University of St Andrews

The University of St Andrews is one of the oldest public universities in the world. Located in St Andrews, Scotland, it is also the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and one of its four ancient universities. St Andrews, alongside the universities of Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh, played a key role in the Scottish Enlightenment during the 18th century.

The University of St Andrews is home to more than 10,200 students, of whom over 3,600 are international students hailing from more than 145 countries. Known for maintaining historic customs, the student body participates in traditions such as Raisin Weekend, May Dip, and wearing distinctive academic attire.

St Andrews offers more than 152 undergraduate courses, 107 postgraduate courses, and a wide range of scholarships for international students. The institute boasts five Nobel laureates among its alumni and former staff, with three in chemistry and two in physiology or medicine.

The University of St Andrews clearly states that ‘To illustrate the connection with the university’s strategy, each IE mission statement listed below is followed by the two primary themes from the university strategy to which it relates.

The mission of IE is to:

1. Enhance diversity within the University by facilitating international students’ entry onto and success on degree programmes, through needs-driven pathway courses and ongoing individualised provision. University strategy themes: Diverse St Andrews; World-leading St Andrews.
2. Develop high quality short courses that make a St Andrews learning experience available to a diverse range of potential students. University strategy themes: Global St Andrews; Diverse St Andrews.
3. Promote pathway and short course offerings in collaboration with the University’s Admissions unit. University strategy themes: Global St Andrews; Entrepreneurial St Andrews.
4. Pioneer new approaches to teaching and contribute to teacher development within the higher education and language teaching community. University strategy themes: World-leading St Andrews; Entrepreneurial St Andrews.’

The University of St Andrews is carrying out a history of more than 612 years, having been established in 1413. In 1410, a group of Augustinian clergy established a school in St Andrews. They offered courses in subjects like divinity, logic, philosophy, and law.

On February 28, 1411–12, the Bishop of St Andrews, Henry Wardlaw, gave the school a special privilege. Wardlaw also asked Pope Benedict XIII in Avignon to grant the school university status, and in August 1413, the pope granted university status through a series of papal bulls.

The University of St Andrews holds accreditation from many prestigious professional bodies. Some of them are:

1. British Psychological Society (BPS)
2. General Medical Council (GMC)
3. Geological Society
4. Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)
5. Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
6. Royal Statistical Society (RSS)

1. Library
2. Theatre
3. Cafes
4. Shop
5. Commuter student lounges
6. Sports Centre
7. Music Centre
8. The Byre Theatre
9. Activities for children
10. Worship in St Andrews
11. Student support

Foundation

1. Chemistry (International Year One)
2. Computer Science (International Year One)
3. Environmental Biological Sciences (International Year One)
4. Geography (International Year One)
5. Geology and Environmental Sciences (International Year One)
6. Mathematics and Statistics (International Year One)
7. Medical Sciences (International Pre-Med)
8. Molecular Biological Sciences (International Year One)
9. Physics and Astronomy (International Year One)
10. Psychology (International Year One)
11. Science (International Year Zero)
12. Social Sciences and Humanities (International Year Zero)

Undergraduate

1. Ancient History
2. Ancient History and Archaeology
3. Animal Behaviour
4. Applied Mathematics
5. Arabic
6. Art History
7. Astrophysics
8. Bible and Culture
9. Biblical Studies
10. Biochemistry
11. Biochemistry (4 Years)
12. Biology
13. Cell Biology
14. Chemical Sciences
15. Chemistry
16. Chemistry (4 Years)
17. Chemistry and Mathematics
18. Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry
19. Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry (5 Years)
20. Chinese Studies
21. Classical Studies
22. Classical Studies (4 Years)
23. Classical Studies (International Honours)
24. Classics
25. Comparative Literature
26. Computer Science
27. Computer Science (4 Years)
28. Divinity
29. Earth Sciences
30. Ecology and Conservation
31. Economics
32. Economics (4 Years)
33. Economics (International Honours)
34. English
35. English (4 Years)
36. Environmental Earth Sciences
37. Evolutionary Biology
38. Film Studies
39. Film Studies (4 Years)
40. Financial Economics
41. Financial Economics (4 Years)
42. French
43. Geography
44. Geography (4 Years)
45. Geology
46. German
47. Greek
48. Hebrew
49. History
50. History (4 Years)
51. International Relations
52. International Relations (4 Years)
53. Italian
54. Latin
55. Management
56. Management (4 Years)
57. Marine Biology
58. Marine Biology (4 Years)
59. Materials Chemistry
60. Materials Chemistry (4 Years)
61. Mathematics
62. Mathematics (4 Years)
63. Mathematics (5 Years)
64. Medicine A100
65. Medicine A100 (3 Years Training with a Partner Medical School)
66. Medicine A990
67. Medicine A990 (3 Years Training with a Partner Medical School)
68. Medieval History
69. Medieval History and Archaeology
70. Middle East Studies
71. Modern History
72. Molecular Biology
73. Neuroscience
74. New Testament
75. Persian (Joint Degree)
76. Philosophy
77. Physics
78. Physics (5 Years)
79. Psychology
80. Psychology (4 Years)
81. Pure Mathematics
82. Russian
83. Scottish History
84. Social Anthropology
85. Spanish
86. Statistics
87. Statistics (4 Years)
88. Statistics (5 Years)
89. Sustainable Development
90. Sustainable Development (4 Years)
91. Theological Studies
92. Theology
93. Theoretical Physics
94. Zoology

