Why More Students Are Choosing RGU

The latest QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2027 place Aberdeen at the top of the UK affordability rankings, reinforcing the city's reputation as a place where students can benefit from lower living costs while studying for a degree designed to prepare them for employment.

For prospective students and their families, affordability continues to be a major consideration when selecting where to study. The recognition highlights a key advantage for those choosing RGU, where students combine an industry-focused education with access to one of the UK's most cost-effective student cities.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Lynn Kilbride said: "Students today are looking at the whole picture when deciding where to study. They want a high-quality degree, a great student experience, strong career prospects and a city where their money goes further.

"Aberdeen being ranked the UK's most affordable student city for the second year running is fantastic news because it means students coming to RGU can focus on making the most of their university experience while managing their living costs.

"Just as importantly, students are choosing RGU because of the opportunities that follow graduation. Our courses are developed with industry, informed by employers and designed to equip graduates with the skills organisations need. The combination of affordability, outstanding facilities, hands-on learning and strong employment outcomes makes RGU a compelling choice for students from across Scotland, the UK and internationally."

RGU has built a reputation for producing highly employable graduates through close partnerships with employers, extensive placement opportunities and a practice-based approach to teaching. Ranked in the UK's top 10 for Graduate Prospects in the Complete University Guide, the University works closely with industry to ensure students develop the skills, experience and professional networks needed to succeed in the workplace. Students benefit from strong links across sectors including health, energy, engineering, computing, business and the creative industries, helping them build valuable real-world experience before graduation.

Students explain why Granite City works for them

Current RGU student Blessing Bulaun said: "As a PhD student living in Aberdeen, I have found it to be one of the more affordable cities in the UK for postgraduate study. The cost of living, including rent, groceries, and day-to-day expenses, is generally lower than in many other major student cities. 

"Student bus fares and discounts offered by various retailers also help make living costs more manageable. Most importantly, I feel safe living in Aberdeen, and that sense of security allows me to focus on my research without the added stress of worrying about my personal wellbeing or finances."

Hesbon Kipchirchir, second year IT with Cyber Security student, said: "Affordability was one of the things I weighed most carefully before moving from Kenya to study here, because it was the difference between the move being possible and not. Aberdeen has held up. 

"I live in student accommodation and take the bus to campus, and a student ticket costs £4.95 for unlimited daily travel, so moving around the city has never become something I have to budget around separately. It also feels safe, which is its own kind of affordability when you are a long way from home. Being top of the UK for affordability matches what it actually feels like to live here as a student."

Third year Occupational Therapy student Ratika Devi added: "Aberdeen is a great student city because everything feels accessible. The cost of accommodation and everyday living is a real benefit, especially at a time when many students are worried about finances.

"For me, choosing RGU wasn't just about getting a degree. It was about preparing for a career and gaining practical experience. The support from lecturers and industry connections have been a huge part of that."

QS Best Student Cities rankings explained

The QS Best Student Cities Rankings assess 150 cities worldwide using a range of indicators, including student views, employer activity, desirability, affordability and university strength.

For students considering their next step, the latest ranking reinforces Aberdeen's appeal as a destination where they can study at a modern, professionally focused university while benefiting from a lower cost of living than many competing higher education locations.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Lynn Kilbride added: "The Aberdeen experience is about much more than affordability. Students who come to RGU join a supportive and ambitious university community, benefit from internationally recognised teaching and graduate with the skills, confidence and experience to succeed in the workplace.

"This recognition is another reason why students should look closely at what RGU and Aberdeen have to offer."

Main image: RGU student Blessing Bulaun