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