Postgraduate

1. Analytic and Exegetical Theology
2. Animal Behaviour
3. Anthropology, Art and Perception
4. Applied Statistics and Datamining
5. Applied Statistics and Datamining (Diploma)
6. Art History
7. Artificial Intelligence
8. Astrophysics
9. Audiovisual and Cinema Studies
10. Banking and Finance
11. Bible and the Contemporary World – Online
12. Bible and the Contemporary World – Online (2 Years)
13. Biblical Languages and Literature
14. Biology: Biomedical Sciences
15. Catalysis
16. Chemical Science
17. Chemistry (1 Year)
18. Classics
19. Classics (1 Year)
20. Comparative Literature
21. Comparative, Evolutionary and Developmental Psychology: Origins of Mind
22. Computer Science
23. Computer Science (1 Year)
24. Computer Science (5 Years)
25. Computing and Information Technology
26. Conversion in Philosophy (Diploma)
27. Creative Writing
28. Data Literacy for Social and Environmental Justice
29. Data Literacy for Social and Environmental Justice (Certificate)
30. Data Literacy for Social and Environmental Justice (Diploma)
31. Data Science
32. Data Science (Certificate)
33. Data Science (Diploma)
34. Data-Intensive Analysis
35. Early Modern and Reformation History
36. Earth and Environmental Sciences
37. Economics
38. Energy Policy and Finance
39. English
40. Entrepreneurship
41. Environmental History
42. Environmental Science
43. Film Studies
44. Finance
45. Finance and Economics
46. Finance and Management
47. Gender Studies
48. Geochemistry
49. Geography and Sustainable Development
50. German and Comparative Literature
51. Global Languages, Literatures and Cultures
52. Global Social and Political Thought
53. Global Sustainable Development
54. Health Data Science
55. Health Professions Education
56. Health Professions Education (Certificate)
57. Health Professions Education (Diploma)
58. History
59. History of Photography
60. Human Computer Interaction
61. Intellectual History
62. International Business
63. International Education
64. International Education (6 Months)
65. International Education (6 Months) (Online)
66. International Education (9 Months)
67. International Education (9 Months) (Online)
68. International Education (Online)
69. International Political Theory
70. International Security Studies
71. Iranian Studies
72. Iranian Studies - Online
73. Legal and Constitutional Studies
74. Management
75. Management (1 Year)
76. Marine Ecosystem Management
77. Marine Mammal Science
78. Marketing
79. Mathematical Biology
80. Mathematics
81. Medicine
82. Medieval English
83. Medieval History
84. Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asian Security Studies
85. Middle Eastern History
86. Modern and Contemporary Literature and Culture
87. Modern History
88. Museum and Heritage Studies
89. Neuroscience
90. Peacebuilding and Mediation
91. Philosophy
92. Playwriting and Screenwriting
93. Psychology and Neuroscience
94. Psychology Conversion
95. Research Methods in Psychology
96. Sacred Music
97. Social Anthropology
98. Software Engineering
99. Statistical Ecology
100. Statistical Ecology (Diploma)
101. Statistics
102. Strategic Studies
103. Sustainable Aquaculture
104. Systematic and Historical Theology
105. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - Online with Optional Specialism
106. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - Online with Optional Specialism (Certificate)
107. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - Online with Optional Specialism (Diploma)
108. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - with Optional Specialism
109. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - with Optional Specialism (Certificate)
110. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - with Optional Specialism (Diploma)
111. Terrorism and Political Violence
112. Terrorism and Political Violence – Online
113. The Book. History and Techniques of Analysis
114. Theology and the Arts
115. Transnational, Global and Spatial History
116. Women, Writing and Gender

