Aberystwyth University
About
Aberystwyth University is a historic institution located on the stunning coast of West Wales. Founded in 1872, it was the first university college in Wales and is known for its friendly community and research excellence. The university offers a unique learning environment where students can enjoy both academic rigor and a high quality of life by the sea. The university is structured into three faculties: Arts and Social Sciences, Business and Physical Sciences, and Earth and Life Sciences. It is particularly renowned for its International Politics department (the first of its kind in the world) and the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS).
Rankings & Reputation
🚆 Travel & Transport
Getting Here
- Train:Aberystwyth station is in the town center, with direct trains to Birmingham (3h) and Shrewsbury (1h 30m).
- Bus:TrawsCymru buses connect Aberystwyth to other parts of Wales.
- Air:Birmingham Airport (3h by train), Cardiff Airport (2h 30m by car)
Local Transport
The town is compact and walkable. The university offers a regular bus service up the hill to the main campus.
🎓 Faculties & Schools
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Faculty of Business and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences
📊 Key Statistics
Entry Requirements
Typical offers range from BBB to CCC. The university is committed to widening access and offers a range of scholarships and bursaries. It also accepts the Welsh Baccalaureate and offers entrance exams for scholarships.
Accommodation
Aberystwyth offers guaranteed accommodation for all first-year students. Options range from sea-view rooms in the iconic seafront residences to budget-friendly halls on the main Penglais campus. The Fferm Penglais student village offers high-quality studio apartments.
Student Life
The Students' Union is the hub of social life, with over 100 societies and sports clubs. The town is famous for its safe and friendly atmosphere, with plenty of pubs, cafes, and the National Library of Wales right on the doorstep.
Admissions
Apply via UCAS. The university values individual potential and considers each application holistically. They often make unconditional offers to students with strong predicted grades.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aberystwyth University
Entry requirements for Aberystwyth University vary by course. Most undergraduate courses require A-levels with grades ranging from AAA to BBB, or equivalent qualifications. International students may need to provide IELTS scores (typically 6.0-7.0). Check the university website for specific course requirements.
Aberystwyth University offers a vibrant student experience in Aberystwyth, Wales. Students can join numerous societies and sports clubs, attend regular events, and enjoy the local area's cultural offerings. The Students' Union provides support services and organizes social activities throughout the year.
Aberystwyth University offers a range of accommodation options including catered and self-catered halls of residence. First-year students are typically guaranteed university accommodation if they apply by the deadline. Private rentals are also available in Aberystwyth, Wales.
Applications for full-time undergraduate courses are made through UCAS. The deadline for most courses is 31 January, with earlier deadlines for medicine, dentistry, and Oxford/Cambridge applications. You'll need to write a personal statement and provide academic references.
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