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How to Apply as an International Student
How international students apply to Abertay: entry routes, requirements, English language, CAS Shield, visas, agents, fraud checks, deposits and support guidance.
How international students apply to Abertay: entry routes, requirements, English language, CAS Shield, visas, agents, fraud checks, deposits and support guidance.
We’re delighted you're considering joining Abertay University from overseas. There are several ways to apply:
Through your chosen course page
Directly via our online application form
Through UCAS (for undergraduate courses)
Through one of our trusted agents in your country
The application process for international students is broadly similar to that for UK applicants, but there are some extra steps to keep in mind. Below is a guide to what you need to do — and where to find support.
Browse our courses and check the specific entry requirements for each course (e.g. prior qualifications, grades, subject prerequisites).
Also check the English language requirements — you'll need to demonstrate proficiency.
In certain countries, there may be additional requirements or alternative documentation accepted — check the find your country information page for specific details.
When you submit your application, we'll typically ask for:
A personal statement (sometimes called a statement of purpose) explaining why you want to study your chosen course at Abertay.
Official, certified, translated copies of your secondary (school) or tertiary (university) transcripts, certificates, and grades.
You need to demonstrate your English language level by taking an approved English language test and sending us your results. Some countries are exempt from meeting these English language requirements. The list of exempt countries is found on the gov.uk website.
Any other course-specific requirements (e.g. portfolio, work experience, test, interview).
Once you submit your application, we may ask you for further information or clarification before making a decision.
If your application is successful, we'll issue you an offer
You should respond to your offer, accept it, and meet any conditions by the deadline given (for example, final exam results, document submission, English language, etc.)
After you accept an offer of admission, we'll send you an email with a link to the CAS Shield platform. This is a UK online self-service system used to manage the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) process for international students, allowing you to submit information and documents, track your application's progress, and receive communication regarding your visa application requirements. You must complete all the stages of CAS Shield before your CAS will be issued.
| Step | Objective |
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Step 1 |
Once you receive a conditional offer, you'll be invited by email to register with our CAS Shield system. |
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Step 2 |
Log in to CAS Shield using the link sent. |
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Step 3 |
Complete each section of CAS Shield carefully and upload the required documents. |
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Step 4 |
Complete financial checks to show you have sufficient funding for your studies. |
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Step 5 |
You may need to record a Pre-CAS credibility interview where we will ask about your decision to study at Abertay University. |
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Step 6 |
Depending on your responses, additional information and documents, including financial documents may be requested. Please provide this as soon as possible. |
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Step 7 |
When all offer conditions have been met and the information completed in CAS Shield has been reviewed, we will issue a CAS provided that you meet the eligibility requirements for the University to sponsor your Student Visa. |
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Step 8 |
Once you've received your CAS, you can prepare for your visa application. |
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Step 9 |
Update the University on your visa and accommodation status in CAS Shield. |
Pay any required deposit as instructed — doing so promptly helps to avoid delays in issuing your CAS or visa processes.
You can log in to your CAS Shield portal to monitor the progress of your CAS application and see what documents are still required. Once CAS Shield has been completed and all conditions are satisfied, we will confirm your place and issue a CAS (required for your visa).
Please note that CAS Shield is only for applicants who require a Student Visa to study at the University. If you hold a UK or Irish passport or a valid UK residence permit that allows you to study in the UK, please send a copy of your passport or a share code to: admissions@abertay.ac.uk. You will not need to complete CAS Shield.
Check if you need a visa on the gov.uk website.
You must obtain the appropriate visa before you travel.
You will need a CAS before applying for a visa.
Make sure you allow enough time for visa processing, document submission, and travel arrangements.
You can find up-to-date guidance via UKCISA, the UK government site, and the immigration pages of the UK government.
Choosing to study in the UK is one of the most important decisions you can make. To support with this decision, some students consider using the services of an education agent when applying to us.
Education agents provide a range of services to support you - from identifying the right university and course to guiding you through the application and enrolment process. They can also assist with visa applications, travel, and accommodation arrangements.
Abertay University is committed to the Agent Quality Framework (AQF). We will only recognise and work with agents who meet high ethical standards and training expectations.
You can find our full list of Accredited Agents on our website under “International / Agents”
For guidance on how to choose a trustworthy education agent, see the British Council’s student guide: Study UK: a student guide to choosing an education agent
The guide provides you and your family with clear information and guidance on what you should look for when considering using an agent. It includes key questions to ask, signs of quality, and how to avoid poor practices. The guide also links to ‘The national code of ethical practice for UK education agents’ and the British Council’s UK database of certified counsellors.
If you choose to apply via an education agent, the British Council has created this useful guide to help you with your decision.
For further information on working with one of our trusted agents, please see our Accredited Agents page.
We take admissions fraud very seriously. All documents, references, and statements will be checked and verified for authenticity. If we find any false, forged, or fraudulent material, we reserve the right to refuse admission or withdraw the offer—even after enrolment.
Please ensure all materials you submit are correct, genuine, and properly certified.
Once your place is confirmed, you can begin planning travel, accommodation, and pre-departure preparations.
We recommend booking your travel to the UK after you have been issued the appropriate visa to avoid rescheduling air travel.
Look out for the Welcome Week schedule, induction events, and support for new international students.
Check any required health, visa landing, or immigration formalities before travelling.
Connect with other international students and support services at Abertay.
If at any stage you have questions or need help with your application to Abertay University, please contact our International Office or Admissions team for personalised support.
If you're ready to find your place in Dundee, click below to browse our exciting range of courses.
Find country-specific undergraduate and postgraduate entry and English requirements, plus Abertay rep contact details.
Explore clear guidance on UK student visas: requirements, CAS, finance, dependants, application steps and timelines.
Our accredited agents are based around the globe and provide local support to help you connect with Abertay University.
Explore our English language requirements and the range of accepted qualifications.
