Is St Andrews Russell Group? Your Comprehensive University Guide

Is St Andrews Russell Group? Your Comprehensive University Guide

The University of St Andrews is one of the best universities in the country. It’s consistently ranked in the top three alongside Oxford and Cambridge with massively high student satisfaction and seriously impressive academic results.

Despite all this, St Andrews isn’t a member of the prestigious Russell Group.

But why not?

In this introduction to St Andrews University, we’ll unravel the Russell Group conundrum as well as answer some of the most commonly asked questions. From how it compares with Oxbridge to admissions requirements, reputation and academic specialisms.

Join us for this essential guide to St Andrews and make your university choices with confidence.

St Andrews University: A brief introduction

Nestled in the quaint coastal town of St Andrews in Fife, Scotland, the University of St Andrews is a historic institution boasting academic excellence and unique student traditions. 

Scarlet robed students can look forward to candlelit processions along the stone pier, the “May Dip” in the North Sea, festivities and foam fights over “raisin weekend”, plenty of cosy pubs and strong town and gown links.

But in case you thought it was all fun and games, despite its modest size (with around 10,000 students), St Andrews holds a formidable academic reputation. Founded in 1413, it’s also the oldest university in Scotland. Only Oxford and Cambridge are older in the UK.

St Andrews is situated in a stunning and comparatively remote location, adding Scottish coastal charm to its lofty academic environment. The town’s cobblestone streets and the stunning North Sea backdrop (with three separate beaches and the rugged Fife Coastal Path to explore) create an atmosphere nurturing both learning and personal growth.

Is St Andrews a Russell Group university?

No, the University of St Andrews isn’t a member of the Russell Group. However, this doesn’t diminish its standing in the academic hierarchy. Consistently ranking among the top three universities in the country, St Andrews boasts a reputation built on academic excellence, focused teaching and high student satisfaction. 

So why isn’t St Andrews part of the Russell Group?

Well, this exclusive club of 24 leading UK universities strongly emphasises research outcomes and collaboration. Most of its members are larger institutions with extensive resources and research facilities. 

As a comparatively small university in a remote location, St Andrews doesn’t totally fit the Russell Group criteria. The university certainly boasts world-leading research (in areas as diverse as volcanic eruptions, viruses, heatwaves and extra-terrestrial life). However St Andrews also places strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching, small classes sizes and the overall student experience. In fact, the university boasts an impressive student-to-staff ratio of 11.9 to one – a feat unparalleled by most UK universities.

Given St Andrews prestigious reputation and high league table rankings, it’s a good reminder that Russell Group membership doesn’t solely define a university’s merit.

Is St Andrews as good as Oxbridge?

Well, this depends who you ask. Undoubtedly Oxford and Cambridge are better known both nationally and internationally.

But let’s take a look at the league tables.

In a historic first, the University of St Andrews tops both The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 and the Guardian University Guide 2024.

That’s right. The two leading league tables have both ranked St Andrews the best university in the country – ahead of Oxford and Cambridge. It’s the first time any UK university other than Oxbridge has secured this prestigious “double first”.

In the university’s announcement, they praised both hard-working students and fantastic staff upholding the university’s balance between “world-leading research and teaching”.

Reflecting the university’s strong focus on student experience, the Vice Chancellor spoke of the “individual and collective experiences of those who study and work at this great university”. Similarly, the Student Association President reflected on the whole university community striving to make St Andrews “the best place in the world”.

So, is St Andrews as good as Oxbridge? In terms of academic accolades, graduate prospects and student satisfaction, yes. 

But if you’re thinking of applying, why not arrange a visit to look round all three universities and judge for yourself?

How prestigious is St Andrews University?

We’ve already seen how St Andrews holds a prestigious top spot on university league tables.

But it also holds the esteemed position of the oldest university in Scotland. St Andrews was founded in 1413 with the issue of a Papal Bull. In comparison, the University of Edinburgh (usually seen as the second most prestigious university in Scotland) was founded in 1583.

St Andrews’ prestige and many accolades attest to the university’s strong legacy of academic excellence as well as its wider impact. 

For instance, the university awards a $100,000 environmental prize, won this year by an alliance of indigenous groups working to conserve rainforests. Closer to home, St Andrews has also teamed up with local landowners on an ambitious scheme to restore wildlife habitats along the Fife coast. 

Is St Andrews University difficult to get into?

St Andrews is one of the best universities in the UK. So yes, admissions are extremely competitive and it can be a difficult university to get into.

With only 9,000 undergraduate places up for grabs, the university can afford to be discerning in its entry requirements. It has one of the lowest overall acceptance rates at 8%. AAA and even triple A* offers aren’t uncommon.

This rigorous selection process reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining academic standards and fostering a vibrant and intellectually engaging community. They stress that grades alone aren’t enough to guarantee admission, with personal statements, context and references all taken into consideration.

If you’re applying, check individual course pages carefully. This is because the grades required differ substantially between degrees. You might also need specific scores in certain subjects. 

To give an idea of typical offers, these range from:

Despite high grade requirements, St Andrews offers flexible entry options for a wide range of qualifications. You can find more information on their website, but this includes BTECs, International Baccalaureates, Scottish Highers and more.

What is the University of St Andrews best known for?

Aside from the academics, if there’s one thing St Andrews is known for, its happy students. According to the National Student Survey for 2023, St Andrews alumni are more positive about their university education than any other institution in the UK.

Covering opinions on quality of life, university facilities, teaching quality and assessments, St Andrews came out on top with an 87.2% score. It just tops the University of West London (85.9%) and the University of Surrey (85.4%).

In terms of subjects though, St Andrews is particularly known for excellence in humanities and social sciences. In the Guardian’s league table, the university ranks number one for Languages and Linguistics, English, Business and Management, Politics, International Relations, History, History of Art, Psychology, Chemistry and Anatomy. Now that’s quite the list!

While you’ll get a stellar education no matter what you study at St Andrews, it’s Schools of History and International Relations are particularly highly esteemed – attracting students from all over the globe.

It also offers a uniquely flexible degree structure, where students take three subjects in their first two years, only narrowing things down to one or two disciplines in their third and fourth years. This makes St Andrews a perfect choice for anyone who isn’t 100% locked into a subject yet!

Are you applying to the University of St Andrews?

The University of St Andrews stands as a beacon of academic excellence. It’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education is reflected in its comprehensive offerings and the distinctive academic experience it offers to students seeking a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

If you’re considering this historic yet exciting university, get in touch with our expert academic coaches. From study skills and exam preparation to academic life coaching, personal statements and university applications, we’re here to help. Unlock your academic potential and start your higher education journey today.