WUSCA ranking
The overall ranking is decided by students from this institution rating them in a 2025 Whatuni review. This forms the basis of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs for short).
42nd
/130
CUG ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
Overview
Aberystwyth University offers an excellent university experience and is consistently ranked amongst the best universities in the UK. The most recent National Student Survey placed Aberystwyth Top in Wales for Student Satisfaction.
The university is committed to delivering outstanding teaching in an environment that is welcoming, supportive and inclusive. Aberystwyth’s teaching quality is consistently ranked amongst the best in the UK and 98% of the university’s research is identified as being of an internationally recognised standard or higher (Research Excellence Framework 2021). This means that students on undergraduate programmes are taught by leading experts in their fields, within departments at the forefront of emerging research.
Student life at Aberystwyth is second to none. The main university buildings are located on the Penglais campus, within easy walking distance of the university’s accommodation and the town centre. The campus also boasts the largest arts centre in Wales, the university’s sports centre, the students’ union and many food and drink outlets. The Aberystwyth Students’ Union is also home to over 100 clubs and societies, where students can discover new passions and continue lifelong interests.
Aberystwyth itself is a small, welcoming and friendly student town located on the west coast of Wales. Situated between the mountains and the sea, the surrounding area offers opportunities to explore the great outdoors while the town itself is an inclusive and vibrant environment in which to relax and socialise. The university’s location means much of Aberystwyth’s teaching takes place in natural surroundings, providing an invaluable dimension to students’ studies.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“The campus itself is beautiful and has everything you could need, the lecturers are all friendly and willing to help too. The students union always puts on brilliant events like superteams and creates a real feel for community within the university.”
“Excellent general experience, interesting topics and subjects and great learning experience. Passionate lecturers and great sense of community. “
““Really putting the students first. The town has a really lovely community atmosphere and students are at the centre of this.”
Courses and lecturers
4.3Course rating
4.5Course content rating
4.3Lecturers and Teaching quality rating
Aberystwyth University offers a wide range of undergraduate courses across disciplines. Study options include Foundation programmes, joint honours and major-minor combinations, as well as integrated year in industry courses. Students on most programmes are also able to spend time studying or working abroad, adding an invaluable dimension to their degree. The university offers courses in the following subject areas:
Accounting & Finance
Agriculture
Animal & Aquatic Sciences
Art & Photography
Biochemistry & Genetics
Biosciences
Business & Management
Computer Science
Criminology
Drama & Theatre
Ecological Sciences
Economics
Education & Childhood Studies
Engineering
English & Creative Writing
Film & Television
Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences
History
Human Biology & Health
Information & Library Studies
Law
Marketing & Tourism
Mathematics
Modern Languages
Nursing
Physics
Politics & International Relations
Psychology
Sociology
Sport & Exercise Science
Veterinary Science
Welsh & Celtic Studies
Students can learn more about Aberystwyth’s courses, including entry requirements, on the website.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Very interesting course. Wide range of assessment style (essays, reports, presentations, seminar leadership etc.), good field trips too. Lecturers are friendly and helpful.”
“The course is outstanding. Plenty of resources are available online, using blackboard, and in person, with classrooms, the library workspaces as well as the National Library of Wales being on the doorstep of the university.”
“I love the course. My supervisor has been extremely helpful and has supported me with my work.”
Get prospectus
Interested? Order a prospectus to find out more about the uni and the courses on offer.
Entry requirements will vary depending on students’ course and the university considers each student on an individual basis. For more information on other entry requirements, take a look at the university’s website.
Some indicative entry requirements can be found below:
Biology Typical Entry Requirements
A level: BCC-BBB, with B in Biology or Chemistry (depending on degree specialism).
BTEC: DDM – DDD in a science subject.
International Baccalaureate: 28-30 points, with 5 points in Biology at Higher Level
European Baccalaureate: 65% - 75% with 7 in Biology
UCAS Tariff: 104-120 points
Plus GCSE (or equivalent): English or Welsh and Mathematics C/4
International RelationsTypical Entry Requirements
A levels: CCC-BBB
BTEC: MMM – DDM International Baccalaureate: 26-30 points
European Baccalaureate: 75%-65% overall
UCAS Tariff: 96-120 points
Plus GCSE (or equivalent): English or Welsh C/4
Geography Typical Entry Requirement
A levels: CCC-BBB
BTEC: MMM – DDD
International Baccalaureate: 26-30 points
European Baccalaureate: 75%-65% overall
UCAS Tariff: 96-120 points
Plus GCSE (or equivalent): English or Welsh and Mathematics C/4
The Accommodation ranking was decided by students from this institution rating them in a Whatuni review. This formed the basis for the 2025 Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs).
