Abertay University International Student Guide: Admissions, Life & Support

🎓 Introduction

Every year, Abertay University welcomes hundreds of international students from over 60 countries 🌏. Known for its pioneering courses in games technology, cybersecurity, life sciences, and business, Abertay offers a world-class education in a welcoming and affordable city — Dundee.

This International Student Guide 2025 will help you understand how to apply, what support is available, and what life is really like as an international student at Abertay.

📝 Admissions Process for International Students

Applying to Abertay University as an international student is straightforward if you follow the right steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Course

Explore undergraduate or postgraduate courses (games, computing, law, biomedical science, business, etc.).
Check specific course requirements on Abertay’s website.

Step 2: Entry Requirements

Undergraduate: Equivalent of UK A-levels (e.g., IB Diploma 26–28 points).
Postgraduate: Equivalent of a UK bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:2).
English Language: IELTS 6.0–6.5 (or equivalent tests like TOEFL iBT, PTE).

Step 3: Apply Online

Applications are made via UCAS (for undergraduates) or directly to Abertay (for postgraduates).
Include personal statement, academic transcripts, and references.

Step 4: Receive Offer Letter

Conditional or unconditional offers will be sent after assessment.
International students may need to pay a deposit to secure their place.

Step 5: Apply for Student Visa

For most non-UK students, you will need a Student Route Visa (Tier 4).
Abertay issues a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) required for your visa application.

💷 Tuition Fees & Scholarships (2025)

Tuition Fees (Approximate)

Undergraduate: £14,000 – £16,000 per year
Postgraduate: £15,000 – £17,000 per year
Specialised programs (e.g., Games, Ethical Hacking): May cost slightly more

Scholarships & Funding

Abertay International Scholarship: £3,000 – £5,000 off tuition fees.
Country-specific awards: Tailored scholarships for selected regions.
External Funding: Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, and private sponsors.

👉 Always apply early as scholarships are competitive.

🏠 Accommodation Options

International students are guaranteed accommodation if they apply on time.

University Halls:

Lyon Street Halls (£110–£130/week)
Meadowside Court (£130–£150/week)
Parker House (£160–£200/week, en-suite)

Private Student Halls:

iQ Parker House, Marketgait Apartments (£150–£220/week)

Private Flats:

£350–£500/month + bills (£60–£90/month)

👉 Most Abertay accommodation is walking distance to campus, making it ideal for first-time international students.

💸 Cost of Living in Dundee (2025)

Dundee is among the most affordable student cities in Scotland.

Category	Monthly Cost (£)
Accommodation	500–700 (halls) or 350–500 (shared flat)
Food & Groceries	160–200
Transport	20–55 (many students walk)
Leisure & Entertainment	80–120
Total Monthly Budget	650 – 1,000

👉 This is significantly cheaper than Edinburgh or London, where costs can exceed £1,400–£1,800/month.

🛬 Arrival & Orientation

Abertay provides dedicated support for international arrivals:

Airport Pick-up: From Edinburgh or Glasgow airports during arrival week.
Orientation Programme: Introduces students to the university, Dundee city, and UK culture.
International Welcome Events: Meet fellow students through mixers, campus tours, and society fairs.

💡 Student Support Services

Abertay ensures every international student feels at home.

Visa & Immigration Advice: Guidance on maintaining visa status.
Academic Support: Personal tutors, English language support, study skills workshops.
Wellbeing & Mental Health: Free counselling, student support officers, 24/7 helplines.
Financial Support: Advice on budgeting, scholarships, and part-time work.
Career Services: CV building, internships, and graduate job fairs.

🎉 Life in Dundee for International Students

Dundee is Scotland’s student capital, with over 20% of its population made up of students.

✅ Student-Friendly City

Compact and walkable city
Affordable rents compared to Edinburgh or Glasgow
Warm and welcoming community

✅ Things to Do

Visit V&A Dundee Museum and McManus Galleries
Explore Dundee’s waterfront and Broughty Ferry beach
Nightlife at Perth Road pubs and clubs
Hiking, cycling, and outdoor trips to the Highlands

✅ International Community

Abertay has students from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Societies like the International Society help build friendships.

💼 Part-Time Jobs & Work Opportunities

International students can work part-time in the UK (up to 20 hours per week during term-time).

Popular student jobs in Dundee:

Café and restaurant staff
Retail and supermarkets
On-campus roles (student ambassadors, library assistants)

👉 Minimum wage in 2025: Around £11/hour, meaning students can earn ~£200–£300/month to help with living costs.

🌍 Graduate Opportunities

Abertay graduates are highly employable. International students often stay in the UK for postgraduate work via the Graduate Route Visa.

Popular fields for Abertay graduates:

Computer Games & Creative Arts (Ubisoft, Rockstar Games, Sony)
Cybersecurity (IBM, Deloitte, Government agencies)
Life Sciences & Biomedical roles (NHS, Pharma companies)
Business & Management positions worldwide

🛠️ Practical Tips for International Students

Apply Early: Secure admission, visa, and accommodation well in advance.
Open a UK Bank Account: Essential for paying rent and receiving wages.
Healthcare: International students in the UK pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), giving access to NHS services.
Bring Documents: Passport, CAS, visa, transcripts, and financial proof.
Join Societies: Helps with networking and making friends quickly.

🏁 Conclusion

Abertay University offers international students the perfect balance of academic excellence, affordability, and support. From pioneering courses in games and cybersecurity to accredited programs in business and sciences, the university prepares students for global careers.

Living in Dundee means enjoying one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, while also benefiting from a vibrant social scene and supportive international community.

With strong admissions guidance, scholarships, arrival support, and career opportunities, Abertay University in 2025 is an outstanding choice for international students seeking both quality education and a memorable student experience.

❓ FAQs about Abertay University for International Students

What are the English language requirements for Abertay University?

👉 Abertay University typically requires an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5, or equivalent scores from tests like TOEFL iBT or PTE.

How much are tuition fees for international students at Abertay University?

👉 Undergraduate fees are approximately £14,000 – £16,000 per year, and postgraduate fees are around £15,000 – £17,000 per year.

Does Abertay University offer scholarships for international students?

👉 Yes, Abertay offers the Abertay International Scholarship (£3,000 – £5,000) and country-specific awards. External funding options like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are also available.

Can international students work part-time while studying at Abertay University?

👉 Yes, international students on a Student Route Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays.

What support services are available for international students at Abertay?

👉 Abertay provides visa and immigration advice, academic support, wellbeing and mental health services, financial support, and career services.

👉 Have you studied at Abertay as an international student or have tips for new arrivals? Share your experience below!

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