Robert Gordon University Admissions

Before diving deep into the requirements, let's look at what makes RGU a top choice for international students. The university consistently ranks high for student satisfaction and graduate outcomes, making it a practical and valuable investment in your career.

Meeting the baseline eligibility criteria is the first step in your journey. RGU has specific academic and language standards for applicants from India.

Academic Eligibility

For postgraduate (PG) courses, you will generally need a 3 or 4-year Bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian university. For undergraduate (UG) courses, your 12th Standard results from boards like CBSE, ISC, or recognized State Boards are considered.

• Postgraduate: A minimum of 55% - 60% in your Bachelor's degree is typically required, though competitive courses may demand 65% or higher.
• Undergraduate: A minimum overall score of 60% - 70% in your Standard XII examinations is expected. Some programs, especially in health sciences or engineering, may have higher requirements and specific subject prerequisites.

English Language Proficiency

To prove your English language skills, you must submit scores from a Secure English Language Test (SELT).

• IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 for most UG courses. For PG courses, an overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 5.5 is standard. Some courses (e.g., Pharmacy, Physiotherapy) may require a higher score of 7.0.
• TOEFL iBT: Equivalent scores are accepted.
• PTE Academic: Equivalent scores are accepted.

Note: Some Indian students who have completed their Standard XII with 70% or higher in English from specific boards (like CBSE/ISC) may be eligible for an IELTS waiver. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Financial Requirements and UK Student Visa

As part of your UK student visa application, you must prove you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. For study in Scotland, outside London, you will need to show you have the first year's tuition fee plus £9,207 for living costs. You must hold these funds for at least 28 consecutive days before your visa application. Upon accepting your offer, RGU will guide you through applying for your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is essential for your visa.

Applying for a Master's degree at RGU requires careful preparation. You need a strong academic background and a set of well-prepared documents to support your application.

The primary entry requirement for Indian students is a Bachelor's degree. The specific percentage needed can vary, so always check the individual course page. Most MSc, MA, and MPharm programs will look for a Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject area.

For undergraduate courses, your application will be evaluated based on your high school performance and supporting documents. All full-time undergraduate applications must be submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Indian students from CBSE or ISC boards are typically required to have an overall average of 65% or higher from five relevant subjects. Requirements for State Board students are assessed individually but are generally higher, often in the 75%+ range.

Robert Gordon University's acceptance rate is approximately 64%. This suggests that the university is relatively accessible for qualified international students.

However, do not let this figure mislead you. While overall admission may seem straightforward, entry into high-demand programs like MSc Data Science, MBA, or MPharm is significantly more competitive. For these courses, you are competing against a global pool of applicants with high academic scores and relevant work experience. A strong, well-rounded application is crucial for success.

Meeting deadlines is critical. PG applications are often rolling, but popular courses fill up fast. UG applications have a firm UCAS deadline.

Generic requirements are a starting point. Here’s a deeper look at what you need for some of RGU's most popular courses among Indian students.

MSc Data Science

• Academic Requirement: A 2:2 UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a computing-related discipline. For Indian students, this translates to roughly 55%-60% in a relevant Bachelor's (e.g., B.Tech in CS/IT, BCA, BSc IT). Applicants with degrees in other fields (like mathematics, engineering, or physics) with significant programming and quantitative components will also be considered.
• Key Skill: Demonstrable programming skills are a must.
• Application Deadline: High demand; apply by April 2025 for the September intake.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Academic Requirement: A Bachelor's degree (approx. 55%+ for Indian students).
• Work Experience: A minimum of 2 years of post-graduation managerial or professional work experience is mandatory. This is a key differentiator.
• Additional Documents: You may be required to attend an interview. Your SOP and LORs must strongly reflect your leadership potential and career progression.
• Application Deadline: Apply by May 2025 for the September intake.

MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration)

• Academic Requirement: A 2:1 UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant science discipline like biological sciences, sports science, or psychology. For Indian students, this means a Bachelor's degree with 60%-65% or higher.
• Experience: Evidence of experience in a physiotherapy or healthcare setting is highly advantageous.
• English Language: Requires a higher IELTS score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5.
• Application Deadline: This is an extremely competitive course. The deadline is often as early as January 2025 for the September intake.

Follow these steps for a smooth application experience:

• Choose Your Course: Explore the RGU website and identify the UG or PG course that aligns with your academic and career goals.
• Check Entry Requirements: Carefully review the specific academic, language, and experience requirements for your chosen course on its dedicated page.
• Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the required documents from the checklists above. Ensure your SOP and Personal Statement are tailored to RGU and your chosen program.
• Submit Your Application:
• For Undergraduate: Create a profile on the UCAS website and submit your application before the deadline.
• For Postgraduate: Apply directly through the RGU online application portal.
• Accept Your Offer & Pay Deposit: If successful, you will receive an offer letter. To secure your place, you must formally accept the offer and pay a tuition fee deposit (typically £3,000 - £5,000). This is required before a CAS can be issued.
• Apply for CAS and Student Visa: Once the deposit is paid and all conditions are met, RGU will issue your CAS. Use this document to apply for your UK Student Visa.

Many students considering Aberdeen look at both RGU and the University of Aberdeen. While both are excellent institutions in the same city, they offer very different experiences.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your goals. If you want a modern education that prepares you for the job market from day one, Robert Gordon University admissions is an outstanding pathway.

• Focus Your SOP on Employability: RGU is a career-focused university. Your Statement of Purpose should connect your academic ambitions directly to your future career plans. Mention specific modules in the RGU curriculum and how they will help you achieve your goals.
• Choose Your Recommenders Wisely: Select professors or managers who know you well and can speak to your practical skills, work ethic, and academic potential. Provide them with your CV and SOP to help them write a strong, relevant LOR.
• Don't Miss Deadlines for Competitive Courses: For programs like the MBA or MSc Physiotherapy, applying early is crucial. These courses have limited seats and receive a high volume of applications.
• Showcase Relevant Projects or Internships: For technical courses like Data Science or Engineering, highlight any relevant projects, internships, or certifications on your CV. This demonstrates practical experience beyond your academic grades.

Navigating the admissions process can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. At LeapScholar, we specialize in helping Indian students secure admission to top UK universities like RGU. Our services include:

• Free Profile Evaluation: Understand your chances and get personalized course recommendations.
• SOP & LOR Review: Our experts help you craft compelling documents that stand out.
• End-to-End Application Support: We guide you through every step, from application submission to visa processing.