a library filled with numerous books, showcasing various bookcases and shelving.

University of Aberdeen

The University of Florida’s College of Liberal Arts and Science offers students the opportunity to study in Aberdeen, Scotland. The University of Aberdeen is a public research university in Aberdeen, Scotland and is the fifth oldest university in the English speaking world. Students may attend in the fall, the spring, or for the entire academic year. Aberdeen is Scotland’s third largest city and is located on the Dee River. The city boasts spectacular granite architecture, is home to an active arts culture, and lively social scene. Aberdeen’s “Granite Mile” has over 800 shops and restaurants and is a common destination for locals and tourists alike. The city is home to its own golden sandy beach and has a mild climate with ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

Introduction to the University of Aberdeen

UF students recommend study abroad at the University of Aberdeen

This Past Semester in the UK and a Winter Break Full of Travel:” cjdtraveler in The Global Gator, February 4, 2025
An All-Nighter of Navigating Flights and Traversing Airports:” Willow Sinkus-Blackburn in The Global Gator, January 21, 2023
Willow Sinkus-Blackburn,” in The Global Gator, January 6, 2023
Student accommodations at the University of Aberdeen: Sofia Mesa, UF undergraduate
University of Aberdeen Exchange Student Carol Buydos’s Testimonial

Requirements/Eligibility

Two women are standing in front of a river, enjoying the outdoors.
UF students Kaitlyn Ennis and Lauren Stewart at the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland.
  • Open to all UF majors (Science majors, including pre-medical/dental/vet students, are encouraged to apply).
  • Languages of Instruction: English.
  • Required GPA: 3.0.
  • Students must have completed 12 hours of coursework at the University of Florida.
  • Each applicant must be nominated by the University of Florida and then apply to the exchange partner as an international exchange student.

Credits/Courses

A large number of University of Aberdeen courses have been pre-approved to transfer course credit (see samples of course equivalents by searching the table on this page for “Aberdeen”). Additional course equivalents are possible by contacting Dr. Brian Harfe. Explore the university course offerings.

Tuition

Tuition at the host school is waived for exchange students. Students participating in an exchange pay tuition directly to the University of Florida at their usual tuition rate. All financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships are applicable. Students incur no additional tuition cost while they are on an exchange.

Housing

Exchange students are guaranteed housing provided their requests are submitted on time. Students have the option of living in catered (with a meal plan) or self-catered (with shared kitchen) residence halls. Students can live on campus in either Crombie or Johnston Hall or in Hillhead Student Village, which is a 15 minute walk from campus. View the Hillhead Central Building Student Experience video.

Financial Aid

University of Florida students needing financial aid should apply through UF Student Financial Affairs. Normal eligibility for aid may be used while studying abroad as an exchange student. This includes using the Bright Futures scholarship and the Florida Pre-Paid College Plan.

Scholarships

King's College Aberdeen
King’s College (built in 1495). Forms the center
of the University of Aberdeen

For fall, spring, and academic-year scholarships administered by the University of Florida International Center, the deadlines for application are: early March for programs starting in fall; and early October for programs starting in spring. Applications forms are available on the UF International Center website.

– The Brian and Kate Harfe International Exchange Scholarship: Please note that preference will be given to students spending an entire year abroad.

Health Insurance

Students will be billed for mandatory international health insurance which includes emergency medical assistance.

Fees

A $425 non-refundable service charge is assessed for students participating in single semester or Academic Year programs. (The $425 fee is refundable if student is not accepted to the program). This charge is due within 21 days of the application. Students will be charged regular UF tuition while participating in the program.

Application Deadlines

See the application deadline and dates on the International Center website.

Work Requirements and Volunteer Opportunities

Currently, students will be able to work (with conditions) on a UK student visa. These resources may be helpful in explaining the certain restriction/conditions further:

Contact Information

UF Students in Aberdeen

UFIC Study Abroad Advisor
Emma Frierson (she/her)
Study Abroad Advisor
efrierson@ufic.ufl.edu
352-273-1508

UF Faculty Manager
Dr. Brian Harfe
bharfe@ufl.edu
(352) 294-1955

Additional Information