Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is Scotland’s oldest university and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Today, it is globally recognised for its academic excellence, research impact, and distinctive student experience.
Under the leadership of Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE, St Andrews is guided by a forward-looking strategy focused on expanding international partnerships, advancing digital education, and fostering a diverse, inclusive community.
The University is deeply committed to sustainability and social responsibility, aligning research and operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and aiming to achieve carbon Net Zero by 2035.
With world-leading research in areas such as climate science, energy ethics, and global health, St Andrews continues to shape solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Our vibrant international community and growing digital footprint ensure that a St Andrews education reaches learners across the globe.
The University of St Andrews has reaffirmed its position as a leader in UK higher education, maintaining its reputation for outstanding student experience, learning, and teaching. In both The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and The Guardian University Guide 2026, St Andrews was ranked the top university in Scotland and second in the UK, reflecting its continued excellence across key academic and student satisfaction metrics. St Andrews once again ranked above Oxbridge in The Times and Sunday Times Guide.
Subject rankings further highlight this success: in The Times Guide, eight subjects were ranked top in the UK; Art History, Chemistry, English (joint top with Oxford), French, History, International Relations, Physics, and Social Anthropology. In The Guardian Guide, St Andrews led the UK in Maths, History, Art History, and International Relations, with 17 additional subjects placed in the national top 10.
The University was also named Scottish University of the Year in The Daily Mail University Guide 2026, further cementing its position as one of the UK’s most distinguished institutions.