Overview
Aberdeen is Scotland's third-largest city and known as the Granite City for its distinctive grey stone architecture. Home to the University of Aberdeen (founded 1495) and Robert Gordon University, the city has strong ties to the energy sector and offers excellent STEM programmes. Living costs are moderate, and the city's compact size makes it easy to navigate. The surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside is spectacular, and Aberdeen's location provides a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
Universities in Aberdeen
Student Neighbourhoods
Old Aberdeen is the historic university quarter with cobbled streets and 15th-century buildings — the University of Aberdeen campus is here. The city centre has Union Street as the main commercial strip. Rosemount has independent shops and cafés. The Beach area has a promenade and amusements.
Getting Around
Aberdeen station connects to Edinburgh (2 hrs 30 min), Glasgow (2 hrs 40 min), and Inverness (2 hrs 10 min). Local buses are run by First Bus. Aberdeen International Airport has flights to London, Amsterdam, and seasonal European destinations. The city is compact and walkable. Ferry services to Shetland and Orkney depart from the harbour.
Student Life in Aberdeen
Aberdeen is known as the Granite City — the silver-grey architecture is striking, especially in sunshine. The student community is close-knit and international, with a strong oil and gas industry connection. Belmont Street is the cultural strip with bars, restaurants, and live music. The Cairngorms National Park and Aberdeenshire castles are easy day trips.
Cost of Living
- Monthly Rent (student)
- £500–£750/mo
- Groceries
- £150 – £250/mo
- Transport Pass
- £80 – £130/mo
- Going Out (per night)
- £20 – £60
- Estimated Total
- £750 – £1,190/mo
Rent in other currencies
🇨🇦 CAD: $860 – $1,290/mo
🇺🇸 USD: $635 – $953/mo
Approximate. Exchange rates vary.