St Andrews University Guide: Programs & Admissions

Located in St Andrews, Scotland, the University of St Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and one of the most prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1410, the university has a rich history of academic excellence, attracting students from all over the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various programs offered by the University of St Andrews, its admissions process, and what makes it an attractive destination for students seeking a world-class education.
Academic Programs at the University of St Andrews

The University of St Andrews offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its four faculties: Arts, Divinity, Science, and Medicine. The university is renowned for its research-led teaching, providing students with the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and innovative ideas. Some of the most popular programs at the University of St Andrews include:
- Arts and Humanities: The university offers a broad range of programs in arts and humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and languages.
- Sciences: The university has a strong reputation for its science programs, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Medicine: The university's medical school is one of the oldest in the UK, offering programs in medicine, nursing, and health sciences.
- Business: The university's business school offers a range of programs, including management, economics, and finance.
Undergraduate Programs
The University of St Andrews offers a variety of undergraduate programs, including:
Program | Duration | Entry Requirements |
---|---|---|
MA (Hons) English | 4 years | AABB at Advanced Higher, including English |
BSc (Hons) Biology | 4 years | AABB at Advanced Higher, including biology and chemistry |
MBChB Medicine | 5 years | AAA at A-level, including chemistry and biology |

Undergraduate programs at the University of St Andrews are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education, combining academic rigor with practical skills and experiences. The university's undergraduate programs are typically four years in duration, with the exception of the MBChB Medicine program, which is five years.
Postgraduate Programs
The University of St Andrews also offers a range of postgraduate programs, including:
- Master's degrees: The university offers a variety of master's degrees, including MSc, MA, and MPhil programs.
- PhD programs: The university offers PhD programs in a range of subjects, including arts, humanities, sciences, and medicine.
Postgraduate programs at the University of St Andrews are designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen field. The university's postgraduate programs are typically one to three years in duration, depending on the program and mode of study.
Admissions Process at the University of St Andrews

The admissions process at the University of St Andrews is competitive, with the university seeking students who demonstrate academic excellence, a passion for learning, and a commitment to their chosen field. The admissions process typically involves the following stages:
- Application: Students must submit an application through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) or the university's online application portal.
- Academic qualifications: Students must meet the academic qualifications for their chosen program, including grades, subjects, and English language proficiency.
- Personal statement: Students must submit a personal statement, outlining their academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying to the university.
- References: Students must provide references from academic or professional referees, who can comment on their academic ability and potential.
- Interviews: Some programs may require an interview, either in person or via video conferencing, to assess the student's knowledge, skills, and motivation.
The university's admissions team assesses each application on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the student's academic qualifications, personal statement, references, and interview performance (if applicable).
International Students
The University of St Andrews welcomes international students from all over the world, offering a range of programs and services to support their academic and personal needs. International students must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements, which vary depending on the program and country of origin.
Country | English Language Proficiency |
---|---|
UK and Ireland | GCSE English language at grade C or above |
USA and Canada | High school diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 |
Other countries | IELTS at 7.0 or above, or TOEFL at 100 or above |
International students must also meet the university's academic qualifications and admissions requirements, which vary depending on the program and country of origin.
What are the tuition fees at the University of St Andrews?
+The tuition fees at the University of St Andrews vary depending on the program and student status. For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees for 2022-2023 are £9,250 for Scottish and EU students, and £26,750 for international students. For postgraduate programs, the tuition fees range from £7,500 to £24,000, depending on the program and student status.
What are the entry requirements for the University of St Andrews?
+The entry requirements for the University of St Andrews vary depending on the program and student status. For undergraduate programs, the typical entry requirements are AABB at Advanced Higher, including relevant subjects. For postgraduate programs, the typical entry requirements are a good honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant subject.
Can I apply for a scholarship at the University of St Andrews?
+Yes, the University of St Andrews offers a range of scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students, based on academic excellence and potential. The university also offers scholarships to international students, including the Commonwealth Scholarship and the St Andrews Scholarship.