Dundee is one of Scotland’s most exciting and welcoming student cities. Sitting on the banks of the River Tay with stunning views across to Fife, this compact city has reinvented itself as a hub of creativity, innovation, and culture. With around 30,000 students across its two universities, Dundee punches well above its weight, offering world-class education at a fraction of the cost of larger UK cities.

The University of Dundee is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for student experience and is world-renowned for its life sciences research. Abertay University is a pioneer in computer games education, having created the world’s first dedicated computer games degree, and continues to be a global leader in this fast-growing industry. Together, they welcome students from over 140 countries, creating a friendly, diverse community in a city small enough to feel like home.

Student accommodation in Dundee offers outstanding value, making it one of the most affordable student cities in the UK. Weekly rents typically range from £80 to £130 for shared houses in popular student areas, significantly cheaper than Edinburgh, Glasgow, or many English cities. The city’s compact size means most student neighbourhoods are within walking distance of both universities, and you can cross the entire city centre in around 15 minutes on foot.

What truly makes Dundee special is its remarkable combination of the stunning V&A Dundee museum on the transformed waterfront, a thriving creative and gaming industry, warm and welcoming locals famous for their friendliness, easy access to the Scottish Highlands, beautiful beaches, historic castles, and a tight-knit student community where you’ll quickly feel at home.

The Best Neighbourhoods for International Students

Dundee’s student areas cluster around the city centre and the West End, with most students choosing to live in the West End, City Centre, Perth Road, Stobswell, or Broughty Ferry. The city is compact enough that nowhere feels far away, and all areas are well connected by buses and easily cyclable.

West End

The West End is Dundee’s most popular student area and the beating heart of student life in the city. Centred around the University of Dundee campus, this vibrant neighbourhood offers the perfect combination of convenience, character, and community. The streets are lined with handsome Victorian and Edwardian tenement buildings that have been converted into student flats, giving the area a distinctive Scottish charm.

The area buzzes with cafes, pubs, charity shops, and independent businesses catering to the student population. The Perth Road, which runs through the heart of the West End, is packed with restaurants, takeaways, and bars. Magdalen Green, a beautiful open park overlooking the River Tay, is perfect for summer barbecues and relaxation. The West End suits students who want to be at the centre of student life with an easy walk to campus. Average weekly rent ranges from £85 to £125.

Perth Road

Perth Road runs westward from the city centre through the heart of the student area, and the streets immediately off it are among the most sought-after for student accommodation. This corridor offers easy access to both the University of Dundee and Abertay University, with countless options for food, drink, and entertainment along the way.

The area features a mix of traditional tenement flats and larger Victorian houses converted into shared accommodation. You’ll find everything from cosy coffee shops and craft beer bars to late-night takeaways and student-friendly pubs like The Speedwell Bar (known locally as Mennies). The Dundee Rep Theatre and the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design add cultural vibrancy. Average weekly rent ranges from £80 to £120.

City Centre

Dundee’s city centre has been transformed in recent years with the opening of V&A Dundee and the ongoing waterfront regeneration. Living centrally puts you within walking distance of both universities, all major shops, restaurants, nightlife, and the stunning riverside with its views across the Tay to Fife.

The city centre offers a mix of purpose-built student accommodation and converted flats above shops. The Overgate and Wellgate shopping centres provide retail therapy, while the Nethergate and surrounding streets offer restaurants, bars, and clubs. Abertay University’s campus is located right in the heart of the city centre. City centre living suits students who want everything on their doorstep and don’t mind a slightly busier environment. Average weekly rent for PBSA ranges from £110 to £180.

Stobswell

Stobswell lies to the northeast of the city centre and offers some of the most affordable student accommodation in Dundee. This traditional working-class neighbourhood has a strong community feel and excellent local amenities along Albert Street, including supermarkets, takeaways, and independent shops.

The area features Victorian tenement flats at very reasonable rents, making it popular with budget-conscious students. Baxter Park, one of Dundee’s finest Victorian parks with its restored pavilion, is a local highlight. Regular buses connect Stobswell to the city centre and universities in around 10 to 15 minutes. Stobswell suits students looking for excellent value and an authentic local neighbourhood experience. Average weekly rent ranges from £70 to £100.

Broughty Ferry

Broughty Ferry, known locally as ‘The Ferry’, is a charming seaside suburb about four miles east of the city centre. Once an independent burgh, it retains its own distinct character with a picturesque harbour, sandy beach, castle, and excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants along its attractive high street.

The area is popular with postgraduate students, mature students, and those who prefer a quieter, more residential environment while still having easy access to the city. The beach is perfect for walks and watching the dolphins that frequent the Tay estuary. Regular buses and trains connect to the city centre in around 15 to 20 minutes. Broughty Ferry suits students who appreciate seaside living and don’t mind a short commute. Average weekly rent ranges from £90 to £140.

Coldside

Coldside sits north of the city centre and offers affordable accommodation within easy reach of both universities. The area includes the slopes of Dundee Law, the city’s iconic volcanic hill, which offers panoramic views across the city, the Tay, and beyond to the Highlands on clear days.

