Aberdeen isn’t your typical student city — it’s a fascinating mix of silver granite, salty sea air, and unapologetic Scottish character. Perched on the northeast coast, this is the city where energy meets education — quite literally, since it’s also Europe’s oil capital. But beyond the offshore rigs and business buzz, Aberdeen has a softer, friendlier side that students quickly fall in love with. Think coastal walks, quirky cafés, historic architecture, and the kind of community that still feels local, even in a bustling city.
The Look and Feel
First impressions? Everything glitters. Aberdeen’s famous grey granite actually sparkles in the sunlight, giving the city its nickname — The Silver City with the Golden Sands. The architecture is striking, from gothic spires to modern glass buildings, all framed by long stretches of beach. Despite being one of Scotland’s biggest cities, it feels surprisingly manageable. You can walk from the city centre to the seafront in under 20 minutes, passing through student areas, parks, and plenty of snack stops on the way.
The city’s layout is compact yet dynamic. The central area — Union Street — is lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs, while nearby Old Aberdeen feels like stepping back in time with its cobbled lanes and historic university buildings. Students love the balance between urban life and open space; one day you’re attending a society meeting in a sleek library, and the next you’re hiking along coastal cliffs watching seals.
The Student Vibe
Aberdeen might be a city of granite, but its student energy is anything but cold. Between the University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University, and North East Scotland College, the student population is diverse, international, and always up to something. You’ll find a mix of academic ambition and easy-going fun — from all-night library sessions to beach bonfires.
The city has a surprisingly global feel, with students from over 120 countries, creating an atmosphere that’s welcoming and inclusive. Whether you’re from Glasgow or Ghana, you’ll find your circle quickly. And with two major universities, student events are non-stop — live music, film screenings, markets, and pub quizzes fill the calendar.
Culture and Lifestyle
Culturally, Aberdeen punches well above its weight. The Aberdeen Art Gallery, Music Hall, and His Majesty’s Theatre are staples for art lovers, while the Maritime Museum dives into the city’s rich seafaring history. The annual Nuart Festival covers the city in vibrant street art, turning even the most ordinary walls into canvases. Then there’s the beach — yes, a real, golden, mile-long beach where you can surf, jog, or just nap in the sea breeze (when it’s not snowing, obviously).
For downtime, the city’s café scene is a student’s dream — minimalist coffee bars, second-hand book cafés, and hidden indie spots perfect for essay writing or existential dread. Aberdeen’s nightlife also deserves a mention: from live music pubs to underground clubs and student bars that never quite close when they say they will.
The Perfect Mix
What makes Aberdeen special is its duality — it’s both professional and playful, historic yet forward-looking. It’s the kind of city where you can attend a career fair in the morning, stroll along the beach in the afternoon, and still make it to a gig by night. It’s ambitious, but not overwhelming; cultured, but not pretentious.
And for students moving here, the city’s manageable size, safety, and affordable student housing Aberdeen options make settling in almost too easy. You’ll quickly realize why people come to study for a few years and end up staying much longer.
House of Students Tip:
Aberdeen’s charm grows on you — fast. Explore beyond campus, talk to locals, and make the city part of your routine. Whether you’re here for a degree, a new start, or the coffee, this city gives you more than just an education — it gives you a lifestyle.
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Q: Are bills included in private halls?
A: Yes—most private student halls include all bills, Wi‑Fi, and amenities like gyms or study lounges. House of Student filters by all‑inclusive deals.
Q: What if I need to cancel or defer my booking?
A: Many providers have flexible cancellation periods. House of Student advisors guide you through terms and conditions.
Q: How early should I book accommodation?
A: Research and booking should start at least 3–4 months before term. First-year applicants typically look from January. House of Student alerts for deadlines.
Q: Is council tax applied to student housing?
A: Full-time students are exempt from council tax. House of Student advises to confirm eligibility and exemption proofs.
Q: What if I lose my key or need maintenance?
A: On-site staff or reception can assist quickly. House of Student listings highlight providers offering fast maintenance responses.
Q: Can I find furnished rooms?
A: Yes—most student halls and private studios come furnished. House of Student labels furnished listings clearly.
Q: How far is accommodation from campus?
A: Many halls are within 5–10 minutes walking or a short bus ride. House of Student details proximate options and transit times.
Q: What are the best areas to live as a student?
A: Top picks: Old Aberdeen, Rosemount, City Centre, Ferryhill, Pittodrie, Holburn for walkability and amenities. House of Student filters help target these suburbs.
Q: Can I rent accommodation as part of a group?
A: Shared houses and multi-bedroom flats are ideal for flatsharing with friends. House of Student supports group bookings.
Q: Are short‑term stays available?
A: Yes—some student halls allow semester-term tenancies. Students have reported flexibility post-September through providers like Bauhaus. House of Student lists them.
Q: How does the student diet work in catered halls?
A: Catered halls include set meals—breakfast/lunch/dinner. Meal plans vary. House of Student shows which halls are catered vs self-catered.
Q: Can I swap rooms or change accommodation later?.
A: Universities often allow room swaps within halls and flexible lease changes. House of Student helps negotiate transfers too.
Q: How are flatmates assigned in halls?
A: First-year halls often group same-year students. House of Student listings specify whether flats are mixed or year-segregated.
Q: What's the application process like?
A: Apply early through House of Student or uni portal. Submit docs, choose preferred area, and pay deposit. Advisors streamline the process.
Q: Can international students book via House of Student?
A: Absolutely. House of Student offers support for international students—including visa help, no-guarantor options, and trusted provider selection.
Q: Do student halls include social events or support staff?
A: University halls offer SRAs — social events, welfare support, flat guidance. House of Student highlights these community‑focused options.
Q: Is Aberdeen a safe city for students?
A: Yes—rated very safe with low crime in student-heavy areas. House of Student supports secure listings and local safety guidance.
Q:What safety features are included in student accommodation?
A: Look for secure entry, CCTV, well-lit areas, and on-site staff. House of Student collaborates with providers offering strong safety standards.
Q: How much is the required deposit?
A: Deposits vary by type—usually up to 5 weeks’ rent. Shared houses average £344. House of Student advisor support helps track deposits.
Q: Can I book short‑term or summer‑only student housing in Aberdeen?
A: Yes—many halls and some private providers offer shorter tenancies (44–51 weeks or shorter). House of Student flags those with flexible lease options.
Q: Are private student halls worth the price in Aberdeen?
A: Private halls offer modern amenities—ensuite rooms, gyms, social spaces—but cost more than uni halls. House of Student helps weigh costs vs perks.
Q: Do university halls include bills and utilities?
A: Most halls include bills, WIFI, and even meal plans for catered options. With House of Student, those extra expenses are typically rolled into your quoted rent.
Q: Are university halls guaranteed for first-year students in Aberdeen?
A: Yes—University of Aberdeen guarantees first-year students a room in its halls if applied by the deadline. House of Student highlights these options clearly.
Q: What types of student accommodation options are there in Aberdeen?
A: Choose from university halls (catered/self‑catered), private halls, shared houses, or studio apartments. House of Student filters help match your vibe and budget.
Q: How much does student accommodation in Aberdeen cost?
A: Typical rents: shared houses £85–125/week, university halls £95–145, private halls £115–185, studios up to £220/week. House of Student listings help you compare all price tiers easily.