BSc (Hons) Computer Games Technology

Become a games programmer at the UK's top Computer Games School (Princeton Review 2025). Learn from industry experts and staff who’ve worked on blockbuster games.

Course detail

Start Date

September

Duration

4 years (full-time)

Award Title

BSc (Hons)

UCAS Code

G470

Why study Computer Games Technology at Abertay?

Become a sought-after games programmer at one the top Computer Games Universities in Europe (Princeton Review 2025). Join our world-leading, professionally accredited Computer Games Technology degree and study the engines and hardware that make computer games work. 

You’ll create your own game prototypes, showcasing current techniques using the latest technologies. This means diving into game development through subjects like graphics, network and AI programming on console and PC, and by building your own game engine. Real-world experiences, like intern opportunities and working with leading games companies, make you even more employable. 

Along the way you'll be taught by industry experts who worked on award-winning games and be studying right here in Dundee - home to over a third of the country's games companies.  

This degree was created in consultation with the games sector, a direct response to the acute shortage of games programmers. For example, we have one of the UK's largest PlayStation 5 labs and the development kits are fully integrated within the curriculum. 

 

Top International School for video games design*

Abertay is the top International School for video games design (*Princeton Review 2025). This degree has been accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT and TIGA, the trade association representing the video games industry. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by industry, and accredited degrees are designed to produce graduates with industry relevant skills. Find out more.

Worldwide shortage of games programmers 

You’ll graduate ready to thrive on the programming challenges of the workplace, having covered topics such as:

  • Games programming.

  • Graphics.

  • Artificial intelligence (AI).

  • Games hardware.

  • Engine development.

Essential industry experience 

To make sure you're learning at the cutting-edge, the course is kept up-to-date as the games industry changes and technology advances.

You’ll get the chance to apply for internships/work placements with local and global games companies. Previous students have been interns at companies such as:

  • Ninja Kiwi

  • Rare

  • d3t

  • People Can Fly

  • Pocket Sized Hands

Alternatively, you'll work with professional mentors, developing a prototype project as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Your expertise positions you for employment in the games industry and wider software development roles. You’ll graduate work-ready, able to thrive on the programming challenges of the workplace. 

The course ranked TOP in Scotland for overall satisfaction in Computer Games and Animation (National Student Survey 2023). And 92% for Overall Satisfaction and 94% for Teaching Quality (NSS 2022). 

 

‘Abertay facilities are state-of-the-art, and their alumni include many of the industry's most successful game designers, developers, and entrepreneurs. We recommend them highly to all students aspiring to a career in this exciting field.’  Rob Franek, Princeton Review

Your Journey Starts Here

The UK computer games market is worth over £4bn... and it's constantly evolving and growing.  

Fancy getting involved? This multi-accredited games programming degree equips you the technical and creative skills you need to gain a foothold in an exciting and cutting-edge industry. Watch the video to find out more.

Potential Careers

Our graduates are employed creating console games for Sony PlayStation, Nintendo and Xbox, as well as PC and the latest mobile devices. They also work for companies such as Nvidia, Microsoft, Toshiba medical and Google Deep Mind. Potential roles include:

  • Game Developer

  • Gameplay Programmer

  • Network Programmer

  • Graphics Programmer

  • Applications Developr

  • VFX Developer

  • Engine Programmer

You'll graduate with a deep knowledge of the mathematics and low-level programming tricks that underpin today’s video games. These skills are highly sought after in the computer games industry and beyond.  

Dare Academy

Every year we run the prestigious Dare Academy, where teams of students are given a unique month-long summer hot-housing experience with games industry mentors to build and polish an industry-standard game. 

You’ll then showcase the games at EGX, the UK's biggest games event, and the top three teams are flown out to visit international games partners and be profiled.

Being part of Dare really helps you stand out from the crowd. 

Check out the Dare Academy

Scotland's first Adobe Creative Campus

All Abertay students have access to Adobe Express, empowering you to enhance digital skills with industry-leading tools.

In late 2024, Abertay proudly became the first institution in Scotland to achieve the designation of Adobe Creative Campus.

