is steeped in tradition. Notable customs include the practice of 'academic families', where third-year students ('parents') mentor first-year students ('children'). Another famous tradition is the May Dip, where students plunge into the cold North Sea at dawn on 1 May to 'cleanse' themselves of the academic year's sins—a practice both celebrated and dreaded by participants.

In recent years, St Andrews has garnered numerous accolades. In 2020, it was named University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times University Guide. Additionally, the University was awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for its outstanding teaching and student satisfaction. The University also offers a wide array of study-abroad opportunities, partnering with universities worldwide, allowing students to spend a year in institutions such as those in the USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

For postgraduate students, St Andrews offers over 200 master's programmes and a range of research opportunities across various disciplines. The University's research reputation is strong, with several academic schools and centres leading in innovative research output.

Services for International Students

The University of St Andrews offers robust support for international students, including pre-sessional and free in-sessional English language programmes. The International Advice Service has two dedicated International Student Advisors who provide tailored support, assisting students with practical and cultural transitions. This includes guidance on visa requirements, adjusting to life in the UK, and access to broader student welfare services.

St Andrews is committed to making its education accessible to students of all backgrounds. A variety of scholarships and bursaries are available for international students, designed to assist with living costs and tuition fees. These include the International Undergraduate Scholarship and other merit-based awards.

Undergraduates are assigned an Adviser of Studies, whom they consult at the start of each semester to discuss academic choices. Advisers offer ongoing support, helping students navigate the University's modular structure and ensure their chosen degree pathways remain open.

Ranking

• 2nd in the Times University Guide 2025
• 2nd in the Guardian University Guide 2025
• 104th in the QS World University Rankings 2025
• 193rd in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024

St Andrews has maintained its position as the top university in Scotland for the last ten years according to The Times University Guide, and it was named the UK University of the Year in 2020. Its computer science programmes are ranked the best in the UK, reflecting its growing prominence in STEM subjects.

According to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, over 88% of the research conducted by St Andrews is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent, solidifying its reputation as a research-intensive institution. The University ranked 3rd in Scotland and 28th in the UK for overall research quality.

Accommodation

St Andrews guarantees an offer of university-managed accommodation for all first-year undergraduate students who submit their accommodation application by 30 June in their year of entry. There are over 4,000 rooms spread across the town, with around 40% of these being catered options. Students can choose between single or shared rooms, with either shared bathroom facilities or en suite options available. The accommodation is located throughout the town, rather than on a centralised campus, integrating students into the local community.

The range of accommodation options at St Andrews is diverse. From traditional stone-built halls full of historical character, like St Salvator's Hall, to modern, eco-friendly apartments, the University offers something to suit every preference. Andrew Melville Hall, with its unique architectural design, remains a popular choice among students.

Location

The town of St Andrews sits on a rocky headland overlooking the dramatic waters of the North Sea. Around 22,000 people, including students, live in this small, historic town and many beautiful buildings still stand as monuments to the thousands of years it has been a focal point for bishops, kings, saints and martyrs. The University does not have a campus, but instead covers the whole town and St Andrews is just over 80km north east of Edinburgh.

The University of St Andrews has superb facilities in a variety of buildings, ranging from the ultra-modern new Medical laboratories on our North Haugh site, to the mediaeval grandeur of St Salvators Quadrangle where many lectures are held daily. Both The Students Union and University Sports Centre have had undergone improvements in the last decade, with the Sports Centre being the subject of a major £14 million redevelopment.

Alumni

• Prince William, Duke of Cambridge
• Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge
• Chris Hoy - Cyclist, the most successful British Olympian in terms of gold medals
• Dame Barbara Woodword – UK Ambassador to China
• John Witherspoon - US Declaration of Independence signatory)