The neighbourhood is primarily residential with a mix of tenement flats and houses. It’s well served by buses and is an easy walk or cycle to the city centre. The climb up Dundee Law is a rite of passage for students and a great way to clear your head during exam season. Coldside suits students who want affordable accommodation and don’t mind being slightly further from the main student areas. Average weekly rent ranges from £70 to £100.

Getting to Dundee as an International Student

Dundee is located on the east coast of Scotland, approximately 60 miles north of Edinburgh. While the city has its own small airport, most international students arrive via Edinburgh or Glasgow airports, both of which have excellent onward connections.

Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport is the most convenient major airport for Dundee, located approximately 60 miles south. It offers a wide range of international connections, including direct flights to major European hubs, North America, and the Middle East. The Citylink bus service runs directly from Edinburgh Airport to Dundee, taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and costing around £20 to £30. Alternatively, take the tram or bus to Edinburgh Waverley station, then catch a direct train to Dundee (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes).

Glasgow Airport

Glasgow Airport is approximately 80 miles from Dundee and offers extensive international connections, particularly to North America. Citylink buses run from Glasgow Airport to Dundee via Glasgow city centre, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the bus to Glasgow Queen Street station, then a direct train to Dundee (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes).

Dundee Airport

Dundee Airport is a small regional airport located just 2 miles from the city centre, offering daily flights to London City Airport. While limited in routes, it’s extremely convenient for those connecting through London. A taxi to the city centre costs approximately £8 to £12. The airport is also served by bus routes.

Connections via London

Many international students travel via London Heathrow or Gatwick. From London, direct trains run from King’s Cross to Dundee, taking approximately 6 hours 30 minutes. LNER and other operators offer advance tickets from £30 to £100. Overnight Caledonian Sleeper trains run from London Euston to Dundee, allowing you to travel while you sleep. Budget airlines from London to Edinburgh or Glasgow provide another option.

Getting Around Dundee

Walking: Dundee is remarkably compact, and most students walk everywhere. The entire city centre can be crossed in around 15 minutes on foot. From the West End to the city centre takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and both universities are within easy walking distance of most student accommodation.

Buses: Xplore Dundee operates most bus services in the city. Single fares are around £2, with day tickets available for £4.50. Weekly passes cost approximately £17. The network covers all residential areas and runs frequently during the day. Both universities are well served by bus routes.

Cycling: Dundee is becoming increasingly cycle-friendly, with dedicated cycle routes and a bike-sharing scheme. The relatively flat city centre and waterfront make cycling practical, though some areas have steep hills. Both universities provide bicycle storage.

Trains: Dundee station connects to Edinburgh (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes), Glasgow (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes), Aberdeen (1 hour 10 minutes), and London (6 hours 30 minutes). A 16-25 Railcard costs £35 per year and saves one-third on most fares. Many student bank accounts include a free Railcard.

Universities in Dundee

University of Dundee

The University of Dundee is a research-intensive university with approximately 16,000 students. It consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK for student experience, with the Students’ Union frequently named best in the UK. The university was named Scottish University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

The university is world-renowned for Life Sciences, ranking among the best in the world for biological sciences research. The School of Medicine is highly regarded, and strong areas also include Art and Design (through Duncan of Jordanstone College), Law, and Engineering. The campus is located in the West End, within walking distance of the city centre. International students from over 145 countries benefit from dedicated support services, and accommodation is guaranteed for first-year international students who apply by the deadline.

Abertay University

Abertay University is a modern university with approximately 9,000 students, known globally for its pioneering role in computer games education. In 1997, Abertay launched the world’s first computer games degree, and it remains a world leader in this field, with graduates working at major studios including Rockstar Games (creators of Grand Theft Auto).

Beyond games, Abertay has strong programmes in Cybersecurity, Ethical Hacking, Business, Psychology, and Sport and Exercise. The university emphasises industry connections and practical skills, with excellent graduate employment rates. The campus is located right in the city centre, making it exceptionally convenient. International students from over 60 countries benefit from small class sizes, personal attention, and comprehensive support services.

Cost of Living in Dundee for International Students

Dundee is one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, with living costs significantly lower than Edinburgh, Glasgow, or English cities. This makes it an excellent choice for students seeking an outstanding education without the high living costs associated with other UK destinations.

Accommodation (Weekly)

Shared house in Stobswell or Coldside: £70 to £100

House in Perth Road: £80 to £120

Shared house in West End: £85 to £125

HMO in Broughty Ferry: £90 to £140

University halls: £100 to £160

En-suite PBSA: £120 to £180

City centre studio: £140 to £200

Food, Transport and Other Costs

Budget around £100 to £150 per month for groceries. Aldi, Lidl, and Asda offer excellent value, with local shops and Tesco Metro in the West End convenient for daily needs. Many students walk everywhere and have minimal transport costs. Those needing buses can get weekly passes for around £17. Mobile phone SIM-only plans cost around £10 to £20 per month. Gym membership outside university facilities runs £20 to £35 per month, though most students use the excellent university sports facilities.