The Adobe Creative Campus programme is an initiative involving a select group of colleges and universities dedicated to empowering staff and students across all disciplines with essential digital skills for success in both the workplace and the classroom.

Adobe Creative Campus

How the Course Works

Learning and Assessment

The course uses a mixed assessment strategy. Most modules are assessed through coursework, which may include project work and student-led presentations. A small number of modules use a mix of coursework and examination. 

You’ll spend around 12-15 hours per week in lectures, tutorials and laboratories. Lectures are used to present key concepts, theories and techniques. Tutorials and laboratory-based activities increase your understanding of the subject and allow you to develop your competence and confidence in technological and theoretical work. 

Throughout your degree, you’ll be required to actively participate in group work, discussions, seminars, and private study. 

The course also allows for customisation, so you can develop a specialisation such as artificial intelligence, while building a broad foundation in game applications development. 

Accreditations

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT - logo

This degree has been accredited by the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT and TIGA, the trade association representing the video games industry. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that a degree meets the standards set by industry, and accredited degrees are designed to produce graduates with industry relevant skills. 

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by BCS. An accredited degree entitles you to professional membership of BCS, which is an important part of the criteria for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through the Institute. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

Partnerships

Playstation First Accreditation

Entry Requirements

Please note: All applicants must have National 5 Maths at C or equivalent.

Please visit our College Qualifications pages for suitable College courses.

Republic of Ireland applicants, click on the UK tabs and scroll down to find your Entry Requirements.

See information about studying and applying to Abertay for International students.

Not sure if you're eligible for entry?

If you have the potential and motivation to study at university, regardless of your background or personal circumstances, we welcome your application.  

We understand some people have faced extra challenges before applying to university, which is why we consider the background in which your academic grades have been achieved when making an offer.  

If you expect to receive passes in three Scottish Highers (grades A–C) and have...  

  • been in care, or are a young carer yourself;

  • attended a school or lived in an area where not many people go to university;

  • are eligible for free school meals;

  • are a young person estranged from your family;

  • are a government-recognised refugee or have asylum seeker status;

  • are a registered pupil with sustained engagement in a targeted aspiration-raising programme such as LIFT OFF, LEAPS, FOCUS West or Aspire North.

...then we encourage you to submit an application.

Qualification Type Grade Requirements Essential Subjects
Higher (standard entry) ABBB Maths at grade B
Higher (minimum entry) We may make you an offer at the minimum entry grades if you meet the criteria. Find out if you're eligible for minimum entry (see below). ABB Maths at grade B
A-Level BCC AS Maths at grade B or A Level Maths at grade C
T Level Merit Digital Production, Design & Development (Pearson) or Digital Business Services (NCFE) or Digital Support Services (NCFE) or Digital Production, Design & Development or Digital Support Services or Digital Business Services- plus AS Level Maths at B
Irish Highers H2H3H3H3 Maths

International Baccalaureate Diploma Based Programme (IBDP)

29 Points Maths: Analysis & Approaches

International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP)

 

We encourage applications with the IBCP but understand that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.

We accept the International Baccalaureate Careers-related Programme (IBCP). Any subject requirements must be met as per our published IB Diploma requirements.

BTEC Extended Diploma DMM Creative Media Production, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, IT accepted with AS Level Maths at B
SQA HNC B Our College Qualifications pages list approved HNC courses
SQA HND B Our Entry from College pages list approved HND courses
Qualification Type Grade Requirements Essential Subjects
Advanced Higher AAB Maths and Computing
A-Level AAB Maths and Computing
International Baccalaureate 34 Points 3 Higher subjects to include Maths: Analysis & Approaches and Computing
BTEC Extended Diploma D*D*D* Creative Media Production (Games Development) to include AS Level Maths at B
SQA HND B Our College Qualifications pages list approved HND courses

International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP)

See next column If you are taking HNC/HND with one or more Higher Levels IB subjects, your offer will be similar to our BTEC + A Level offer (see 'BTEC National Diploma / Diploma') but with an HL requirement of 6 for A, 5 for B, or 4 for C.

