From India to Aberdeen: What Student Life at the University of Aberdeen Is Really Like

Moving from India to the UK for studies is exciting—but let’s be honest, it also comes with a lot of uncertainty. If you’re thinking about moving to Aberdeen for your studies, it’s normal to have a lot of questions before making the decision. Most students in your position are trying to figure out what day-to-day life will actually be like — from adjusting to the climate, to managing expenses, finding part-time work, and settling into a new environment. Let’s break down what living and studying in Aberdeen really feels like, so you can set realistic expectations before you arrive. 🌧️ 1. The Weather: Be Ready for a Big Change If you’re coming from India or other hot weather countries Aberdeen’s weather will feel like a completely different world. • Winters are cold, dark, and windy • Summers are mild (rarely very hot) • Rain is frequent, even in summer You might experience: • Sunset at 3:30–4:00 PM in winter • Long daylight hours in summer 👉 The biggest challenge isn’t just the cold—it’s the lack of sunlight in winter, which can affect your mood. How to handle it: • Invest in good winter clothing • Stay active (gym, walks, socialising) • Don’t isolate yourself indoors After a few months, most students adjust—but the first winter can be tough. 💼 2. Part-Time Jobs: Yes, But You Need Strategy Good news—part-time jobs are available. Students in Aberdeen can: • Work up to 20 hours per week during term time • Work full-time during holidays The city offers a decent number of opportunities, with 400+ part-time roles available at times But here’s the honest part: 👉 Jobs are available—but not guaranteed. You’ll need to: • Apply early • Be consistent • Accept initial rejections 🧑‍💻 3. What Jobs Do Students Usually Get? Most international students don’t land “professional” jobs immediately. Common student jobs include: • Retail (Tesco, Primark, local shops) • Cafés and restaurants • Delivery jobs (Uber Eats, Deliveroo) • University roles (library, admin) • Tutoring or freelance work These roles are popular because they: • Offer flexible hours • Don’t require UK experience • Fit around your class schedule Pay typically ranges between £12–£22 per hour depending on the role 👉 Tip: University job portals (like MyCareerHub) are one of the best places to start 💰 4. Cost of Living: Surprisingly Affordable (For the UK) Compared to cities like London, Aberdeen is much more affordable. Here’s a realistic monthly breakdown: • Total living cost: £950 – £1,400/month • Budget lifestyle: around £800–£1,300/month Typical expenses: • Rent: £400–£900 • Food: £150–£250 • Transport: £50–£90 • Miscellaneous: £100–£150 👉 UKVI recommends at least £1,136/month outside London Accommodation: • University halls: ~£99–£189/week • Shared flats: cheaper option 👉 Bottom line: Aberdeen is one of the more student-friendly cities in the UK in terms of cost. 🎓 5. Academic Life: Independent but Supportive UK education is very different from India. Expect: • More self-study • Less spoon-feeding • Heavy focus on assignments For MSc courses: • Fewer exams • More coursework and dissertation The university provides: • Academic support • Career guidance • Access to resources and libraries 👉 But success depends on your self-discipline. 🌍 6. Student Life: Quiet, Focused, but Enjoyable Aberdeen is not like London or Manchester. It’s: • Smaller • Quieter • More student-focused But that’s not a bad thing. Student life includes: • Societies and clubs • Cultural events • Beach walks (yes, there’s a beach!) • Café culture The city has students from 120+ countries, so you’ll meet people from everywhere 👉 It’s perfect if you prefer: • A calm environment • Less distraction • Better focus on studies 🤯 7. The Reality Check No One Tells You Let’s be real for a moment. Your first few months might feel: • Lonely • Confusing • Overwhelming You’ll deal with: • Weather shock • Cultural differences • Homesickness But almost every international student goes through this phase. 👉 And most of them come out stronger. ⚖️ 8. Balancing Studies, Work & Life Here’s where most students struggle. You’ll need to balance: • Classes • Assignments • Part-time work • Social life The key is: • Planning your week • Avoiding procrastination • Not overloading yourself 👉 Many students burn out trying to do everything at once. Start slow. Adjust gradually. ❤️ 9. Social & Relationship Life If you’re thinking about relationships or social life: • People are generally friendly • Dating culture is more open than in India • Social life depends on your effort But remember: 👉 Most students prioritise studies first Balancing relationships and academics is possible—but requires maturity and communication. 🚀 Final Thoughts: Is Aberdeen a Good Choice? If you’re looking for: ✔ Affordable student life ✔ Good university reputation ✔ Peaceful environment ✔ Career opportunities alongside studies Then Aberdeen is a solid choice. But if you want: ❌ Big city nightlife ❌ Fast-paced lifestyle You might find it a bit quiet. 📌 One Honest Advice Before You Decide Your experience in Aberdeen won’t depend on the city alone. It depends on: • Your mindset • Your planning • How proactive you are Students who take initiative thrive. Those who wait… struggle. 🚀 Need Help With Assignments While Adjusting? Many international students struggle in the beginning—not because they lack ability, but because they’re adjusting to a completely new system. If you ever feel stuck with: • Assignments • Research • Dissertation Getting the right support early can make a huge difference. British Scholars helps students: ✔ Understand UK academic expectations ✔ Improve assignments & structure ✔ Reduce stress during deadlines 📩 Instagram: @britishscholars 📞 WhatsApp: +44 7471 622999 🌐 www.british-scholars.com