Abertay University Scholarships for International Students: Dundee Funding Guide
Secure merit scholarships, tuition fee waivers, and financial aid to study at Scotland's leading modern university.
Updated 5 min readAbertay University
Introduction: Why Choose Abertay University?
Nestled in the heart of Dundee, Scotland, Abertay University is internationally renowned for its pioneering programs in computer games education, ethical hacking, and modern sciences. As Scotland's leading modern university, it offers an exceptionally welcoming environment for learners from all over the world. However, transitioning to a new country for higher education comes with financial considerations. Navigating tuition fees, living expenses, and currency conversions can seem daunting.
Fortunately, there are various Abertay University scholarships for international students designed to make your educational dreams affordable. From merit scholarships to tuition fee waiver programs, this guide outlines the primary funding options, bursaries, and financial aid packages available to support your academic journey in Dundee.
"Receiving the Abertay International Scholarship took a massive weight off my family's shoulders. It allowed me to focus entirely on my Game Design degree and enjoy life in Dundee without constant financial stress." - Priya Sharma, IndiaThe Flagship Abertay International Scholarship
The cornerstone of institutional funding at Abertay is the Abertay International Scholarship. This award is specifically designed to recognize academic excellence and ease the transition for self-funding students from outside the UK.
Key Details and Award Values
This scholarship is awarded as a tuition fee waiver, meaning the financial support is directly deducted from your annual tuition fees rather than paid to you in cash. This is one of the most reliable funding options for international applicants.
- Undergraduate Students: Up to £3,000 per year of study. Over a standard four-year Scottish Honours degree, this can total up to £12,000 in savings.
- Postgraduate Taught Students: A one-off award of up to £3,000 for a one-year Master's program.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for this merit scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be classified as an international (overseas) fee-paying student by Abertay University.
- Hold an equivalent of a UK 2:1 upper-second-class Honours degree (for postgraduate applicants) or high-grade high school qualifications (for undergraduate applicants).
- Be self-funding (students sponsored by their home governments or external organizations are generally ineligible).
- Have received an offer of admission to a full-time degree program at Abertay.
External Funding Options for International Students
If you require more comprehensive financial aid, Abertay University supports several prestigious external scholarship schemes. These programs often provide full funding, including tuition fees, living allowances, and flights.
1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship program, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It target future leaders and influencers. A Chevening award covers full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, economy class return airfares to the UK, and additional grants to cover essential expenditure.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
These are aimed at students from developing Commonwealth countries who want to pursue Master's or PhD studies in the UK. The selection process is highly competitive and is based heavily on academic merit and your potential to contribute to your home country's development upon graduation.
3. Great Scholarships
In partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, Abertay University frequently participates in the GREAT Scholarship scheme. These awards offer minimum funding of £10,000 towards tuition fees for students from specific countries (such as China, India, Indonesia, or Kenya) pursuing one-year postgraduate courses.
Alumni Discounts and Tuition Fee Waivers
Abertay is committed to supporting lifelong learning and offers dedicated incentives for returning students. If you complete your undergraduate degree at Abertay and decide to stay on for a postgraduate qualification, you may be eligible for the Alumni Discount Scheme.
This scheme typically provides a 20% tuition fee waiver on postgraduate taught courses. This discount can be combined with other merit scholarships under specific conditions, drastically reducing the overall cost of your postgraduate education.
Living Costs in Dundee: A Realistic Student Budget
Dundee is widely recognized as one of the most affordable student cities in the UK. While securing financial aid is incredibly helpful, understanding your day-to-day living costs is essential for accurate financial planning. Below is a realistic estimation of weekly living expenses for an international student living in Dundee:
| Expense Category | Average Weekly Cost (Low-End) | Average Weekly Cost (High-End) | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Accommodation / Private Rent | £115 | £175 | Opt for shared flats or uni halls to save on utility bills. |
| Food and Groceries | £35 | £55 | Shop at Lidl or Aldi near the Dundee city center. |
| Local Transport | £0 | £15 | Dundee is highly walkable; Abertay campus is in the heart of town. |
| Social & Leisure Activities | £25 | £60 | Utilize student discounts via UNiDAYS and Totum. |
| Study Materials & Printing | £5 | £10 | Use the digital resources at the Bernard King Library. |
| Total Weekly Budget | £180 | £315 | Keep track of outgoings using budgeting apps. |
Bursaries and Emergency Financial Aid
While scholarships are usually awarded prior to enrollment based on merit, bursaries and emergency financial aid are typically needs-based and intended to support students who encounter unexpected financial difficulties during their studies.
Abertay University manages several hardship funds and discretionary trusts. If you face sudden financial distress—due to exchange rate fluctuations, family emergencies, or unexpected living cost rises—the Student Funding Team can offer guidance and potential emergency grants. International students are advised to have a robust financial plan in place, as these hardship bursaries are limited and cannot be used to pay tuition fees.
Steps to Secure Your Funding: A Checklist for International Students
- Apply Early: Submit your course application to Abertay as early as possible. Most merit scholarships are assessed during the offer stage.
- Check Country-Specific Options: Visit the British Council website in your home country to look for local grants and Commonwealth opportunities.
- Prepare Your Documents: Keep your academic transcripts, reference letters, and personal statement up to date to easily apply for external programs like Chevening.
- Understand the T&Cs: Confirm if your scholarship is a one-off award or renewable each academic year.
- Plan Your Budget: Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your remaining tuition fees and living costs to satisfy UK visa requirements.
Conclusion
Studying at Abertay University is an investment in a highly career-focused, innovative education. By taking advantage of Abertay University scholarships for international students, maximizing tuition fee waivers, and planning an affordable lifestyle in Dundee, you can significantly ease your financial burden. Start your preparations early, apply to your chosen course, and pave your way to a brilliant academic future in Scotland.