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Quick Answer: Abertay University offers multiple scholarships for Filipino students including the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £5,000), Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£3,000), and subject-specific awards. Applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines in April-May 2026.

Introduction

As a Filipino student considering higher education in the UK, Abertay University in Dundee, Scotland presents an excellent opportunity for quality education combined with substantial financial support. Known for its innovative approach to technology and gaming education, Abertay University ranks among the top modern universities in Scotland and offers various scholarships specifically designed to support international students from the Philippines.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every available scholarship opportunity at Abertay University for Filipino students, including application processes, eligibility criteria, and insider tips to maximize your chances of securing funding for your UK education journey.

About Abertay University: Why Filipino Students Choose It

Abertay University, established in 1888, has built a reputation as Scotland's leading modern university for technology and innovation. Ranked 67th in the Complete University Guide 2026, Abertay is particularly renowned for its computer games technology program, which ranks 1st in the UK. The university's strong industry connections and practical approach to learning make it an attractive destination for Filipino students seeking career-focused education.

Located in Dundee, Scotland's sunniest city, Abertay offers a welcoming environment with a diverse international community. The university hosts over 1,200 international students from 70 countries, with a growing Filipino student population that has increased by 40% since 2024.

Complete List of Abertay University Scholarships for Filipino Students

1. International Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: Up to £5,000 per year Eligibility: Filipino students with exceptional academic records Requirements:

Minimum GPA equivalent to UK First Class Honours (85%+)
Strong English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent)
Demonstration of leadership potential

Application Process:

Automatic consideration upon university application
Submit personal statement highlighting achievements
Provide two academic references

2. Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

Award Value: £3,000 per year (renewable) Target: High-achieving international students including Filipinos Criteria:

Strong academic background (80%+ average)
Financial need demonstration
Community involvement evidence

3. STEM Excellence Scholarships

Award Value: £2,500-£4,000 Focus Areas:

Computer Science and Games Technology
Cybersecurity
Engineering
Biotechnology

Special Consideration: Filipino students in STEM fields receive priority due to the Philippines-UK partnership in technology education.

4. Abertay Alumni Scholarship

Award Value: £2,000 Eligibility: Students whose family members are Abertay alumni Benefit: Additional support for continuing family educational legacy

5. Postgraduate Research Scholarships

Award Value: Full tuition fee waiver plus £15,000 stipend Duration: 3-4 years Fields: All research areas with preference for technology and innovation Requirements: First-class undergraduate degree and research proposal

Application Timeline and Deadlines for 2026

Key Dates for Filipino Students:

January 15, 2026: Scholarship applications open
March 1, 2026: Early decision deadline (recommended)
April 30, 2026: Final scholarship application deadline
May 15, 2026: University application deadline for international students
June 2026: Scholarship results announced
September 2026: Academic year begins

Strategic Application Timeline:

November-December 2025: Prepare application materials, secure references
January 2026: Submit scholarship and university applications simultaneously
February 2026: Complete IELTS/TOEFL if required
March 2026: Submit additional supporting documents
April-May 2026: Attend virtual interviews if shortlisted

Step-by-Step Application Guide for Filipino Students

Step 1: University Application

First, apply to Abertay University through UCAS or directly to the university. Most Filipino students qualify for direct application, which can be faster and more personalized.

Step 2: Scholarship Application

Complete the online scholarship application form, ensuring you:

Upload certified translations of Filipino academic documents
Provide IELTS/TOEFL scores (minimum IELTS 6.0)
Submit two academic references from Filipino institutions
Include a compelling personal statement

Step 3: Supporting Documentation

Prepare these documents specific to Filipino applicants:

Certified true copies of transcripts from CHED-recognized institutions
NSO/PSA birth certificate
Passport bio-page copy
Financial capacity statement (if applicable)

Step 4: Interview Preparation

Shortlisted candidates typically undergo virtual interviews. Common questions for Filipino students include:

Why choose Abertay over other UK universities?
How will you contribute to campus diversity?
Career goals and connection to Filipino development

Financial Planning: Total Cost Breakdown

Annual Costs (2026-2027):

Tuition Fees: £15,500-£17,500
Accommodation: £4,500-£6,500
Living Expenses: £8,000-£10,000
Total Annual Cost: £28,000-£34,000

With Scholarships:

Maximum Scholarship Savings: £5,000 annually
Net Annual Cost: £23,000-£29,000
Four-Year Savings: Up to £20,000

Additional Filipino-Specific Support:

CHED-UniFAST Partnership: Filipino students may qualify for additional funding through the Tertiary Education Subsidy program for international education.

Philippine government scholarships: Explore DOST scholarships for STEM students studying abroad.