We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants from across the world. Please select your country from the searchable list below to view different qualification entry requirements. If you have different qualifications to those listed, please contact us using the form below.

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Academic Requirements

Applicants will typically be required to achieve CCC at A-Level, to include any essential subject(s).

Entry to Year 1

Applicants studying a US High School Diploma will be required to pass with a GPA of 2.8 (on a 4-point scale). Any essential subjects to be achieved with minimum grade B.

If applying for year 1 entry, standardised testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive, particularly if the High School Diploma score is lower than stated above, or if the essential subject is not covered in the curriculum.

We will consider a lower High School Diploma score if sufficient evidence exists to support an offer such as strong scores in standardised tests, professional experience in the subject area, extracurricular activities linked to the programme, college classes, etc.

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following:

  • SAT: Minimum overall score of 1050, with a minimum score of 500 in each component.
  • ACT: Minimum overall score of 24, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.
  • AP: Relevant AP tests at grade 3 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

AP tests are an ideal way to meet essential subject pre-requisites. If no testing is available, strong grades in year 11 of the US High School Diploma in required subjects will be considered. 

Entry to Year 2

Applicants studying a US High School Diploma will be required to pass with a GPA of 3.3 (on a 4-point scale). Any essential subjects to be achieved with minimum grade A.

If applying for year 2 entry, standardised testing is required.

Standardised tests accepted for Y2 entry may include one or more of the following:

  • SAT: Minimum overall score of 1200, with a minimum score of 550 in each component.
  • ACT: Minimum overall score of 26, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.
  • AP: 2 relevant AP tests at grade 4 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

If applying through UCAS, please send your transcript and any test scores directly to admissions@abertay.ac.uk, quoting your UCAS number and full name.

If applying directly, you will be given the opportunity to upload your transcript and test scores within your application.

Applicants who have passed the full IBDP with a total minimum score of 25, with any essential subjects achieved at SL5 or HL4, will be considered for Year 1 entry.

If applying for a programme within our Department of Games Technology and Mathematics, Games and Arts, or Cybersecurity and Computing, applicants will require a total minimum score of 26, with any essential subjects achieved at SL5 or HL4.

Applicants with a total minimum score of 30 or above, with any essential subjects achieved at HL5, may be considered for Year 2 entry. Applicants can choose to start their programme in Year 1 if offered Year 2 entry.

English language: English B at S5 or H4 is accepted. For English A, no grade is specified. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

We accept and encourage applications with the International Baccalaureate Careers-related Programme (IBCP) but understand that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.

Applicants studying the full IBCP will be required to pass CP Core. IBDP courses will have to relate to essential subjects (where relevant) and passed with SL5 or HL4.

We recognise the Aptitude Scholastic Tests (ASTs) for entry to all our undergraduate programmes. The AST grades are equivalent to the below A Level grades: 

A Level Grade   AST Score

A                        210+

B                       170 - 209

C                       140 - 169

D                       100 - 139

Specific entry requirements for each course (year 1 and year 2 if applicable) can be found on each course page. 

Applicants should also meet our minimum requirements for English language and any portfolio or interview requirement (see course page for details).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) with 6 units as follows: 4 units at III, 2 units at IV, to include any essential subject(s) at III.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the European Baccalaureate with an overall grade of 70%, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 7.

English language: English Language 1 at grade 6 or English Language 2 at grade 7 are accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diplomë e Maturës Shtetëore with an overall grade of 7.5, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalauréat Technique / Commercial with an overall grade of 14, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalauréat de l'Enseignement Secondaire with an overall grade of 14, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants with national school qualilfications will typically be required to pass the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 12/20, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Trayecto Técnico Profesional with an overall grade of 6.5, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Título de Técnico Superior/Universitario with an overall grade of 6.5, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Araratian Baccalaureate at Extended Level with grades CCC, to include any essential subjects.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Secondary General Education wih an average of 13 and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 64%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Year 12 Certificate plus ATAR rank of 77 or Overall Position of 11, to include any essential subject(s) at Year 12 with grade B, grade 3 or Sound Achievement.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Reifeprüfung/Maturazeugnis with an overall grade of 2.8, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 2.

