16 cheapest universities in Scotland in 2026
The most affordable universities in Scotland, ranked by minimum bachelor fees. Ideal for optimising your study budget.
Lowest fee
13,000 GBP/yr
Price range
16 universities ranked by increasing fees
No. 1University of the Highlands and Islands
Public Scottish university specializing in environmental sciences and rural studies.
No. 2University of the West of Scotland (UWS)
One of Scotland's largest public universities, with campuses in Paisley, London and abroad: business, engineering, health and creative industries.
No. 3Glasgow Caledonian University
Public Scottish university, leader in health, engineering, and business.
No. 4Abertay University
A public university in Dundee, Scotland, world pioneer in video games education and cybersecurity, known for its close student support.
No. 5University of Stirling
Public UK university recognized for its idyllic setting and academic excellence.
No. 6Queen Margaret University
Public UK university specializing in health, arts, and media.
No. 7Edinburgh Napier University
Public UK university specializing in computing, engineering, and business.
No. 8Robert Gordon University
Public Scottish UK university renowned for engineering and health.
No. 9Heriot-Watt University
Public Scottish UK university, leader in engineering and business.
No. 10University of Dundee
Scottish university renowned for medicine, law, and engineering.
No. 11University of Strathclyde
Public Scottish UK university, leader in engineering and technology.
No. 12University of Aberdeen
Public UK university, ancient and prestigious, Russell Group member.
No. 13University of Glasgow
Public Scottish UK university, Russell Group member, among the oldest.
No. 14Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Private UK conservatoire, leader in music, dance, and performing arts.
No. 15University of Edinburgh
Public UK university, Russell Group member, among the oldest and most prestigious.
No. 16University of St Andrews
Public UK university, Scotland’s oldest, Russell Group member.