Notes on the Fly: University of St. Andrews, Scotland
*College campus tours are packed with information and always an amazing experience. In my "notes on the fly" blog, I will be sharing facts about the college/university that I write "on the fly" during my visits.*
Upon graduation, there is a post study work visa available to allow foreign students to work in the UK for 2 years.
Dundee is close by for shopping, eating, fun etc.
Edinburgh close by - cultural power house International airport Very connected by air
Town is about 1000 years old. Medieval cathedral is the central to the growth of the town. There isn’t a designated campus, it is spread through the town. Very busy active town. Golf brings in a lot of people as well.
Student center is the hub of student life. The town is very community oriented around the university. Only 20,000 in the town altogether.
9,200 students from over 140 countries and territories
1/3 international - 18% US
1st in Scotland, 2nd in the UK
100th in the world , 1st for student satisfaction (UK based rankings)
Teaching
St Andrews works on a system of larger lectures, smaller tutorials and lab work, offering access to leading academics.
Focus on independent learning, with access to support from academics
Award winning research led teaching
Small class sizes - in tutorial level classes, 12 to 6, with PhD or Professor
12-24 hours per week teaching, 3 modules per semester
Independent study - attendance is tracked at tutorials but not lectures
Flexible degree structure
Apply into 4 Faculties
Arts
Science
Medicine - 3 years of medicine classes, then student moves on to another institution for 3 years, then residency
Divinity
No law and no engineering
Apply into your major
No core curriculum
Study abroad
Offer student abroad options for a range of students every year
Semester or full year abroad
Subject specific study abroad opportunities
Work abroad placements
Application is competitive
How to apply
Three options for international students
UCAS - good for multiple UK applications 4000 characters 300 to 400 time to differentiate yourself from the pack. Focus on topic
Common Application - closed 1 May, rolling admission
Direct application - closes June 30
Academic qualifications
Academic reference - talk about student and record, tell them about student in a different light from application
Personal Statement/Essay
Passion for your subjects
Personal experience
Extra curricular activities
Entry requirements for USA
Rigorous college preparatory curriculum
A to B+ average
ACT 28+ or SAT 1320+
ACT and SAT each superscored
Must meet any pre-requisite knowledge requirements where applicable - see website for higher SAT subject tests and AP scores
Meet faculty entrance requirements through US equivalencies such as honors classes or standardized tests
Must show passion for subject - even with good grades and scores it is important to have good references and you show follow through on your passion
Financial support
student loans - FAFSA
Scholarships based on financial need and academic excellence - smaller in amount
Apply early and check deadlines
Scholarships information is sent to students about 5 days after application submission
Accommodation
accommodation guarantee - apply for accommodation immediately upon acceptance
10 halls with distinct characteristics
Catered or self catered halls
Shared or single
En-suite or standard rooms
Questionnaire to match students
Wardennial system - staff members who live on the hall. An adult that checks in on students - gentle guidance. Place to ask for help. Maintain privacy
Career center
96% work or go for further su=Rudy within 6 months
Dedicated careers service
One to one careers advice
Employability workshops
International opportunities
Graduate in major organizations worldwide
Honors Program
ABAB or ABBA program - meaning leaping between schools.
Must interview for program to understand
Can’t decide to stay at one place vs another - if you decide you want to stay at one institution, you must reapply for entrance as a transfer students
