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How To Get Into University of St Andrews: Tips & Strategies

06/26/2023•13 minute read

If you're wondering how to get into St Andrews, there are a few things you should know about what the university looks for and how to stand out. The university has rigorous admissions requirements and a highly competitive applicant pool, so it's crucial to submit a stellar application. In this blog, we’ll expert tips on how to get into St Andrews and explore what the university looks for.

How hard is it to get into the University of St Andrews?

Generally, the University of St Andrews has an acceptance rate of approximately 18%. While this may seem a lot higher than the acceptance rates of top American universities, it is important to note that there are higher barriers to applying to St Andrews – including that one can only apply to 5 UK universities in the academic year.

St Andrews Acceptance Rate Last 5 years

Year	Applications	Offers	Acceptance Rate
2018	20,310	3,592	17.7%
2017	18,696	3,388	18.1%
2016	17,701	3,351	18.9%
2015	15,973	3,352	20.1%
2014	15,504	3,608	23.3%

What is St Andrews looking for?

1. Academic excellence

University of St Andrews is looking for students who have a strong academic record and have demonstrated exceptional intellectual ability. This includes high grades in relevant subjects, as well as a genuine passion for learning.

While taking AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) are not a requirement, Warwick does value applicants who have challenged themselves academically by taking advanced courses.

2. Critical thinking skills

St Andrews values students who can think deeply and critically about complex issues. The university is looking for students who can analyze problems, develop creative solutions, and communicate their ideas effectively.

This involves the capacity to question assumptions, recognize biases, and evaluate evidence in a systematic and logical manner. Students who are able to demonstrate creativity and innovation in their problem-solving approaches are highly sought after at Warwick, as they have the potential to make meaningful contributions to their fields of study and to society more broadly.

3. A Holistic Application

It's essential to remember that St Andrews has a holistic admissions process, meaning they consider every aspect of an applicant's profile. St Andrews weighs grades and test scores but also values personal qualities such as character, creativity, intellectual curiosity, and growth potential.

4. Passion for your subject

St Andrews is looking for students who have a genuine passion for their chosen subject. This includes a deep interest in the field, a desire to learn more, and a commitment to pursuing a career in the area.

St Andrews values students who have a range of interests and hobbies outside of their studies. While academic achievement is essential, extracurriculars are an important way to showcase the passion you have for your chosen subject.

What do you need to get into University of St Andrews?

You need great academic qualifications to meet the entry requirements of St Andrews. All applicants must meet the entry requirements to take up an offer of a place to study at St Andrews. Depending on where you studied for high school, St Andrews accepts a whole range of UK and equivalent international qualifications.

Generally, here are the expected academic qualifications needed:

International Baccalaureate

A total score of 38, 39 or 40 points (depending on the course), including core points, with 6s and 7s in subjects taken at the Higher level.

European Baccalaureate

An average of 85% or above, with scores between 8 and 9 in subjects specified at A-level or equivalent.

International A-levels

Recognised as equivalent to UK GCE A-levels on a grade-for-grade basis
Grade requirements differ per course.

Specifically, grade requirements differ for each course at St Andrews.

To learn more about the complete process of applying to top UK universities, check out our free eBook below!

How to increase your chances of getting into St Andrews?

1. Show enthusiasm for the subject

It is important to start thinking of which subject you would want to apply for university early on in your high school career so that you can begin to prepare your application early.

Importantly, to develop your interest and enthusiasm for a subject, you may want to consider taking part in relevant extracurricular activities. For example, if you are interested in the humanities courses (e.g. English, History, Politics), it would help to join clubs such as Debating or Model United Nations to hone your argumentative skills and grasp knowledge of the relevant subject matter.

This will also help when you are writing your UCAS statement, given that participating in these activities can show a demonstrated interest in the academic subject.

2. Wider Reading

Given that St Andrews courses are known to be very academic in nature, academic tutors tend to look out for potential students who have genuine academic interest through the books that they read.

They would want to see students who have read widely and beyond their high school academic syllabus. In part, this shows potential that the potential student would be able to handle the heavy independent reading required for surviving and thriving in the St Andrews academic setting.

3. Take Rigorous Courses & Score Well

St Andrews is looking for students who have excelled academically and challenged themselves by taking rigorous courses such as Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.

It's important to maintain high grades throughout high school and to take advantage of opportunities for academic enrichment.

Helpful resources

If you want to add rigorous coursework to your academic profile, consider taking some Online AP Courses at Crimson Global Academy.
If you’re struggling to reach a GPA of 4.0, consider taking Online Tutoring with St Andrews graduates who can help you reach your maximum academic potential.

Final Thoughts

Applying to St Andrews can be a stressful affair. It will help to learn about the acceptance rates, admission requirements and some valuable tips on preparing for the application. Hopefully, this article has covered some ground in guiding you through the application process. Believe in yourself, and whatever the outcome, enjoy the process and good luck!

If you need additional help with the application process, book a free consultation with one of our expert UK admission strategists. They can provide individualized and highly informed support in every aspect of your applications.

Our support includes:

Matching every student with a team of supporters who are graduates from Oxbridge and other top UK universities
Addressing every part of the UCAS application in detail - from test prep to personal statements, extracurriculars to interview prep.
Providing oversight by former Oxbridge admissions officers
Sharing years of inside UK admissions consulting knowledge unavailable elsewhere

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