Quick Answer: Abertay University requires international students to have A-levels (BBB-CCC), IELTS 6.0 overall (5.5 in each band), and complete applications through UCAS by June 30, 2026. Tuition fees for international students are £15,000-£16,500 annually, with programs starting in September and January.

Abertay University, located in Dundee, Scotland, has established itself as a leading institution for technology, games development, and cybersecurity education. Ranked among the top modern universities in Scotland and holding a gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, Abertay offers innovative programs that align with industry demands. For international students seeking quality education in emerging fields, understanding the admission requirements is crucial for successful application.

This comprehensive guide covers everything international students need to know about Abertay University admission requirements for 2026 entry, including academic qualifications, English language requirements, application procedures, and essential deadlines.

Academic Entry Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate Programs

Abertay University welcomes international students from diverse educational backgrounds. The standard academic requirements vary by program level and country of origin:

A-Level Requirements:

• Most programs: BBB-CCC (112-96 UCAS points)
• Competitive programs (Computer Science, Cybersecurity): BBB or above
• Creative programs (Games Design, Digital Arts): BBC-CCC
• Business programs: BBC-BCC

International Qualifications Accepted:

• International Baccalaureate: 28-32 points
• Pakistani Higher Secondary Certificate: 60-75%
• Indian CBSE/ISC: 60-80%
• Nigerian WAEC: Credits in 5 subjects including English and Mathematics
• Bangladeshi Higher Secondary Certificate: GPA 3.0-4.0

Postgraduate Programs

Master's degree admission requirements include:

• Bachelor's degree with 2:2 or equivalent (55-60%)
• Relevant work experience may compensate for lower grades
• Portfolio required for creative programs
• GMAT/GRE not typically required

English Language Requirements

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through approved tests:

IELTS Academic Requirements:

• Overall: 6.0
• Each component: 5.5 minimum
• Some programs may require higher scores

Alternative English Tests:

• TOEFL iBT: 78 overall
• Pearson PTE Academic: 59 overall
• Cambridge English: 169 overall
• Duolingo English Test: 105 overall

English Language Exemptions:

• Students from majority English-speaking countries
• Previous degree taught in English
• Successful completion of pre-sessional English courses

Application Process and Deadlines

UCAS Application Process

All undergraduate applications must be submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service):

1. Create UCAS Account - Register on the UCAS website
2. Complete Application - Include personal statement, academic qualifications, and references
3. Submit Application - Pay £27 application fee for multiple choices
4. Track Progress - Monitor application status through UCAS Hub

Direct Applications for Postgraduate

Master's programs accept direct applications through the university portal:

• Complete online application form
• Upload supporting documents
• Pay £50 application fee
• Await admission decision (typically 2-4 weeks)

Key Deadlines for 2026 Entry

• September 2026 Start:

  • UCAS Deadline: June 30, 2026
  • International Applications: May 31, 2026
  • Postgraduate Applications: July 31, 2026

• January 2027 Start:

  • All Applications: October 31, 2026

Required Documents for Application

Essential Documents

Academic Transcripts:

• Official transcripts from all attended institutions
• English translations if documents are in other languages
• Certified copies accepted initially, originals required for enrollment

English Language Certificates:

• Valid test certificates (within 2 years)
• Official score reports sent directly from testing centers

Supporting Documents:

• Valid passport copy
• Personal statement (4,000 characters for UCAS)
• Academic references (2 for undergraduate, 1-2 for postgraduate)
• CV/Resume (postgraduate applications)
• Portfolio (creative programs)

Tuition Fees and Financial Information

2026 International Student Fees

Undergraduate Programs:

• Most programs: £15,000 per year
• Laboratory-based programs: £16,500 per year
• Clinical programs: Not applicable

Postgraduate Programs:

• Taught Master's: £16,000-£18,000
• Research degrees: £15,500-£16,500

Additional Costs

• Application fees: £27 (UCAS) or £50 (direct)
• Accommodation: £4,500-£6,500 per year
• Living expenses: £8,000-£10,000 per year
• Student visa: £363 plus healthcare surcharge

Program-Specific Requirements

Computer Science and Cybersecurity

As Abertay's flagship programs, these require:

• Strong mathematics background (A-level Mathematics preferred)
• IELTS 6.5 overall for Cybersecurity programs
• Demonstrated interest in technology through personal projects or experience

Games Development Programs

Abertay's world-renowned games programs require:

• Portfolio showcasing creative or technical skills
• Personal statement explaining passion for games industry
• No specific subject requirements, but mathematics helpful

Business and Management

Business programs welcome diverse backgrounds:

• No specific subject requirements
• Work experience advantageous for postgraduate programs
• Strong personal statement essential

Student Visa Requirements

International students need Student visa (formerly Tier 4) to study at Abertay:

Visa Application Requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from Abertay
• Financial evidence: £1,023 per month for living costs
• English language qualification
• Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
• Academic qualifications and transcripts

Financial Requirements:

• Tuition fees for first year
• £9,207 maintenance funds (living in Scotland outside London)
• Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days

Support Services for International Students

Abertay provides comprehensive support for international students:

Pre-Arrival Services:

• Virtual orientation sessions
• Accommodation assistance
• Airport pickup arrangements
• Pre-sessional English courses

Ongoing Support:

• International student advisor
• Academic skills workshops
• Career guidance and internship support
• Student societies and cultural events

When researching your options, you can explore UK universities to compare Abertay with other institutions and find the perfect match for your academic goals.