The University of St Andrews has four faculties. These include:

1. Faculty of Arts
2. Faculty of Divinity
3. Faculty of Medicine
4. Faculty of Science

The University of St Andrews accommodates an esteemed staff body. These include:

1. The Rt Hon Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Chancellor)
2. Professor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE (Vice-Chancellor)
3. Stella Maris (Rector)
4. Ray Perman (Senior Lay Member)

A rich city filled with more than 14,000 people, there are tonnes of things to do and explore in St. Andrews.

1. The Students' Association offers more than 140 different clubs and societies.
2. St Andrews enjoys a rich and diverse performing arts culture, made possible by the Mermaids Performing Arts Fund.
3. You can take part in events like Red academic gown, Raisin Weekend, May Dip, Soakings, and more.
4. If you are a golf lover, then this university would be great for you, as the town is often regarded as the ‘Home of Golf.’
5. The town features three beautiful beaches, Scotland's most impressive cathedral, and a unique blend of independent shops, restaurants, and galleries.
6. On The Rocks, Scotland's largest student-run arts festival, is a must-see for fans of theatre and the arts.
7. The Byre Theatre in the town offers a diverse and lively range of university performances, events, activities, along with conferences, exhibitions, and social engagements.

1. Undergraduate: 78%
2. Postgraduate: 22%
3. Full-time students: 91%
4. Part-time students: 9%
5. UK students: 55%
6. EU students: 9%
7. International students: 36%
8. Female: 59%
9. Male: 41%

1. Dundee Airport is the closest airport, about 15 miles away from the town.
2. The nearest railway station to St Andrews is Leuchars, about six miles away from the town.
3. The University offers a free night bus; students and staff are required to show their ID cards.
4. The Bike Pool offers free bike fixing sessions, bike fixing lessons, refurbished bikes for rent, and more.
5. Every 10 minutes, buses travel to the railway station, which is 6 miles outside St Andrews.
6. Students under 22 who live in Scotland can benefit from the Scottish Government's free bus travel scheme.

Self-catered accommodation costs £116 - £241 per week

The University of St Andrews provides the utmost facilities in its accommodation services. The university has different accommodation options to suit all the needs and budgets of the students.

The halls of residences are:

1. Self-catered standard (Undergraduate)
2. Self-catered en suite (Undergraduate)
3. Catered standard (Undergraduate)
4. Catered en suite (Undergraduate)
5. Self-catered standard (Postgraduate)
6. Self-catered en suite (Postgraduate)
7. Catered (Postgraduate)
8. Self-catered studio apartments (Postgraduate)
9. Self-catered en suite (Foundation)
10. Catered en suite (Foundation)

The University of St Andrews offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. These include:

1. Aikido
2. Archery
3. Athletics and Cross Country
4. Badminton
5. Basketball
6. Boxing
7. Canoe
8. Cheerleading
9. Clay Pigeon Shooting
10. Cricket
11. Dance
12. Fencing
13. Football
14. Futsal
15. Golf
16. Hockey
17. Ice Hockey
18. Ice Skating
19. Judo
20. Jujitsu
21. Karate
22. Kendo
23. Korfball
24. Lacrosse
25. Mixed Martial Arts
26. Mountaineering
27. Netball
28. Parkour
29. Pole Dancing
30. Polo
31. Riding
32. Rifle
33. Rowing
34. Rugby
35. Sailing
36. Shinty
37. Snowsports
38. Squash
39. Sub Aqua
40. Surfing
41. Swimming
42. Table Tennis
43. Taekwon-do
44. Tennis
45. Trampoline and Gymnastics
46. Triathlon
47. Ultimate Frisbee
48. Volleyball
49. Water Polo
50. Olympic Weightlifting
51. Windsurfing

The University of St Andrews has partnerships with some of the most esteemed professional bodies. Some of them are:

1. James Cook University
2. Macquarie University
3. University of Melbourne
4. Queen's University
5. University of Toronto
6. University of British Columbia
7. 中国人民大学 (Renmin University of China)
8. University of Auckland
9. National University of Singapore
10. Universidad de Montevideo
11. Emory University
12. Purdue University
13. Washington College
14. University of Virginia
15. University of Richmond

Researchers from all over the world come together at St Andrews to explore and challenge global and local issues, with research ranging from ancient history to contemporary scientific advancements.

