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    Study in Aberdeen

    City guide

    Borrowing a little from various Scottish cities, the country's third largest city has history, culture, countryside, and nightlife to please everyone.

    Despite being a fairly small city, Aberdeen has a great mix of cultural, natural, and urban spaces. In one day, you could venture out into the nearby countryside to visit a castle, go dolphin-watching at the beach, eat at an award-winning local cafe, and meet your friends for a drink in one of the many bars on Belmont Street – the hub of most of the city's nightlife. There is something for everyone, it is completely accessible for students, and complemented by the unique local culture and dialect. (Second year student, University of Aberdeen)

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    • Adam

      Coventry University
      Sports Coaching BSc
      Hi there👋, My name is Adam and I am currently a first year Sports Coaching student and a lifelong Coventry habitant. Sports has been a massive part of my life which has lead me to studying the Sports Coaching Bachelor Degree here at Coventry. I am looking to pursue a career within Sport Coaching as I look to teach and coach others the amazing thing that is sport🤩. Feel free to ask me questions about the Sports Coaching Course and elements of University life😃 ⚽️🏀🎾🏓🏏

    • Abdul Rashid

      University of Aberdeen
      Biotechnology, Bioinformatics and Bio-business MSc
      My current career plan is to delve deep into the core of bioinformatics and try as much as possible to make it easy for future prospects in that field of study.

    • Abbey

      Leeds Trinity University
      Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)
      I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

    • Abigail

      City St George's, University of London
      Politics BSc (Hons)
      Hi, my name is Abigail and I am a 2nd year Politics undergraduate, who wants to become a lawyer in common law. I am happy to answer questions regarding university, a career in law, etc! ❤️

    • Abigail

      University of Lincoln
      Dance - BA (Hons)
      Hi, I'm Abi and I'm a third-year BA (Hons) Dance Student. I'm from Suffolk. I started dancing from the age of 3 in Ballet, Modern and Tap and then also started training in Contemporary, Irish and Ballroom & Latin dance before completing both GCSE & A-level Dance. I'm now continuing my passion here at UOL and hope to continue this into a professional career!

    • Abdul

      University of Lincoln
      Architecture - BA (Hons)
      “Hi! Feel free to ask me any questions about the courses here in Lincoln and also about the city itself. I am more than happy to help you with any questions you might have.”

    • Abbie

      Leeds Trinity University
      Primary Education (Early Years 3-7) with QTS BA (Hons)
      Hi I’m Abbie 🫶🏻. I am a primary education student here at Leeds trinity completing my first year currently. I live at home and commute in for my lectures. I am a course representative so look very closely into student feedback. I am also the mental health officer for Leeds trinity and look forward to building campaigns to help those at trinity! I was very nervous joining university but realised very quickly it’s like family where everyone is supportive and tries to help at any opportunity. The campus is beautiful and I love to study in lots of different spaces to change up the scenery every now and again! I have a dog walking business to satisfy my love of animals and am also a student ambassador for university. I work part time in a pub not far from the university and love to go running in my spare time to clear my mind! I came from sixth form to university and knew what course I wanted to do. I’m here to answer all of your questions about life at university hoping to give an insight on the student life and what to expect!

    • Abigail

      Bournemouth University
      BA (Hons) Film
      Hi, I'm Abigail and I'm a third-year Film student! I'd be very happy to answer anything about filmmaking and media related questions at Bournemouth University, and what it’s like to move out for the first time and settle into a new city! :))

    • Aayan

      City St George's, University of London
      Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
      I did my Foundation year from INTO City, University of London. Currently doing BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science. I plan to work in Data / AI Field, I have strong interest in Trading and Content Creation 😊.

    • Abdullah

      Liverpool John Moores University
      Computer Science, BSc (Hons)
      Currently in my second year, I’m focused on making the most of my degree and building a strong foundation in my field. After completing my bachelor’s, my plan is to pursue a master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. I’m passionate about using AI to tackle real-world challenges, and eventually, I’d love to work in a tech company that’s leading the way in innovation. My vision is to be part of projects that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve—I’m excited about what the future holds!