Aberystwyth is a campus university, where students can find everything they need for a rewarding student experience within easy walking distance. The campus is home to university accommodation, teaching and studying facilities, including two libraries, state of the art lecture rooms and practical labs, the students’ union, Wales’s largest arts centre, a sports centre and a number of restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops.
The Aberystwyth University Sports Centre offers a range of facilities to support Aberystwyth student’s health and well-being, including a sports hall, dance studio, swimming pool, and climbing wall. The campus also boasts a brand-new sports dome home to state-of-the-art cardio equipment and strength and conditioning apparatus.
The award-winning Aberystwyth Arts Centre is situated at the centre of the campus and is the perfect place to relax and socialise. It is home to theatres, a cinema, cafes and galleries and hosts a range of shows, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Aberystwyth students also have the National Library of Wales on their doorstep, which is one of only five copyright libraries in the UK – the perfect place to conduct research or find a quiet place to work.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Great, they refurbished the library recently and it's a really nice space to work in.”
“Always refurbishing and modernising, no complaints.”
Facilities
Aberystwyth University is a campus university, so students will find that everything they need for a rewarding lifestyle and great degree programme is within easy walking distance. As a result, students will benefit from little to no travel costs, as well as always being in the centre of a vibrant and exciting student community.
Campus facilities include state-of-the-art lecture rooms, practical labs, three libraries along a range of cafes, restaurants and coffee shops. For the more active there’s a floodlit 3G pitch, a gym, weights room, dance studio, climbing wall and 50 acres of playing fields.
There’s also the award-winning Aberystwyth Arts Centre, featuring theatres and a cinema.
Students also have access to the National Library of Wales, which is one of only five copyright libraries in the UK.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Physical sciences have their own library. Great resources and desk space.”
“Great, they refurbished the library recently and it's a really nice space to work in.”
“Always refurbishing and modernising, no complaints.”
Book open day
Find out more about the accommodations and facilities in person at the uni.
Student support is a high priority at Aberystwyth, and the university offers the practical, emotional, and financial support necessary for students to succeed during their studies.
Aberystwyth’s Student Support teams offer guidance on health and well-being, study skills, money management and much more, and the university’s Accessibility Service provides specialist support to students of all needs and backgrounds. Aberystwyth’s students’ union also has a dedicated Wellbeing Officer responsible for representing the student body on all matters relating to welfare, equality, diversity and well-being.
The university provides support to new students through two Peer Support schemes. Departmental Peer Guides offer advice and guidance to help new students settle into their course and adjust to life as a student. Signpost Mentors provide friendly, informal advice on all aspects of university life. Students can also access an independent listening service, Nightline, run by students, which provides a confidential helpline, email and instant messaging service.
Aberystwyth is committed to supporting its students through university, graduation and beyond. The university’s Careers Service offers advice and guidance on employability-related matters, as well as encouraging students to make the most of the opportunities available to them at Aberystwyth.
As expected from a university that prioritises student support, Aberystwyth also offers generous scholarships and bursaries to help with study and living costs.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“I can attest that the support system provided for students is close to immaculate.”
“Support is amazing, I get DSA through student support and I see a Mentor weekly who guides me with my studies and helps with my mental health. My personal tutor also supports me a lot.”
Visit website
Find out more about the student support offered on the university’s website.
Aberystwyth University has built a global reputation for teaching excellence and ground-breaking research for over 150 years. Aberystwyth’s teaching quality is consistently ranked amongst the best in the UK and 98% of the university’s research is identified as being of an internationally recognised standard or higher (Research Excellence Framework 2021).
Students at Aberystwyth are taught by leading experts in their fields, within departments at the forefront of emerging research.
Many of the study programmes available at Aberystwyth University are ranked within the Top 10 (many in the Top 5) for their subject field in the UK by multiple publications – students who choose Aberystwyth will enjoy one of the best education available in the country.
And it’s not just academic publications that believe so - many of the same subjects also rank highly for overall satisfaction as part of the National Student Survey.
