Mastering Your Abertay University Open Day: Expert Tips
Your ultimate guide to planning a campus visit, booking open day dates, and finding out what makes Abertay special.
Updated 3 min readAbertay University
Attending an Abertay University open day is one of the most exciting and crucial steps in your journey to higher education. Located in the vibrant heart of Dundee, Scotland, Abertay is globally renowned for its pioneering computer games education, cybersecurity programmes, and strong industry links. Whether you are aiming for a creative tech career or a life-changing degree in business, social science, or forensic science, experiencing the campus in person will give you an invaluable taste of student life.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you prepare for your campus visit, navigate the open day dates, explore alternatives like the virtual tour, and compile a winning list of questions to ask staff and current undergraduates.
Why You Must Attend an Abertay University Open Day
While prospectuses and websites offer a wealth of information, nothing compares to walking through the Bell Street campus doors. An Abertay University open day serves as your exclusive window into what it truly feels like to live, study, and socialize in Dundee. You will have the opportunity to:
- Tour cutting-edge facilities, including the world-class PlayStation Lab and state-of-the-art cybersecurity suites.
- Chat face-to-face with academic staff who lead your chosen degree course.
- Speak with current students about accommodation, nightlife, and academic workloads.
- Understand entry requirements, funding opportunities, and scholarship options.
Planning Your Campus Visit: Step-by-Step
To make the absolute most of your day, a little preparation goes a long way. Treat your trip as both an exploratory mission and an interview preparation session.
Open Day Preparation Checklist
- Register Early: Secure your spot as soon as the latest open day dates are released, as popular subject talks fill up fast.
- Plan Your Travel: Dundee is well-connected by rail and road. Check train times or parking options ahead of schedule.
- Download the App or Map: Familiarize yourself with the campus layout so you don't waste precious time getting lost between buildings.
- Prioritize Your Schedule: Highlight the specific course talks and campus tours you cannot afford to miss.
Essential Questions to Ask on the Day
Maximizing your time means asking targeted questions. Don't be shy—the academic and support staff are there specifically to help prospective students make informed decisions.
Top Questions to Ask at Abertay
- What percentage of the course is assessed through practical coursework versus traditional exams?
- Are there opportunities for industry placements, live client briefs, or study abroad semesters?
- What kind of career support and graduate employability schemes are available after graduation?
- How does the university support students with mental health, budgeting, and academic writing?
Exploring Dundee: Student Life Beyond the Campus
Your university experience is just as much about the city you live in as it is about the lectures you attend. Dundee is a thriving, compact, and affordable student city nestled on the east coast of Scotland. It boasts a brilliant cultural scene, home to the V&A Dundee, fantastic music venues, and affordable living costs compared to major hubs like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
To help you budget for your move, here is a quick overview of estimated monthly student expenses in Dundee:
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (Shared Accommodation) |
|---|---|
| University-managed or Private Rent | £450 - £600 |
| Utilities & Internet (if not included) | £50 - £80 |
| Groceries & Household Supplies | £150 - £200 |
| Transport & Local Travel | £40 - £60 |
| Socializing & Leisure | £80 - £120 |
Can’t Make It? Make the Most of the Virtual Tour
If scheduling conflicts or distance prevent you from attending an in-person prospective student event, do not worry. Abertay University offers an immersive virtual tour that allows you to explore lecture halls, the library, student accommodation, and specialized labs from the comfort of your couch. While it cannot fully replace the vibrant energy of an on-campus visit, it is a fantastic second-best option to help you visualize your future student life.
Ultimately, whether you attend physically or virtually, taking the time to engage with Abertay University prior to submitting your UCAS application will give you the confidence and clarity you need to take your next big academic leap.