University of Aberdeen: Courses, Fees, And Rankings 2026!
Over 525 Years of Excellence Awaits!
Table of Content
- About the University of Aberdeen
- University of Aberdeen Rankings
- University of Aberdeen Courses
- University of Aberdeen Tuition Fees
- University of Aberdeen Scholarships
- University of Aberdeen Admissions Process
- University of Aberdeen Eligibility Criteria
- University of Aberdeen Student Life
- University of Aberdeen Placements
- Student Accommodation near University of Aberdeen
Pioneering discovery and fostering innovation for over five centuries, the University of Aberdeen stands as a beacon of academic excellence in Scotland. Founded in 1495, this ancient institution represents the 5th oldest university in the UK, with a remarkable heritage. Located in Aberdeen, the Energy Capital of Europe, the university has evolved from its medieval roots into a modern, globally recognised research powerhouse. Today, Aberdeen Uni serves a diverse community of students from many countries, offering cutting-edge research facilities and an unwavering commitment to creating real-world impact.
About the University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen Scotland stands proudly among the best universities in the UK, consistently delivering exceptional education and groundbreaking research. Nestled in Aberdeen, this historic institution operates across two stunning campuses, the picturesque King's College Campus in Old Aberdeen and the modern Foresterhill Campus. The university serves a thriving community of over 14,500 students, with more than 5,600 international learners representing over 130 nationalities. The institution offers an extensive portfolio of programs across 12 academic schools.
What truly distinguishes this university is its commitment to interdisciplinary research and education. The Uni of Aberdeen focuses on five key strategic themes: Energy Transition, Social Inclusion and Cultural Diversity, Environment and Biodiversity, Data and AI, and Health, Nutrition and Wellbeing. University of Aberdeen alumni include Sir Patrick Manson, the "Father of Tropical Medicine", reflecting the institution's global impact and commitment to producing world-changing graduates.
University of Aberdeen Rankings
The University of Aberdeen continues to earn international recognition for its academic excellence, securing its position among leading global institutions. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Aberdeen Uni is positioned at #236 globally, demonstrating its international standing and academic reputation. The Guardian University Guide 2026 ranks it #18 in the UK, while The Complete University Guide 2026 places the institution at #40 nationally, highlighting its consistent performance across multiple ranking systems.
The institution also earned GOLD status in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), confirming its dedication to high-quality education. Furthermore, the university ranks #12 in the UK for research impact (REF 2021), with approximately 77% of its research recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent. These University of Aberdeen rankings collectively showcase the institution's commitment to delivering transformative education and pioneering research that addresses global challenges.
University of Aberdeen Courses
The University of Aberdeen offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs designed to prepare students for successful careers. With over 370 bachelor's programs and more than 120 master's degrees spanning multiple disciplines, students can choose from an impressive array of options. University of Aberdeen courses include degrees in areas such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business Administration, Psychology, Marine Biology, Data Science, and International Relations.
For postgraduate study, the university provides extensive master's programs in disciplines like Renewable Energy Engineering, International Commercial Law, Strategic Studies, Medical Imaging, and Artificial Intelligence. The institution also offers numerous doctoral research opportunities across its global campuses, reinforcing its reputation for innovation and world-class research. Here are the popular University of Aberdeen courses that attract students from around the globe!
Undergraduate Degrees
The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs that combine rigorous academic study with hands-on practical experience. Popular undergraduate courses at this university include:
Popular Undergraduate Courses
| Undergraduate Course | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| Medicine (MBChB) | Health Sciences |
| Law (LLB) | Law & Legal Studies |
| Mechanical Engineering | Engineering |
| Business Management | Business |
| Marine Biology | Biological Sciences |
Postgraduate Degrees
The institution offers a wide selection of master's programs designed to provide students with advanced expertise, cutting-edge research skills, and direct industry exposure. Popular postgraduate University of Aberdeen courses are:
Popular Postgraduate Courses
| Postgraduate Course | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| MSc Renewable Energy Engineering | Engineering |
| LLM International Commercial Law | Law |
| MBA (Master of Business Administration) | Business |
| MSc Data Science | Technology |
| MSc Medical Imaging | Health Sciences |
PhD Degrees
For those aspiring to reach the pinnacle of academic achievement and make groundbreaking contributions to their fields, the university offers doctoral programs. Here is a list of popular PhD programs offered by this institution:
PhD Programs
| PhD Program | Field of Study |
|---|---|
| PhD Medicine and Medical Sciences | Health Sciences |
| PhD Engineering | Engineering |
| PhD Law | Law |
| PhD Business and Management | Business |
| PhD Biological Sciences | Science |
University of Aberdeen Tuition Fees
Understanding the University of Aberdeen tuition fees is essential for effective financial planning. For UK undergraduate students annual fees are typically £9,535, while international undergraduate students can expect to pay between £20,800 and £50,100 per year. University of Aberdeen tuition fees for postgraduate programs generally range from £11,100 for UK students to between £20,800 and £31,000 per year for international students.