Aberystwyth University’s Students’ Union is led by students for students. It is comprised of five full-time officers, eleven part-time officers and a team of support staff. The union is independent from the university and exists to support and advocate for Aberystwyth’s students. This is where students can make sure their voices are heard and have impact, whether that be regarding aspects of their course or on wider university issues.
Much of the Aberystwyth student experience is focused around the students’ union, which is home to over 100 clubs and societies. During Welcome Week, many events and activities are organised to enable students to explore everything on offer. Events continue throughout the year so there are always activities for students to join in.
Open year-round, the students’ union is home to sociable and relaxing spaces to study, unwind or participate in activities. Facilities include two bars, a Starbucks, Nosh Da food outlet and a shop.
The union also runs the Advice Centre, providing independent support and representation, whether on academic, welfare, or financial issues, for students who may find themselves needing extra support while at University.
As in many other areas of the university, student reviewers spoke of the friendly, welcoming environment that can be found at the SU.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“The students’ union is good, they work and help societies a lot and care about the students.”
“Students’ Union is very helpful and the societies are awesome!”
Clubs and Societies
Aberystwyth University is home to over 100 clubs and societies. Societies range from anime to cocktails, debating and yoga, and the many sports clubs include football, rugby, hockey, hiking, sailing and surfing, giving students the chance to get out and enjoy the surrounding area.
Each year, the students’ union host the Society Fair, which gives students the opportunity to find out more about the clubs and societies available. Joining a club or society is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and make life-long friends, with the university valuing the overall student experience beyond just academia.
The university prides itself on providing excellent support to students taking part in or running societies. And if a student can’t quite find their perfect society, the students’ union will assist them in setting one up and recruiting new members.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Excellent. There are a massive range of clubs and societies. You name it Aber uni has it.”
“There's a society for everyone, and if there isn't, then you can start one.”
“Being part of a society here really helps with meeting new people.”
City life
Aberystwyth University is ideally located on the west coast of Wales, surrounded by mountains and the sea. Aberystwyth itself is a small, welcoming and inclusive student town which offers the ideal location in which students can learn more about their academic and personal interests. Recognised as a friendly and safe town, Aberystwyth offers an excellent environment in which students can find their independence away from home.
The local area is the ideal place for those interested in outdoor activities or looking to explore new pursuits, with sandy beaches and internationally renowned National Parks on its doorstep. Students spend their spare time hiking, biking, surfing and sailing, or socialising in one of Aberystwyth’s many bars, restaurants and cafes. The university community is welcoming and tight knit, with a very friendly social scene.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Lovely town. Beautiful coastal location. Such a friendly community.”
“Aberystwyth is a beautiful place to go to university, there’s a great balance between busy student life and finding space to breathe whether it be at the beach or on the hill. There is also everything you need meaning you won’t spend money on things you don’t need to!”
“One of the safest areas I can think of. Super cheap everywhere to live. Lots of job opportunities in the town. Very diverse student town.”
Book open day
See the campus and city for yourself in person by booking an open day place.
Aberystwyth places a strong emphasis on enhancing employability and strengthening job prospects. The university offers a range of programmes with a year in industry, and students are able to access work experience and study abroad opportunities. These experiences provide students with a real-world dimension to their degree that will help them stand out from the crowd post-graduation.
The university’s Careers Service is on-hand to assist students in developing extra-curricular skills and experience. The service supports students throughout their studies and beyond graduation with advice, mentoring, practical sessions and recruitment events.
Aberystwyth’s commitment to employability is also evident in course content and programmes are structured with future employment or progression to research in mind. The university’s teaching staff are experts in their fields, meaning their insight and personalised support is a great launchpad to further study and graduate employment. Aberystwyth also boasts links with a range of leading professionals and organisations across the globe, including the BBC, S4C, Jaguar, the European Space Agency and Unilever.
Aberystwyth University students on Whatuni say:
“Careers service has events consistently available.”
“For my course, the university provides a weekend away in which you can interact with potential employers. I know of many students who have attended this weekend away and achieved industrial year placements.”
Aberystwyth University is proud to offer its students a comprehensive range of scholarships and bursaries. These awards don’t need to be paid back and help with study and living costs.
Entrance Scholarships and Merit Awards – Students will be required to sit two exams from the choice of subjects the university offers. Each exam lasts for an hour and a half. Students will receive a different level of award depending on the marks they achieve in both papers.
Aberystwyth Bursary - a means-tested award to support students from lower-income families.
