Study abroad at Robert Gordon University

Learn more about studying at Robert Gordon University as an international student.

Robert Gordon University campus view
Robert Gordon University logo

Key facts

  • Type
    Private
  • Total programs
    91
  • QS Ranking
    951-1000

Study abroad at Robert Gordon University

Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a modern, industry-led university located in Aberdeen, Scotland. Its main campus is situated in Garthdee, along the banks of the River Dee, and features a navigable layout with all learning facilities in close proximity to each other. RGU offers a range of programs designed in partnership with employers, reflecting its commitment to providing relevant education.

Students at RGU can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across various fields, including computing, engineering, health sciences, business, law, and the arts. The university is particularly known for its strong focus on graduate employability and has gained a reputation for delivering industry-relevant education that meets the needs of today's employers. Many courses are designed with input from industry professionals, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with current job market demands.

A distinctive aspect of studying at RGU is the emphasis on practical experience through embedded courses that often include work placements. You may have the opportunity to apply your learning in real-world settings, gaining valuable insights and skills that enhance your academic journey. This hands-on approach is integrated into many programs, allowing you to build a professional profile while studying.

Illustration depicting a student navigating the journey of higher education. Elements include a diploma, graduation cap, magnifying glass with a puzzle piece, books, a "Hi!" speech bubble, and a university building in the background.

Why study at Robert Gordon University

Recognized funding opportunities: Robert Gordon University is approved by CONACyT, allowing fully funded students from Mexico to pursue postgraduate taught and research programs, making it a financially viable option for you.

Small class sizes: You will benefit from small and supportive classes, which provide a high level of guidance and support from expert lecturers, enhancing your learning experience.

Practical education focus: The university emphasizes real-world, practical education, preparing you for future careers by aligning coursework with the needs of today's employers.

Diverse international community: With over 18,000 students from 152 countries, you will join a vibrant and dynamic community, enriching your cultural experience and networking opportunities.

Location

Robert Gordon University

Robert Gordon University Garthdee House Garthdee Road Aberdeen AB10 7QB

Robert Gordon University is located in Aberdeen, Scotland, specifically situated in the city center. The campus is surrounded by a mix of residential areas and vibrant student quarters, with local cafes, shops, and markets nearby, providing a lively atmosphere for everyday life. You can easily reach various cultural venues, including the Aberdeen Art Gallery and His Majesty's Theatre, which are just a short walk away. Public transport options, including buses and the nearby Aberdeen Train Station, connect you to other parts of the city and beyond, facilitating easy exploration of the wider region. If you are considering accommodation, you can find options within a reasonable distance of the campus, making commuting straightforward.

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Scholarships at Robert Gordon University

  • Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

    Official page

    A US-government-funded award of up to $5,000 to help fund study-abroad or internship programmes, listed by RGU as available for eligible US students choosing to study at RGU. Open only to citizens of the United States who are undergraduates in good standing, receiving a Federal Pell Grant, and applying to or accepted onto a credit-bearing study-abroad or internship programme in a country with a Travel Advisory Level of 1 or 2 (the UK qualifies). Selection is based on a personal statement rather than an interview; roughly 40,000 awards are made annually across 150+ countries/programmes.

  • International Fund

    Official page

    A needs-based emergency support fund (amount varies by individual circumstances) to help current international and EU students at RGU who unexpectedly face financial difficulty after starting their course. Open to full-time, on-campus undergraduate and postgraduate students from over 80 listed countries who are classed as current international or EU students; it does not cover hardship caused by delayed sponsor payments or difficulty transferring money from home (an Emergency Loan Fund exists for that instead). Requires a completed RGU International Fund Application Form with supporting documentation, emailed to Student Finance; processing takes 4–6 weeks.

  • International Students Emergency Fund

    Official page

    Provided with support from the Scottish Government, this fund gives emergency financial help toward basic living costs (food, utilities, rent — not tuition fees) for international students facing hardship caused by global conflicts. Open to full-time or part-time undergraduate and postgraduate international students from over 80 listed countries (students from unlisted countries can still contact Student Finance to check eligibility), provided they have applied to the Home Office for leave or an extension of stay in the UK and have exhausted other funding sources. Requires a completed application form with supporting evidence (bank statements, proof of Home Office application); processing takes 4–6 weeks and applicants may be interviewed.

  • RGU International Student Discount for Undergraduate Students

    Official page

    Gives self-funding international undergraduate students a £2,000 discount per year on tuition fees for full-time, on-campus study. Open to applicants from all countries classed as international fee payers who meet standard entry requirements. No formal application is required — the discount is considered automatically during admissions and confirmed in the offer letter, with only one RGU award applied per student.

  • Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship

    Official page

    Covers the full first year's tuition fee for new full-time, on-campus undergraduate students. Open to applicants from all countries classed as international or EU fee payers, entering year 1 or year 2 of an undergraduate programme. Eligibility is merit-based on academic performance; awardees are expected to engage in extra-curricular activities and act as an ambassador for RGU. Only self-funding students qualify, and it is awarded automatically via the offer letter (no separate application in most cases).

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

Robert Gordon University provides fee information that can help students understand how study costs may be structured or may vary across options. Robert Gordon University encourages students to review official funding and financial-support information to confirm what cost guidance or support may be available.

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What is the cost of living near Robert Gordon University?

Category Cost  (in British Pound Sterling)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre£598
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre£551
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)£118
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)£37
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)£13Range: £9 to £30· UK average
Monthly public transport pass£92
Monthly grocery basket£147
Books and study supplies (monthly)£20
Coffee shop drink£3
Cinema or cultural event ticket£8
Gym membership£50

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced), numbeo.com (Crowdsourced) and savethestudent.org (Editorial estimate).

Visa requirements for Robert Gordon University

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at Robert Gordon University.

Life at Robert Gordon University

Support for international students

The Center for International Education provides support with admissions, visas, housing, and cultural adjustment.

The pre-arrival information page offers guidance on when to arrive, visa requirements, orientation, and induction for international students.

The welcome guide is designed to help new students with questions about support, resources, and services available at Robert Gordon University.

International students benefit from small class sizes, allowing for a high level of guidance and support from academic expert lecturers.

Illustration showing aspects of student life, including a student with a book and pencil, various books, a laptop, fast food, and iconic educational symbols like a graduation cap and a university building.

Facilities

  • Transport
    • Campus Bus Service
  • IT Support
    • Loan Laptops
    • Campus Wireless Connectivity
  • Library
    • Individual Study Rooms
  • Healthcare & Medical
    • Maternity Care
  • Food & Restaurants
    • Bars
  • Sports Facilities
    • Sport facilities
  • Fitness Centre
    • Spin Studio
  • Clubs & Organisations
    • Clubs & Organizations

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