St Andrews at a glance
St Andrews is a small town on the east coast of Scotland, best known for its prestigious university and iconic golf courses. Despite its size, it attracts students from all over the world with its rich history, seaside setting, and supportive academic community. It’s a walkable, student-centric town where lecture halls, coffee shops, and beaches are all just minutes apart – ideal for international students seeking academic excellence in a peaceful, scenic environment.
It's a small town so it is impossible to get lost, but there's still plenty to see and do. With three beaches and beautiful historic buildings, there is no shortage of sights to see. Brilliant pub culture with a great selection, from classy drinks to Celtic-style pubs, and you can find live music playing somewhere most nights of the week. The small size means the community feel is fantastic, and you will bump into someone you know every time you walk through town. Very safe, and rightly described as 'The Bubble' because it is such a unique place (and a bubble you never want to leave!). (Third year student, University of St Andrews)
Train station
Student population
Browse through the universities and colleges in St Andrews to find one that suits you.
Universities and colleges in St Andrews
City highlights
Explore cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, charming bookshops, and welcoming cafés. St Andrews Cathedral and Castle are must-visits for their stunning coastal views and centuries of history. The Old Course is world-renowned among golf enthusiasts, and the town hosts regular university events, student-led theatre, and a variety of traditions that make St Andrews unique – like the May Dip and Raisin Weekend.
Golf: St Andrews is considered the birthplace of golf, and a mecca for fans and players alike. The Old Course is the oldest course in the world.
Student life in St Andrews
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
Sunday chilling
When family visit
Feeling cultural
Transport tips
St Andrews doesn't have its own train station, but nearby Leuchars Station connects you to Edinburgh, Dundee, and beyond. Buses and taxis run frequently between Leuchars and town. The town itself is very walkable, with most students getting around on foot or by bike. Edinburgh Airport is around 90 minutes away by car or coach, making it a convenient hub for international arrivals.
Accommodation
Accommodation in St Andrews ranges from historic halls of residence to modern shared flats. The town is small, so students can live within walking distance of both campus and the beach.
Popular areas include the town centre, East Sands, and North Haugh. The cost of living can be slightly higher than average due to the town’s popularity, but many student discounts are available. The university provides strong support services for international students, including wellbeing, housing, and community programmes.
International student information
Discover everything you need to know as an international student planning to come to the UK.
Whether you're coming for the first time, returning for postgraduate, or are still waiting to make a decision, our international pages can help you prepare as best you can for life in the UK.
Where to eat
For a small town, St Andrews offers an excellent range of food options. Try The Cottage Kitchen or CombiniCo for student favourites, or enjoy fish and chips by the sea from Tailend. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, and local bakeries like Fisher & Donaldson are perfect for snacks and sweet treats. The town also has several supermarkets, including Aldi and Morrisons, ideal for student budgets.
What to visit
Outside of your studies, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Botanic Garden, walk along West Sands Beach, or hike the Fife Coastal Path for incredible sea views. The university’s museums and galleries also offer exhibitions, talks, and events that enrich student life. From golf to ancient ruins, the town blends intellectual and outdoor experiences beautifully.
The seafront: My favourite place to walk to [take a] break from the library. Look one direction and see a view of the town, another the famous Old Course, and yet another, the length of West Sands Beach and the sea. (Lydia, third year student at University of St Andrews)
St Andrews has a ton of pubs spread over the three main streets. This means the nightlife is very centralised, and people are constantly seeing friends.
St Andrews doesn’t really have neighbourhoods, however there are some residential areas outside of the three main streets. I’m lucky to live on Market Street this year, which [is] a great location, but can be loud at night with all the crazy students. The flats in the centre tend to be smaller and more expensive. Some people prefer the cheaper options which are a ten to 15-minute walk from town [and] closer to cheaper supermarkets, like Aldi and Morrisons.
On your doorstep
St Andrews is well-positioned for exploring Scotland. Take a day trip to Dundee for modern art and shopping or visit Edinburgh for festivals and historic sites. The Highlands, Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond are all within reach for weekend adventures. Closer to home, explore the fishing villages of the East Neuk, or enjoy surfing and kayaking right on your doorstep at East Sands.
Edinburgh: Colourful shopping on Victoria Street.
Basic safety
It’s important to adhere to basic safety practices when studying and living in any city. Being aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in busy and populated areas.
Some basic advice from the Metropolitan Police will help to ensure you stay as free from crime as possible:
- Keep your valuables hidden and don’t carry large amount of cash.
- Beware of scams, such as street hustlers, unlicensed taxis, and non-official sellers.
- Keep your belongings, shopping, and luggage close to you at all times.
- Don’t leave your drinks unattended or accept them from strangers.
- Travel as a group and always make sure you tell your friends you got home safely, and vice versa.
- Double check all taxis have a visible and valid licence before using them.
UCAS Hub
Explore your options, favourite your interests and get tailored advice in the UCAS Hub.