Sports Scholarships - £1,000 per year and free Platinum Club membership of the university Sports Centre. Candidates may be awarded a Sports Scholarship if they can demonstrate that they have recently reached a high standard in their chosen sport, and a commitment to developing their performance in the field of sports while in the university.
Music Scholarship - £650 per year, free membership of Music Centre ensembles and use of practice and library facilities.
Departmental awards - up to £500 per year from the mathematics, physics and computer science departments.
Welsh Medium Study Scholarship – up to £400 per year by following part or all of a student’s course through the medium of Welsh.
Fees
Aberystwyth University continually develops and improves its courses, facilities and services to ensure that students attending get the best value for money possible. As a result, the university offers a great student package and is highly competitive amongst other higher education institutions.
Students originating from the UK can expect their tuition fees per academic year to be up to £9,250. This fee will be higher for international students, who can expect to pay tuition fees of £16,520 per academic year for an arts or social science degree, or £18,830 a year for a science degree. These fees are for full-time study. Students wishing to complete a part-time qualification should check the relevant course page to find further details about the structure and fees for their desired option.
There are a variety of ways to pay the fees associated with an Aberystwyth degree, and the university aims to provide as much flexibility around this as possible.
Ask a question
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their scholarships and bursaries.
As well as a wide range of courses, studying at Aberystwyth University offers you loads of opportunities to boost your CV thanks to the careers department. You might even have the chance to do a work placement or sandwich year during your degree.
As well as providing you with opportunities to develop academically and professionally, you'll have a wide range of clubs and societies to join. You'll be able to pick up a new hobby and make loads of new friends by joining some of the clubs and societies on offer at Aberystwyth University.
Many courses at Aberystwyth University offer an opportunity to do a work placement or sandwich year. These opportunities will help you develop your employability skills, and the careers department is also on hand to offer personal support.
As well as a wide range of courses on offer, Aberystwyth University also has loads of clubs and societies you can join during your studies. Joining societies is just one of the many ways you can tailor your experience at Aberystwyth University to suit you.
You'll be shocked by the number of clubs and societies on offer at Aberystwyth University. There's something for everyone! As well as being able to pick different clubs and societies, most courses let you choose modules at different points through your degree.
As well as personalising your course through optional modules, you may have the chance to do a work placement during your studies. Developing your professional skills through work placements is a great way to add to your CV and boost your employability.
What can you do with a degree from Aberystwyth University?
The world is your oyster! Of course, the exact options open to you will depend on which subject you choose to study. Employers often look to hire graduates, so you can be sure that your degree will give you a wider range of employment opportunities.
No matter what degree you choose, however, you'll have option of going on to further study. If you want to keep studying, your undergraduate degree will enable you to go on to a master's degree or even a PhD.
With a degree in a subject you love, you'll find more doors opening to jobs you'll love. Studies have also shown that graduates earn more on average compared to non-graduates.
If you want to continue to pursue education, you'll be able to progress to postgraduate study once you've got your undergraduate degree. You could opt to study a master's, or even get a PhD.
If you want a job you love (and who doesn't?), getting a job in a field you're passionate about is a great place to start. By studying a subject you really enjoy, you'll be qualified for a range of jobs relating to that subject, which you'll hopefully love.
For those who aren't ready to give up on education after an undergraduate degree, you'll have the opportunity to progress to postgraduate study such as a master's or even a PhD.
What accommodation does Aberystwyth University offer?
If you opt to live in uni halls, you'll benefit from free WiFi and all-inclusive rent. Rent for uni halls also includes security and maintenance, so you can be sure you'll be well-looked after. There are several accessible rooms available, which are adapted for disabled students.
Halls also have communal areas such as kitchen facilities where you can meet your flatmates over a cup of tea. You'll also have access to dining facilities where you can share a meal with other students in your accommodation.
Living in uni halls means you'll have access to communal areas including kitchen and dining facilities. These facilities offer you plenty of opportunity to socialise with the students you're living with.
You'll also find all bills are included in your rent, and yes, that includes WiFi. Rent also covers security and maintenance. There are accessible rooms available in halls that have been adapted for disabled students.
Aberystwyth University's accommodation is designed to be as straightforward and stress-free as possible. All your bills are included in your rent, you'll have free WiFi and your rent also includes security and maintenance.
You'll have access to communal areas like kitchen and dining facilities, where you can socialise with other students you're living with. Disabled students will find several rooms adapted in accessible halls to suit a range of access requirements.