    • Adeola Priscillia

      Coventry University
      MSc International Business Management
      I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

    • Adrianna

      University of the Arts London
      Public Relations
      ✨Public Relations student passionate about creative storytelling & making an impact through strategic marketing. 📈Obsessed with digital analytics, media research 🔍, and fostering real connections within the media world! 🤝 👩‍🎓Active as a Peer Mentor, Senior Student Ambassador, and Media School Rep – always here to help and share my journey! 🌟 💡 Let’s chat all things PR, media, and beyond!

    • Adrianna

      Bangor University
      Marine Biology
      Hi, I'm Adrianna. I'm from North West England. I decided I wanted to do marine biology, when someone did an online talk at my college all about the marine environment and biology. My main hobbies include sewing; gaming; watching films and series; and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite games are Animal Crossing; Slime Rancher; and Stardew Valley. Some of my favorite movies/series are: How to Train Your Dragon; Vampire Diaries; Grey's Anatomy; and Disney movies.

    • Advika

      University of Glasgow
      Common Law [LLB]
      Hey there ! I am Advika from India🇮🇳 and I am a third year Common Law student. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, studies, student life, or anything else. Please feel free to chat 😊

    • Abby

      Swansea University
      Sport and Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
      I am a keen swimmer and am part of the University Swim team and have competed in the BUSL swim league as well as Welsh Varsity representing the university. The swim team is comprised of a range of abilities. I love what I study and am passionate about Sport Psychology and hope to pursue it as a Masters when I graduate. I am in my second year of the degree course and am loving it so far, so any questions about my course or the swim team are more than welcome.

    • Accalia

      University of Sussex
      Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)
      I would love to be engaged in various sectors specifically Media, Law and International Business, My end goal is to be an international consultant for Caribbean small businesses.

    • Aditya

      University of Glasgow
      Medicine [MBChB]
      Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)

    • Abigail

      University of Essex
      Criminology
      Hello! My name is Abi, and I'm currently in my third year doing Criminology with Counselling Skills. I aspire to go into the police force to be a detective! I love helping others and cooking. Alongside my degree, I am doing some content creation and photography as a fun hobby as I also have a passion for both of those things.

    • Aaliyah

      University of Hertfordshire
      Animation, film, games and creative media
      Hi, I'm Aaliyah! I am a final-year Games Art student and want to work hard to hone my skills and improve as a character artist! I am also a producer so if you want to talk about that specialism within Games and VFX then feel free to ask. You might be feeling a bit worried or uneasy about what there is and what the course entails but I am here to answer all your questions. No matter how big the question or how small :) Whilst I'm not in the other animation pathways (3D/VFX, 2D animation, Comic & Concept Art) I can always give my knowledge in those areas too. Just pop a message over! Very excited to talk about the courses with you :D

    • Aditi

      University College Birmingham
      Finance and Accounting
      I am Aditi Ghevade, from the city of Mumbai, India. Currently pursuing my postgraduate studies in Finance and Accounting, I find immense joy in delving into the intricacies of financial systems and exploring the world of numbers. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and even French, my multicultural and multilingual background has equipped me with a versatile skill set.

    What Aberdeen's famous for...

    The Silver City

    If you see Aberdeen's buildings sparkling, your eyes aren't deceiving you. The city is built from locally-quarried granite that’s known to do so when the sun hits it.

    Aberdeen city view

    Aberdeen nightlife, according to students

    The nightlife is really good, especially for freshers and sport clubs. Underground, Tunnels, Prohibition, and Paramount are really popular. Students who visit Aberdeen say they have one of their best nights out here. Because most clubs are centred around one place, it feels very safe as you constantly see students everywhere. The main Street is Union Street, and you also have loads of food places open late at night, and a taxi rank located less than a three-min walk from most clubs/pubs. (Second year student, University of Aberdeen)

    Vibrant sea life

    You might not expect bottlenose dolphins or basking sharks in Scotland, but both can be spotted from Aberdeen's seafront. 

    Dolphins

    Aberdeen nightlife, according to students

    For something a little more reserved, with specially made whiskey cocktails, The Tippling House is perfect for a sophisticated night out. A little more crazy, with amazing tunes and cheap drinks, would be Underground. It’s also a hive for [the LGBT community]. (Second year student, Robert Gordon University)

    Epic scenery

    Twice the size of the Lake District, the Cairngorms National Park offers stunning mountains, waterfalls, lochs, and much more.

