University Guide
University of St Andrews
Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is Scotland’s first university. University life is woven into the surrounding town, with historic buildings, academic departments and student spaces forming part of everyday life. Most undergraduate degrees take four years, and its flexible degree structure allows many students to explore additional subjects before specialising. Teaching spans Arts, Divinity, Science and Medicine, alongside a student experience shaped by societies and longstanding traditions.
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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of St Andrews.
Rankings
St Andrews is ranked first in the UK in The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027 and was named Scottish University of the Year. Five subjects topped their UK tables: English, Modern Languages, History, Art History and Physics.
Employability
The Careers Centre helps students explore career options, find internships and prepare job applications. CareerConnect provides access to opportunities and appointments, while Saint Connect offers alumni networking and mentoring. Graduates can continue booking careers appointments for three years after graduation and retain lifetime access to the university’s online careers tools and resources.
Fees
For 2026/27, undergraduate tuition is £9,790 for students assessed at the rest-of-UK fee rate, including the Republic of Ireland. Eligible students with Scotland fee status can apply to SAAS for tuition support. Overseas entrants in Arts, Divinity and Science pay £33,250, while Medicine entrants pay £39,620. Rates depend on your entry year and fee status, so check the university’s tuition fee table and allow for possible annual increases.
Bursaries
The St Andrews Access Award supports eligible undergraduates with Home or rest-of-UK fee status. For 2027 entry, students with evidenced household income below £21,000 can receive £2,000 towards maintenance and £1,900 towards accommodation annually, subject to the award conditions. Other income bands receive different support. Applications close on 15 April 2027, and you can apply before receiving a university offer. The wider scholarship catalogue includes international, academic, sport and music awards.
Accommodation
St Andrews offers catered and self-catered accommodation, with shared-bathroom, en-suite and shared-room options. For 2026/27, Fife Park costs £6,709 for a standard single room or £9,286 for an en-suite single, both on 38-week contracts. Utilities, internet, contents insurance and hall subscriptions are included. The published first-year accommodation guarantee covers eligible full-time undergraduates coming alone for the full academic year. Conditions include applying by 30 June, accepting an unconditional university offer by 31 August and accepting the accommodation offer within seven days. Room preferences are not guaranteed, and additional conditions apply. Check the terms for your entry year, or explore private student accommodation in St Andrews through AFS.
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Students' Union
The St Andrews Students’ Association, known as Your Union, brings together societies, volunteering, student representation and social events. Its spaces include cafés, bars, rehearsal rooms and Club 601. The Advocacy and Advice service offers free, confidential and independent support with academic issues, helping students navigate challenges during their studies.
Famous for
Notable alumni include King James II of Scotland, Founder of the university of Glasgow William Turnbull and Prince William.
News
On 19 October 2026, students gathered on Lower College Lawn for the annual Raisin Monday foam fight. The celebration forms part of St Andrews’ academic-family tradition, where older students welcome and support newcomers. Participants were also encouraged to bring food donations for the local foodbank.
Accommodation for Students says
"St Andrews has it all. An amazing university, a stunning location, a world class sporting facility and rugged coastline".
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