International Study Centre

Frequently asked questions

If you have questions about joining the International Study Centre at the University of Aberdeen, this page should provide all the information you need. 

Programmes

There is a choice of pathway programmes available at the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Each pathway allows you to progress on to a wide range of degrees at the University. Our programmes include:

Undergraduate Foundation Programme

The Undergraduate Foundation Programme is equivalent to the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at Aberdeen. You will spend the first year of your degree at the International Study Centre, developing the academic, study and language skills needed to succeed as a student at a UK university. After achieving the required grades, you will transition to the final three years of your degree at the University (some exceptions apply). We offer this programme in the following subject routes:

International Year Two

Equivalent to the second year of your undergraduate degree, the International Year Two allows you to complete your degree at a Scottish university in three years. Your time at the International Study Centre will be used to build upon your academic, study and English language skills before progressing to the University.

This pathway is available in the following subject routes:

Pre-Masters Programme

Spend twelve weeks with us at the International Study Centre and build upon the knowledge you learnt during your undergraduate degree in your home country. The Pre-Masters Programme is a great way to adapt to a new education system before progressing on to your Masters degree at Aberdeen. We offer this pathway in the following subject routes:

English Language Preparation Online

For students who need help improving their IELTS level before beginning our Pre-Masters Programme, we offer English Language Preparation Online. Find out more here.

Depending on your chosen programme, we have a variety of English language and academic entry requirements available. You can find out which entry requirements you’ll need to achieve depending on if you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student.

Postgraduate pathway students are also able to study our Online English Preparation course to improve your language skills before starting your Pre-Masters programme.

Our expert teachers will deliver face-to-face teaching, supported by an online hub and other online resources. At the International Study Centre, you can expect classes of no more than 25 students. You will be assigned a Personal Tutor who is there to support you every step of the way to help you to stay on track to progress to the University.

We offer a free online preparation course, Prepare for Success, to help you gain a head-start before you start your academic programme.

Fees

Your fees will differ depending on what level of study you’re seeking. You can find out more about the tuition fees and accommodation costs on our fees page.

We also offer scholarships, which are available for most of our pathway programmes.

Your accommodation fees will differ depending on the length of your stay and the type of residence you choose — you can find out more about our accommodation options on our website.

Accommodation

You can experience the best of student living in studio or en-suite student accommodation at Pittodrie Street or Mealmarket Exchange. These accommodation options are perfectly located and surrounded by everything you will need whilst studying in Aberdeen.

Once you have accepted your offer of a place and paid your confirmation payment, you will be provided with details on how to book your accommodation.

Enhanced Induction

The 3-week Enhanced Induction programme is designed to help you settle into your new home in the UK before commencing your main pathway programme in January. The Enhanced Induction focuses on three key areas that will help you succeed on your academic programme: language, life and learning skills.

Find out more about what to expect here.

There are no additional tuition fees to pay. However, there will be additional costs to consider, as expected with being in the UK for a longer period including living costs and accommodation. You can request accommodation on your application form, our Central Student Support Team will contact you directly about the options available.

No, this will be available face-to-face only. You must be in the UK ready to start the Enhanced Induction on the first day of the semester.

Visas

You may need a Student visa to study in the UK. We offer more detailed information about the visa process here.

Once you have applied to study at the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre and have received and accepted your offer, you can confirm your place by paying your deposit and Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) payment. Once you receive your CAS, you can start the visa application process online.

You can apply for your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies up to six months before the start date of your programme (or three months if already in the UK). You can then apply for your visa. Make sure to start your application early, so there is enough time for it to be processed before you need to travel to the UK.

Where to find us

Join us in Aberdeen

The International Study Centre is located in the heart of the University of Aberdeen campus. You can find us at:

University of Aberdeen International Study Centre
Regent Building
Regent Walk
King’s College
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX

Join our community

By visiting us on Facebook and Instagram you can meet your future classmates and ask questions. You can also check out our YouTube channel to find out more about life in Aberdeen.

Still have questions?

Use our online enquiry form to ask us any other questions you may have about the International Study Centre and our pathway programmes.

Enquire now