# Study in Aberdeen — universities, cost of living and student life

> Aberdeen is a north-east Scottish city with two universities and strong links to the energy industry.

Aberdeen is a city on the north-east coast of Scotland, home to the University of Aberdeen (ancient and research-intensive) and Robert Gordon University. It is closely linked to the energy industry, has a relatively affordable cost of living and a compact, safe feel. Scottish undergraduate degrees usually take four years. Confirm visa and cost figures on GOV.UK and university pages.

## Quick facts
- **Universities:** University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University
- **Cost level:** Affordable — well below London
- **Note:** Scottish degrees usually 4 years

## Key takeaways
- Home to the University of Aberdeen (ancient, research-intensive) and Robert Gordon University.
- A historic energy-industry hub with strong engineering and energy links.
- Relatively affordable living costs, well below London.
- Scottish undergraduate degrees usually take four years.

## Why study in Aberdeen
Aberdeen, the "Granite City" on Scotland's north-east coast, pairs academic heritage with strong industry links. The University of Aberdeen is one of the UK's ancient universities, research-intensive and especially strong in medicine, law and energy-related sciences, while Robert Gordon University has an applied, professional focus with excellent graduate employability. The city's deep connection to the energy sector creates real opportunities, and the cost of living is relatively affordable. As a Scottish university city, most undergraduate degrees run for four years.

## What it costs
Aberdeen's living costs are relatively affordable and well below London, though it is worth remembering that Scottish degrees usually take four years, so budget for the extra year compared with a three-year English course. Study UK Now builds a realistic Aberdeen budget with you so there are no surprises on arrival.

## Frequently asked questions
### Is Aberdeen a good city for international students?
Yes — Aberdeen offers two strong universities, relatively affordable living and deep links to the energy industry, in a compact, safe city on Scotland's coast. It is a particularly good choice for students interested in energy, engineering, medicine or law. Remember Scottish degrees usually take four years.

### Which universities are in Aberdeen?
Aberdeen is home to the University of Aberdeen (one of the UK's ancient universities, research-intensive) and Robert Gordon University (applied and professional, with strong graduate employability). Each has its own strengths and entry requirements — Study UK Now helps you choose the right one for your subject, budget and goals.

## Sources
- [University of Aberdeen — international](https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/) — University of Aberdeen

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Verified: 2026-06-16