Beyond tuition, students at the University should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses. Aberdeen is known for being one of the cheapest places to live in UK, making the city an excellent choice for students. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with studying at this university!
Estimated Yearly Tuition Fees
| Expense Category | UK Students (GBP) | International Students (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition – Undergraduate | £9,535 | £20,800 – £50,100 |
| Tuition – Postgraduate | £11,100 – £14,000 | £20,800 – £31,000 |
| On-campus Accommodation | £5,400 – £8,100 | £5,400 – £8,100 |
| Food / Toiletries / Laundry | £2,500 | £2,500 |
| Social Life / Entertainment | £1600 | £1600 |
| Mobile Phone | £300 | £300 |
| Books / Academic Supplies | £350 | £350 |
| Travel / Commuting | £250 | £250 |
| Private Rent (Off-campus) | ~£6,500 | ~£6,500 |
| Total Yearly | £19,935 – £23,635 | £31,200 – £63,200 |
University of Aberdeen Scholarships
The University of Aberdeen is deeply committed to making higher education accessible by offering a variety of University of Aberdeen scholarships and funding opportunities. Merit-based awards such as the Aberdeen Global Scholarship provide significant tuition fee reductions, £6,000 annually for undergraduate students and £8,000 for postgraduate students. These scholarships recognise academic excellence and help talented international students achieve their educational goals.
An incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides £5000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of notable scholarships available at this prestigious institution!
Scholarships at the University of Aberdeen!
| Scholarship / Award Name | Eligible Level(s) | Benefit Description |
|---|---|---|
| Aberdeen Global Scholarship | UG & PG (International) | £6,000 annual tuition waiver for UG; £8,000 for PG taught students; for self-funded international students starting September 2025 or January 2026 |
| Access and Merit Scholarships | Undergraduate (RUK) | Financial support for students from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland; amounts vary based on circumstances and academic merit |
| Alumni Loyalty Discount | Postgraduate (Alumni) | 20% discount on postgraduate tuition fees for graduates continuing their studies at the institution |
| Country-Specific Scholarships | UG & PG (International) | Targeted funding for students from specific countries or regions; amounts and criteria vary by origin country |
| Sports Excellence Scholarships | Undergraduate | Financial support and access to elite training facilities for talented athletes; amount varies based on achievement and sport |
| Research Council Funding | PhD | Competitive funding through UK Research Councils for doctoral research; covers tuition fees and a living stipend |
University of Aberdeen Admissions Process
The admission process at the University of Aberdeen is designed to be transparent and supportive. Whether applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs at this university, students must meet specific academic and documentation requirements to be considered for admission. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the admissions process effectively.
1. Fill Out the Application – Apply online through the UCAS portal for undergraduate programs or via the university's direct application system for postgraduate courses.
2. Provide Academic Transcripts – Submit official academic transcripts from your previous educational institutions (high school for undergraduates, bachelor's degree for postgraduates) demonstrating your academic eligibility.
3. English Language Proficiency – If English is not your first language, provide proof through IELTS (typically 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5), TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent test scores meeting the institution's requirements.
4. Personal Statement – Write a compelling personal statement explaining your academic interests, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing this university and your specific program.
5. Letters of Recommendation – Some programs may require one or two academic or professional references to support your application.
University of Aberdeen Eligibility Criteria
The institution maintains clear and accessible entry requirements, ensuring that applicants are well-prepared for their chosen programs. This institution offers programs across multiple disciplines, including medicine, law, engineering, business, humanities, and social sciences. Below are the general eligibility requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor's Degrees
1. Academic Performance – Applicants must have completed secondary education with strong results. Typical requirements include A-level grades of BBB-AAA (depending on the course) or equivalent qualifications such as IB Diploma with 28-38 points.