    Cairngorns Park

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    Student life in Aberdeen

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Low on cash

    Aberdeen’s Art Gallery recently reopened after a revamp which cost millions – it truly is stunning! All of the museums and galleries are free in Aberdeen – all they ask for is an optional donation. (Third year student, University of Aberdeen)

    Treat yourself

    Amarone is a fabulously authentic Italian restaurant on Union Street, away from the chain restaurants of Union Square – bonus points since it doubles as an upmarket cocktail bar too! (Second year student, University of Aberdeen)

    Friday night out

    There are loads of pubs. The Bobbin is a pub that students like to go to, as it is located right next to the university.  Tunnels is a little edgier. (Second year student, University of Aberdeen)

    Sunday chilling

    The paths that line the River Don and the River Dee are teeming with wildlife, and a pretty spot for your next Instagram pic. Duthie Park is worth the trek through town. (Second year student, University of Aberdeen)

    When family visit

    The castles around Aberdeen are always fantastic tourist spots. Newburgh Seal Beach, a little north of Aberdeen, makes for a great day trip. (Robert Gordon University student)

    Feeling cultural

    The Lemon Tree is a great venue for talks, comedy events, and other little quirky nights. His Majesty’s Theatre always puts on a great panto at Christmas too! (Second year student, SRUC Aberdeen)

    Catch up with mates

    Books and Beans is a great cafe, and a second-hand book store, which creates a lovely atmosphere. Most of the cafes and bars on Belmont Street are relaxed during the day. (Second year student, Robert Gordon University)

    Grab a bite

    Grub is unreal. There's one near uni, and one in the city centre. They do filled wraps or paninis, and are amazing! I usually get a Kevin Bacon or a Hangover in a wrap. (Third year student, University of Aberdeen)

    Aberdeen in pictures

    View from the Art Gallery

    The view from the Gallery roof. (Sophie Clark, University of Aberdeen student)

    View from Aberdeen Art Gallery

    Outdoor events

    There are always events like this, whether just outside Aberdeen – this was at Crathes Castle – to horror [film] showings at Slains Castle, [and] Duthie Park. (Samantha Edgar, second year student at SRUC Aberdeen)

    Crathes Castle

    Living in Aberdeen, according to students

    Kittybrewster – I really like where I live. It's not too expensive, even though we're quite close to the centre (a 20-minute walk). We have multiple corner shops close by, as well as bigger supermarkets like Lidl, Morrisons, and B&M. There aren't really any restaurants or pubs close to here, but we have a chippy just a few roads down. It's also just next to campus, which is fantastic – it's just a ten-minute walk, not even. There are a lot of students around this [area], and neighbouring areas. I would definitely live here again. (Third year student, University of Aberdeen)

    The beach

    The ferris wheel located at the beach. I personally love visiting the beach, to unwind and to enjoy the sounds of the waves crashing on to shore. (Valerie Vasala, second year student at Robert Gordon University)

    Aberdeen ferris wheel

    Aberdeen open day

    Take advantage of the Aberdeen open day in September/October, to visit buildings that are not usually open to the public. Here's my boyfriend and I at the Confucius Institute. We we had so much fun with them that day. (Rossella, second year student at University of Aberdeen)

    Aberdeen University open day

    Living in Aberdeen, according to students

    I chose to live in Rosemount, as it’s central and a safe area. You sometimes have to be careful as to what areas to avoid in the city. For example, some parts of Torry are known to be dangerous. However, it does take me 40 minutes to get to the campus by bus or foot! So for RGU, I'd recommend Garthdee: it's a functional area, rural, not too far from the city, and the university is right there. I'm currently looking to move to Cults for my last year of uni, as it's near the cycle route and more rural. I'm a country girl at heart! (Third year student, Robert Gordon University)

    Living in Aberdeen

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • Kittybrewster
    • Rosemount
    • King Street

    Local transport

    • Weekly ticket: £18.60
    • First Group Student Week Ticket
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    The beachfront is a good place to park in town. It has free parking, a cinema, restaurants, and other activities. It's also only a ten-minute walk to the town centre, or a two-minute bus ride, and means you don't have to pay loads for parking. (Second year student, Robert Gordon University)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Aberdeen with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

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