Conclusion

Abertay University offers excellent opportunities for international students, particularly in technology and creative fields. With clear admission requirements and strong support systems, the university provides a pathway to quality education and career success. Start your application early and ensure all documents meet the specified requirements for the best chance of acceptance.

Key Statistics

📊 95% of Abertay graduates are employed or in further study within 6 months of graduation (2025 data)

💰 International student tuition fees range from £15,000-£16,500 annually for 2026 entry

🎓 Abertay ranks #1 in Europe for computer games education according to Princeton Review 2025

📈 Over 100 different nationalities represented in Abertay's student body

⏰ Applications processed within 2-4 weeks with 85% acceptance rate for qualified international students

🏆 Gold rating in UK Teaching Excellence Framework with 90% student satisfaction rate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply to Abertay University as an international student?

International students apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs or directly through the university portal for postgraduate programs. You'll need to submit academic transcripts, English language certificates, personal statement, and references. The application deadline for September 2026 entry is June 30, 2026, for UCAS applications and July 31, 2026, for postgraduate direct applications.

What are the minimum English language requirements for Abertay University?

Abertay University requires IELTS Academic 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each component for most programs. Some competitive programs like Cybersecurity may require IELTS 6.5. Alternative tests include TOEFL iBT (78), PTE Academic (59), or Duolingo (105). Students from English-speaking countries or with previous English-taught degrees may be exempt.

How much does it cost to study at Abertay University as an international student?

International undergraduate students pay £15,000-£16,500 annually for tuition fees in 2026. Laboratory-based programs cost £16,500 while most other programs cost £15,000. Additional costs include accommodation (£4,500-£6,500), living expenses (£8,000-£10,000), and student visa fees (£363 plus healthcare surcharge). Total annual costs typically range from £27,863-£33,363.

What academic qualifications do I need for Abertay University admission?

Academic requirements vary by program but typically include A-levels (BBB-CCC), International Baccalaureate (28-32 points), or equivalent qualifications from your country. Pakistani students need 60-75% in Higher Secondary Certificate, Indian students need 60-80% in CBSE/ISC, and Nigerian students need credits in 5 WAEC subjects. Specific programs may have higher requirements.

Does Abertay University offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, Abertay offers various scholarships for international students including merit-based awards, country-specific scholarships, and early application discounts. Scholarship amounts typically range from £1,000-£3,000 per year. Students are automatically considered for some scholarships upon application, while others require separate applications. Contact the international office for specific scholarship opportunities available for your country and program.

Can I work while studying at Abertay University on a student visa?

International students on Student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This applies to both on-campus and off-campus employment. However, there are restrictions on self-employment and certain types of work. Abertay's career services help students find part-time employment and internship opportunities to gain valuable UK work experience.

What makes Abertay University special compared to other UK universities?

Abertay University is renowned for its technology programs, ranking #1 in Europe for computer games education. It's a pioneer in cybersecurity education with industry-standard facilities and strong employer connections. The university offers small class sizes, personalized attention, and excellent graduate employment rates (95% within 6 months). Its location in Dundee provides an affordable, safe, and culturally rich environment for international students.

When should I apply to Abertay University for 2026 entry?

For September 2026 entry, submit UCAS applications by June 30, 2026, though applying earlier (by January 2026) is recommended for better chances and scholarship consideration. International students should aim to apply by May 31, 2026, to allow time for visa processing. For January 2027 entry, applications close on October 31, 2026. Early applications receive priority consideration and better accommodation options.

Key Takeaways

✅ Abertay University accepts diverse international qualifications with IELTS 6.0 as the standard English requirement

✅ Apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs by June 30, 2026, or directly for postgraduate programs by July 31, 2026

✅ International student fees range from £15,000-£16,500 annually with additional living costs of £12,500-£16,500

✅ The university excels in technology fields, ranking #1 in Europe for games education and offering cutting-edge cybersecurity programs

✅ Strong graduate employment rates (95%) and comprehensive international student support services ensure successful outcomes

✅ Student visa allows 20 hours work per week, and Dundee offers an affordable, safe environment for international students