Enhance your future in Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre is located in the heart of campus at the University of Aberdeen, offering programmes designed to prepare you for a successful study abroad experience.
Why choose University of Aberdeen International Study Centre?
When you choose to study at University of Aberdeen International Study Centre, you are part of the community from day one. Support from your tutors and classmates, as well as University staff and other students, ensure you will feel right at home in Aberdeen.
Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study a pathway programme at the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre:
Programmes that prepare you to thrive at university
The International Study Centre provides specially designed pathway programmes taught by expert staff, ensuring you build the language, academic and study skills you’ll need at the University of Aberdeen.
Support at the International Study Centre includes:
- Courses designed in collaboration with the University.
- Academic guidance from tutors who are experts in international education.
- Study plans to keep you on track to reach your goals.
- Time to adapt to the the Scottish university system.
Progress to the University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen blends centuries of tradition with a forward-thinking approach. As Scotland’s third-oldest university and the UK's fifth-oldest university, it provides students with a unique learning environment enriched by historical significance and modern innovation.
The University is also home to state-of-the-art facilities like the Bloomberg Terminal for business students, a multimillion-pound Science Teaching Hub, the Sir Duncan Rice Library and one of the largest health campuses in Europe.
Be part of a welcoming community
With over 14,000 students representing more than 130 nationalities, the University of Aberdeen boasts a welcoming campus, preparing students to thrive in a globalised world.
The campus is also home to more than 120 clubs and societies and 50 sports clubs so you can explore new passions and make friends with likeminded people.
The only city in Scotland with a Purple Flag status for the 11th year running*, recognising Aberdeen’s safe and vibrant city centre.
*Managed by the Association of Town & City Management, October 2024.
Experience the Scottish education system
The Scottish education system differs slightly from that in the rest of the UK. Scottish degrees have more flexibility, allowing students to study a range of areas before deciding their discipline, and are typically four years long.
Key facts
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Pathway programmes delivered and term dates:
- Undergraduate Foundation Programme – September, November (Enhanced Induction), January
- International Year Two – September, January (depends on the route)
- Pre-Masters Programme – May, September
Ranking: 12th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2025)
100%
of students who completed their preparation programme at the International Study Centre were offered a place to study their degree at the University of Aberdeen in 2024.
Looking back, I think it was a great decision to join the International Study Centre (ISC) because it's a great way for international students like me to bridge the gap. Studying at the ISC gave us a good foundation, so what we should expect when we start properly at the University of Aberdeen.
Hayder from Iraq
Undergraduate Foundation Programme
BEng Petroleum Engineering
Programmes on offer at the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre
The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre has a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes available for international students.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate Foundation Programme
- Designed for international students looking to enter the second year of a Scottish undergraduate degree (some exceptions apply).
- Helps you adapt to the UK education system while developing subject knowledge and academic English.
- Successful completion with required grades allows progression to the second year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen (some exceptions apply).
Subject routes available include:
- Business, Economics, Accounting & Real Estate
- Humanities, Law & Social Science
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences & Engineering
International Year Two
- Ideal for students with strong academic results who want to complete a UK undergraduate degree in three years.
- Combines subject-specific study and academic English during your time at the International Study Centre.
- Leads to direct entry into the third year of a four-year degree at the University of Aberdeen.
Subject routes include:
- Business Management & Finance
- Computer Science
- Medical Sciences
Postgraduate
Pre-Masters Programme
- A 12-week preparatory course for students progressing to postgraduate study.
- Strengthens your academic foundation and English skills before starting a Master’s degree.
- Designed for students with an undergraduate degree who need additional support.
Subject routes include:
- Business & Law
- Science & Engineering
Entry requirements
View full entry requirements on the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre site.
Fees
Check tuition fees on the University of Aberdeen International Study Centre site.