According to the REF 2021, more than 88% of research has been classified as either world-leading or internationally excellent.

The research centres are mentioned below:

1. Centre for Research into Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (CREDI)
2. Centre for Research into Information, Surveillance and Privacy (CRISP)
3. Centre for Responsible Banking and Finance (CRBF)
4. Centre for Social and Environmental Accounting Research (CSEAR)
5. Centre for the Study of Philanthropy and Public Good (CSPPG)
6. Institute for Capitalising on Creativity (ICC)
7. Research Unit for Research Utilisation (RURU)

Fee range for international students: £25,900–£37,730 per year

The University of St Andrews provides a great range of generous scholarships for international students to make their costs more affordable. Given below are some of the international scholarships that the institute is currently providing:

1. Centre for Energy Ethics Dissertation Research Grant Scheme
2. Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council Studentship
3. Recent Graduate Discount
4. Robert T Jones Memorial Trust Scholarship
5. Science and Technology Facilities Council studentship funding
6. St Andrews - GREAT Scholarship
7. St Andrews Education for Palestinian Students (STEPS)
8. Students’ Association Bursary
9. The Annual Mattress Research Scholarship
10. Professor Margaret and Professor Alastair Wood School of Medicine Fund
11. St Leonards Digital Education Scholarship (September 2025 entry)
12. Wilhelmina Barns-Graham Trust Museum and Gallery Studies Award
13. Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award
14. Global Doctoral scholarship - St Andrews and Bonn - Chemistry
15. MSc International Education and MSc TESOL Online Scholarship (September 2025 entry)
16. Bolashak Scholarships
17. British Federation of Women Graduates
18. Canadian Centennial Scholarship Fund
19. Charles Wallace India Trust
20. Charles Wallace Trusts
21. Clan Donald Scholarship
22. Colt Foundation Fellowships
23. Commonwealth Masters Scholarships
24. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
25. Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships (for low and middle income countries)
26. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Studentship Funding
27. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Studentship Funding
28. Fondo para el Desarrollo de Recursos Humanos (FIDERH)
29. Fulbright University of St Andrews Award
30. Inlaks Scholarships

The University of St Andrews has some notable alumni. These include:

1. William, Prince of Wales (Heir apparent to the British throne)
2. Catherine, Princess of Wales (Member of the British royal family)
3. Thomas Chalmers (Scottish Presbyterian minister)
4. Edward Jenner (English physician)
5. John Knox (Scottish minister)
6. John Napier (Scottish landowner)
7. John Pringle (British physician)
8. James Wilson (Legal scholar)
9. Alex Salmond (First Minister of Scotland)

By providing expert advice and access to invaluable resources, the University of St Andrews plays a crucial role in helping students and graduates successfully transition from university to their chosen careers.

Their services include:

1. Improve your skills
2. Employability Bursary
3. Internships and employability experiences
4. Career timelines
5. Job vacancies
6. How to apply for a job or internship
7. CareerConnect
8. Jobs
9. Internships
10. How to apply for a job
11. Career options
12. Events

1. Scottish University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
2. Named top in the UK for Student Experience
3. St Andrews has won Green Gown Awards
4. The institute has maintained its position as the top university in Scotland for the last ten years, according to The Times University Guide

1. 2nd in the Times University Guide 2025
2. 2nd in the Guardian University Guide 2025
3. 104th in the QS World University Rankings 2025

St Andrews is a historic town located on the east side of Scotland, in the kingdom of Fife. The town is renowned for its rich heritage, world-famous university, and as the birthplace of golf.

The town is surrounded by stunning coastal areas, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea. The location makes it a prime destination for visitors, with its charming mediaeval streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene.