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Posted April 23, 2025

Aberdeen – Student City Guide

When it comes to the best student cities, Aberdeen is certainly up there. In fact, this Scottish city ranked 14th in a recent rundown of the best student cities in the UK. For those in search of world-class education, excellent opportunities and an exciting life outside the classroom, Aberdeen ticks all the right boxes. And it shows, with the National Student Survey (NSS) ranking the University of Aberdeen second in Scotland for overall student satisfaction. So, why are people studying in Aberdeen so pleased with themselves?

Read on to discover what makes Aberdeen a great place to study, live and thrive postgraduate.

Study in Aberdeen

Whether choosing a postgraduate course at the University of Aberdeen or Robert Gordon University, you’re guaranteed academic opportunities aplenty.

The University of Aberdeen is particularly prestigious, with the institution ranking consistently in the world top 200 and the UK top 15. It’s a popular choice for domestic and international students, with its 15,000-strong student population consisting of individuals from some 130 different countries.

Work in Aberdeen

From the part-time work that’s essential to many students continuing their postgraduate studies to the employment opportunities after graduation that put the skills you learnt in the classroom to the test, Aberdeen has it all!

There are lots of opportunities to find part-time, casual and vacation work in and around Aberdeen, with positions in tutoring, care, administration, marketing, advertising, PR, research, retail and hospitality ensuring something for everyone. Strike the right balance between your studies and work to ensure the best of both worlds, and gain those transferable skills that are certain to come in handy post-graduation.

Pursuing your chosen career path is another thing that is facilitated by the University of Aberdeen. The institution is on hand to deliver essential support to students looking to source work experience and take advantage of graduate opportunities. The university also regularly hosts employer-led events – such as workshops, presentations and fairs – to connect their postgrads with the right people.

Live in Aberdeen

More great news for postgraduates – Aberdeen was recently named Scotland’s most affordable city, while QS Student Cities 2025 placed Aberdeen fourth in the UK for affordability due to the generally lower cost of living. According to these findings from Robert Gordon University, you can expect to pay between £1,157 and £1,480 per month for rent, food, utilities, personal care and study materials (such as stationery, printing, photocopying and textbooks).

Aberdeen is home to several neighbourhoods, which vary in terms of affordability. Postgraduates looking for an authentic and convenient experience however should take this advice from loc8me:

“Just northwest of the city centre lies Rosemount, a quaint neighbourhood known for its granite houses, tree-lined streets, and friendly community. Rosemount offers a laid-back vibe compared to the bustling city centre, ideal for students who want a more relaxed residential experience without sacrificing convenience. Though not right next to either university campus, Rosemount is close enough to both that students can enjoy a short bus ride or a pleasant walk to reach their classes.”

Wherever you choose to reside during your postgraduate studies, the city of Aberdeen offers lots to explore, including a vibrant nightlife, historic landscape, active lifestyle, rich culture and uninhibited access to the great outdoors.

Fallen in love with Aberdeen? Explore the postgraduate programs that put you at the heart of the Granite City here at Postgrad.

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