Abertay University International Student Guide 2026
Admissions, Life & Support
Explore Abertay University’s 2026 International Student Guide — covering admissions, life in Dundee, visas, scholarships, and support services for global students.
Updated 4 min read
🎓 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 2026 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 (2026)
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 (2026)
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 2026: 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 2026 is an outstanding choice for international students seeking both quality education and a memorable student experience.