Planning to study at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen? Here's the 2025 cost of living breakdown — rent, food, transport, and lifestyle tips.
Located in Aberdeen, RGU is one of Scotland's most career-focused universities. Aberdeen is cheaper than London but pricier than small towns.
Robert Gordon University has built a strong reputation for producing highly employable graduates, with excellent industry connections and modern facilities. Aberdeen, known as the "Granite City," offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This comprehensive guide breaks down all the essential expenses for RGU students in 2025, helping you plan your budget effectively for life in Scotland's energy capital.
Aberdeen's accommodation market offers reasonable options for students, with RGU providing various housing choices to suit different budgets.
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| University Halls | £130 – £160 | £520 – £640 |
| Private Halls | £140 – £180 | £560 – £720 |
| Shared Flats | - | £400 – £550 |
Aberdeen offers good value for food shopping, with several supermarket chains and local markets providing affordable options for students.
| Food Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries | £110 – £150 |
| Eating Out | £8 – £12 per meal |
| Coffee | £2.50 – £3 |
Aberdeen is a compact city with good public transport links. Many RGU students find walking and cycling to be practical and cost-effective options.
| Transport Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Student Bus Pass (First Bus) | ~£50 |
| Walking & Cycling | Free (popular options) |
| Occasional Taxi | £10 – £20 |
RGU provides excellent library facilities and digital resources, with most courses offering good access to required materials.
| Study Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Books & Stationery | £20 – £30 |
| Printing & Course Materials | £5 – £10 |
| Software & Digital Resources | Often included in tuition fees |
Aberdeen offers a good range of entertainment options for students, from cultural attractions to outdoor activities, often at reasonable prices.
| Entertainment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cinema | £7 – £10 |
| Gym Membership | £20 – £35/month |
| Night Out | £20 – £30 |
| Cultural Activities | £5 – £15 |
| Monthly Entertainment Budget | £80 – £110 |
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £520 – £720 |
| Food | £110 – £150 |
| Transport | £50 |
| Study | £20 – £30 |
| Lifestyle | £80 – £110 |
| Total | £780 – £1,060 |
The cost of living for students at Robert Gordon University in 2025 averages between £780 – £1,060 per month, offering excellent value for a career-focused education in Scotland.
RGU's location in Aberdeen provides students with a unique opportunity to study in Scotland's energy capital while enjoying reasonable living costs. The university's strong industry connections and focus on employability make it an excellent investment in your future. With smart budgeting and taking advantage of Aberdeen's compact size and student-friendly atmosphere, RGU students can enjoy a high-quality university experience without breaking the bank.