2. Subject-Specific Requirements – Some programs (particularly in medicine, sciences, and engineering) require specific subjects at A-level or equivalent. Medical programs have additional requirements, including UCAT scores and interviews.
Eligibility Criteria for Master's Degrees
1. Academic Background: A bachelor's degree from a recognised institution with a minimum of 55-60% (for Indian students) or a UK 2:2 honours classification is required. Competitive programs may require higher grades (UK 2:1 or First Class).
2. Relevant Experience: Certain programs may require relevant work experience or professional qualifications, particularly in fields like business, law, and health sciences.
3. Letters of Recommendation: Most postgraduate programs require two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to your abilities and potential.
University of Aberdeen Student Life
The University of Aberdeen offers an enriching student experience in one of Scotland's most beautiful and welcoming cities. With more than 150 student clubs and societies managed by the Aberdeen University Students' Association (AUSA), there are countless opportunities to get involved, whether joining the Debating Society, Drama Society, International Society, Energy Society, or competing with the Aberdeen University Sports Union. Regular campus events, cultural celebrations, volunteering programs, and leadership opportunities ensure students enjoy a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
Beyond campus, the university’s location offers a perfect blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Students can explore cosy cafes like Books and Beans and The Bakehouse, or enjoy social evenings at popular spots such as BrewDog Aberdeen, The Grill, and The Tippling House. The city boasts stunning attractions, including Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, the picturesque Footdee fishing village, Duthie Park with its beautiful winter gardens, and the award-winning Aberdeen Beach.
Students often take day trips to the Cairngorms National Park, Royal Deeside, Inverness, Edinburgh, or coastal gems like Stonehaven. Aberdeen International Airport offers convenient access to various destinations. Student life at this university offers a truly memorable and transformative experience.
University of Aberdeen Placements
The University of Aberdeen is renowned for its exceptional employability record and strong connections with leading employers worldwide. The institution's Careers and Employability Service provides comprehensive support, including CV workshops, mock interviews, career counselling, and work experience opportunities. This university boasts an impressive 90% graduate employment rate, with alumni securing positions or continuing their education within 15 months of graduation.
Strong partnerships with global companies in the oil and gas, renewable energy, technology, healthcare, legal, and financial services sectors provide students with valuable internships, placements, and recruitment opportunities. University of Aberdeen alumni pursue successful careers with top employers such as Shell, BP, TotalEnergies, Wood, Baker Hughes, Subsea7, NHS Scotland, Deloitte, HSBC, and major law firms.
The average starting salary for graduates from this institution is around £40,000–£45,000 annually, with significantly higher earning potential in specialised fields. University of Aberdeen alumni in sectors such as petroleum engineering, renewable energy, medicine, law, and data science can earn £60,000+ in their early careers, reflecting the institution's commitment to producing highly skilled, industry-ready professionals.
Student Accommodation near University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen provides on-campus accommodation for over 2,000 students at various halls of residence across King's Campus and the city centre. Many students choose off-campus housing for greater independence, flexibility, and variety. The areas surrounding the institution offer numerous housing options, from modern studio apartments to shared flats with fellow students, all within easy reach of campus.
Well-equipped communities offering student accommodation near University of Aberdeen feature amenities such as study spaces, communal lounges, laundry facilities, gym access, high-speed Wi-Fi, and an excellent commute. For those seeking safe, affordable, and convenient off-campus housing options, amber provides a wide variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some top options for student accommodation near University of Aberdeen!
All these aspects will help you choose why the University of Aberdeen is a great choice for you and if yes, how to proceed further!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of Aberdeen best known for?
Aberdeen Uni is best known for its exceptional research output, particularly in medicine, energy transition, and marine sciences.
What famous people went to the University of Aberdeen?
University of Aberdeen alumni include Sir Patrick Manson (Father of Tropical Medicine), Alistair Darling (former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer), Iain Glen (Game of Thrones actor), Dame Anne Glover (former Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland), and Thomas Reid (philosopher and founder of the Scottish School of Common Sense).
What is the cost of studying at Aberdeen University?
University of Aberdeen tuition fees for international undergraduate students range from £20,800 to £50,100 per year, while postgraduate fees range from £20,800 to £31,000 per year.
Is the University of Aberdeen private or public?
The institution is a public university and one of Scotland's ancient universities, founded in 1495.
Is the University of Aberdeen hard to get into?
Aberdeen University has an acceptance rate of approximately 78%, making it moderately selective.