Realistic Monthly Budget

Budget-conscious students can live comfortably on £700 to £900 per month in Dundee. A typical student spending on mid-range accommodation and moderate social activities should budget £900 to £1,200 per month. For visa purposes, you need to show £1,136 per month (outside London rate) for nine months, totalling £10,224, though actual costs in Dundee are typically lower than this requirement.

International Student Community in Dundee

Dundee has a welcoming and close-knit international student community, with students from over 145 countries studying in the city. The University of Dundee Students’ Association (DUSA) is regularly voted the best students’ union in the UK and offers over 150 societies and sports clubs, including cultural and nationality-based groups. The union building itself is a hub of student life with bars, a nightclub, cafes, and event spaces.

Abertay Students’ Association offers additional societies and support. Both universities provide comprehensive international student support, including visa advice, orientation programmes, buddy schemes, and English language courses. The compact size of Dundee means the international community is particularly tight-knit, and you’ll quickly recognise faces around campus and the city.

Dundee’s food scene has grown significantly in recent years. The Perth Road and city centre offer international options, including Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern restaurants. Taza on Perth Road serves excellent Middle Eastern cuisine, while the Bach at Broughty Ferry Beach is popular for brunch. The Overgate food court and various takeaways cater to student budgets. Asian supermarkets stock ingredients for home cooking from around the world.

Dundee’s nightlife is compact but lively. DUSA (the university union) is the heart of student nightlife, hosting club nights, live music, and events throughout the week. The city centre offers bars and clubs along the Nethergate and in the Cultural Quarter, including Reading Rooms and Underground. Traditional pubs like Mennies (The Speedwell Bar) are student institutions. Broughty Ferry has excellent waterfront bars and pubs. The scene is friendly and accessible, with students from both universities mixing freely.

What Makes Dundee Special for International Students

V&A Dundee: Scotland’s first design museum is an architectural masterpiece by Kengo Kuma. Free for students, it hosts world-class exhibitions and has transformed Dundee’s waterfront into a cultural destination.

UNESCO City of Design: Dundee was designated a UNESCO City of Design in 2014, recognising its creative heritage and contemporary design culture. The city buzzes with creative energy, galleries, and design events.

Gaming Industry Hub: Dundee is a global centre for the games industry, with Grand Theft Auto created here by DMA Design (now Rockstar North). Students benefit from industry connections and graduate opportunities.

Friendliest City: Dundonians are famously warm and welcoming. The city regularly ranks among the friendliest in the UK, and international students consistently praise the local hospitality.

Gateway to the Highlands: The Scottish Highlands begin just north of Dundee. Glens, lochs, mountains, and castles are all within easy reach for weekend adventures. The Cairngorms National Park is under two hours away.

Beautiful Beaches: Broughty Ferry beach and the coastline stretching towards St Andrews offer stunning walks, water sports, and the chance to spot dolphins in the Tay.

Affordable Living: Outstanding value for money compared to other UK cities means your money goes further, allowing you to enjoy more experiences during your studies.

Compact and Connected: Everything you need is within walking distance. The city is perfectly sized for students, with a real community feel where you’ll quickly feel at home.

Dundee FAQs

Is Dundee a good city for international students?

Absolutely. Dundee offers excellent universities with world-class research, exceptional affordability, a welcoming community, and a high quality of life. The compact size means you’ll quickly feel at home, and the student community is tight-knit and friendly. For students seeking outstanding education without big-city prices, Dundee is an excellent choice.

Is Dundee safe?

Dundee is generally considered safe, with student areas like the West End and Broughty Ferry particularly secure. The city’s compact size and strong community feel contribute to a safe environment. Both universities provide security services and support. As with any city, normal precautions apply, particularly at night.

What is the weather like?

Dundee has a temperate maritime climate and is actually one of the sunniest cities in Scotland, being sheltered by hills to the north and west. Winters are cold (average 1-7°C) with occasional snow. Summers are mild and pleasant (12-19°C). Rain is possible year-round, but less frequent than in western Scotland. Warm, waterproof layers are essential.

Is it easy to find part-time work?

Dundee has good part-time job opportunities for students, particularly in retail, hospitality, and the growing creative sector. Both universities have careers services and job boards. The cost of living is low enough that students can manage comfortably without working, but opportunities exist for those who want to gain experience. Most student visas allow up to 20 hours per week during term time.

How do I get to Edinburgh or Glasgow?

Direct trains run frequently from Dundee to Edinburgh (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) and Glasgow (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes). Citylink buses also operate between the cities. With a 16-25 Railcard, weekend trips to Scotland’s major cities are affordable and easy, making Dundee an excellent base for exploring Scotland.

Ready to Book Student Accommodation in Dundee?

Now you have seen all that Dundee has to offer international students, it is time to explore our range of Dundee student accommodation options.

If you have more questions relating to more general international student topics, check out our Ultimate Guide to International Student Accommodation in the UK.