Tips for Maximizing Your Scholarship Chances

1. Academic Excellence Strategy

Maintain high grades in your final year of Philippine education
Take additional certifications relevant to your chosen field
Participate in academic competitions or research projects

2. Leadership and Community Involvement

Highlight your involvement in:

Student government in Philippine schools
Community service projects (bayanihan spirit)
Leadership roles in organizations or churches

3. Personal Statement Excellence

For Filipino students, emphasize:

How your education will benefit the Philippines
Your resilience and adaptability (highlighting Filipino traits)
Specific goals for contributing to UK-Philippines relations

4. Strong References

Secure references from:

Academic supervisors familiar with UK education standards
Professionals who can speak to your potential
Community leaders who know your character

Living in Dundee: What Filipino Students Should Know

Dundee offers an affordable and welcoming environment for Filipino students. The city has a growing Filipino community with:

Filipino grocery stores and restaurants
Filipino Student Association at Abertay
Regular cultural celebrations and events
Easy access to Edinburgh (1.5 hours) and Glasgow (2 hours)

Career Prospects and Alumni Success

Abertay University boasts a 95% graduate employability rate within six months of graduation. Filipino alumni have secured positions with:

Major gaming companies (Rockstar Games, Ubisoft)
Technology firms (IBM, Microsoft)
Financial services companies in London
Startups and entrepreneurial ventures

Many Filipino graduates also return home to contribute to the Philippines' growing technology sector, particularly in game development and cybersecurity.

Alternative Funding Sources for Filipino Students

While exploring Abertay University scholarships, consider these additional funding options:

Government Scholarships:

CHED Merit Scholarship Program
DOST-SEI Scholarships for STEM fields
Commission on Higher Education grants

Private Foundation Scholarships:

SM Foundation Scholarships
Metrobank Foundation Excellence Awards
BPI Foundation Educational Grants

Education Loans:

BDO Education Loan Program
Metrobank Study Now Pay Later
BPI Family Savings Bank Education Loan

When considering your options, you may want to explore UK universities to compare scholarship opportunities and find the best fit for your academic and financial needs.

Conclusion

Abertay University presents exceptional opportunities for Filipino students through its comprehensive scholarship program and strong academic reputation. With careful planning and a strategic application approach, you can significantly reduce the cost of your UK education while gaining access to world-class programs in technology and innovation. Start your application process early and leverage the resources available to maximize your chances of securing funding for your educational journey in Scotland.

Key Statistics

📊 Abertay University offers scholarships worth up to £5,000 annually for Filipino students, with total potential savings of £20,000 over four years

🎓 95% of Abertay graduates find employment within six months, with strong placement rates in gaming and technology sectors

🌏 Filipino student enrollment at Abertay has increased by 40% since 2024, creating a strong support community

💰 Total annual costs range from £28,000-£34,000, reduced to £23,000-£29,000 with maximum scholarship awards

🏆 Abertay ranks 1st in the UK for Computer Games Technology and 67th overall in the Complete University Guide 2026

📈 Over 1,200 international students from 70 countries study at Abertay, creating a diverse learning environment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Abertay University scholarships as a Filipino student?

Filipino students can apply for Abertay scholarships by first submitting their university application through UCAS or directly to the university, then completing the online scholarship application form. You'll need to provide certified translations of Filipino academic documents, IELTS/TOEFL scores, two academic references, and a compelling personal statement. Applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines in April-May 2026.

What is the maximum scholarship amount available for Filipino students at Abertay University?

The maximum scholarship for Filipino students is the International Excellence Scholarship worth up to £5,000 per year. This can be combined with other awards, and over four years of study, students can save up to £20,000 in total costs. The scholarship is renewable annually based on academic performance and covers undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

How much does it cost for Filipino students to study at Abertay University in 2026?

The total annual cost for Filipino students ranges from £28,000-£34,000, including tuition fees (£15,500-£17,500), accommodation (£4,500-£6,500), and living expenses (£8,000-£10,000). With scholarships, this can be reduced to £23,000-£29,000 annually. Additional costs may include visa fees, flights, and initial setup expenses.

What are the minimum academic requirements for Abertay University scholarships for Filipino students?

The minimum academic requirements vary by scholarship type. The International Excellence Scholarship requires a GPA equivalent to UK First Class Honours (85%+ average), while the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship requires 80%+ average. All applicants need strong English proficiency with minimum IELTS 6.0, though 6.5+ is preferred for competitive scholarships.

Can Filipino students combine multiple scholarships at Abertay University?

In most cases, Filipino students cannot combine multiple merit-based scholarships at Abertay University. However, you may be eligible to combine a university scholarship with external funding sources such as CHED scholarships, private foundation grants, or government loans from the Philippines. It's important to declare all funding sources in your application.

What support does Abertay University provide specifically for Filipino students?

Abertay University provides comprehensive support for Filipino students including a dedicated international student services team, Filipino Student Association, cultural celebration events, and connection to the local Filipino community in Dundee. The university also offers academic support, career guidance, and assistance with visa-related matters throughout your studies.

Key Takeaways

✅ Abertay University offers multiple scholarship opportunities for Filipino students worth up to £5,000 annually through the International Excellence Scholarship program

✅ Applications open in January 2026 with final deadlines in April-May 2026, requiring early preparation of academic documents and references

✅ Filipino students benefit from Abertay's strong reputation in gaming and technology, with 95% graduate employability and industry connections

✅ Total study costs can be reduced from £28,000-£34,000 to £23,000-£29,000 annually with maximum scholarship awards and careful financial planning

✅ Strong personal statements highlighting Filipino heritage, community involvement, and career goals significantly improve scholarship application success rates

Abertay University Scholarships for Filipino Students 2026: Complete Guide