English language: English at grade 2 in the Reifeprüfung/Maturazeugnis is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Tam Orta Tahsil Hazzinda Aggestat with an average of 4, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 62%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Shahadat Al-Thanawaya Al-Aama/General Secondary Education Certificate with an average of 60%, and the first year of a university degree or post-secondary diploma in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65% or 2.25 (on the 4 point scale), to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Intermediate/Higher Secondary School Certificate at an average of 2.5, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 60% or grade B.

 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of General Secondary Education at an average of 6, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 6.0, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur with an overall average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma van secundair onderwijs with an overall average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Abschlusszeugnis der Oberstufe des Sekundarunterrichts with an overall average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma de Bachiller at 64%, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 63%, to include any essential subject(s) at 70%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the General Certificate of Secondary Education at an average of 4.5, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants studying Titulo de Tecnico will be required to pass with 7.5 (on a 10-point scale). Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 8. 

If applying to year 1 entry, university entrance testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive.  

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following: 

  • ENEM (High School National Exam) 
  • Vestibular  

Year 2 entry is not available to applicants studying Titulo de Tecnico.

English language test or equivalent required. 

Applicants studying Certificado de Ensino Medio will be required to pass with 7.5 (on a 10-point scale). Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 8.  

If applying to year 1 entry, university entrance testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive.  

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following: 

  • ENEM (High School National Exam) 
  • Vestibular  

Year 2 entry is not available to applicants studying Certificado de Ensino Medio or Titulo de Tecnico. 

English language test or equivalent required. 

Applicants will typically be required to pass Brunei A Levels in 3 subjects at grades CCC, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma za Sredno Obrazonvanie with an average score of 4.5, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 5.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma of Upper Secondary Education at average of C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalaureat or Baccalaureat Technique at an overall grade of 12, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 12.

Applicants will typically be required to complete the Secondary School Diploma or Diplôme d'Études Collégiales with five grade 12 subjects at an average of 65%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Licencia de Education with a GPA of 4.5 (7-point scale) overall. Applicants will also need to have completed the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average of 4.5 (7-point scale) GPA, with the essential subject at a minimum of 5.0 (7-point scale) GPA.

Applicants will typically be required to complete Senior Middle/High School Certificate/Diploma at an average of 75%, to include any essential subject(s) at 77%; and pass GAOKAO with 500 points (based on the 750 points scheme). 

Aptitude Scholastic Tests (ASTs)

170, 170, 170 plus completion of Senior High School Graduation Certificate 

English Language Test is required.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Bachiller Academico at an average of 3.25, and the first year of a university degree or Tecnico Universitario in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.3, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 3.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Svjedodžba o Maturi with an overall grade of 3.2, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 3.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Apolytírio Lykeíou with an overall grade of 17.0, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 17.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Vysvědčení o maturitní zkoušce with an overall grade of 2.4, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 2.

Applicants will typically be required to complete the Studentereksamen (STX), including 3 Level A subjects an overall grade of 7, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 7.

English language: Studentereksamen English Level A or B at grade 7 is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Título de Bachiller at an average of 7.0, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 13 / 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 60%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Gumaasiumi lõputunnistus with an average score of 3.2, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 4; and pass 3 state examinations at a minimum of 55% (or 2 states examinations plus C1 Advanced English CAE or IELTS).

English language: 75% in the English state examination is accepted, or C1 Advanced English CAE or IELTS (overall score 6.0 with no band lower than 5.5). For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants who have achieved a Diploma from a Technical/Commercial/Industrial/Health Institute may be granted entry to Year 2 of our degrees if they pass with a minimum of 71%, to include any essential subject at 70%. 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of General Secondary Education with a minimum of 71%, in include any essential subject at 70%. 

Applicants will typically be required to complete the Studentsprogv at an overall grade of 7, to include any essential subject(s) at Level A grade 7.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Ylioppilastutkinto/Studentexamen at an overall grade 4, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 5.

English language: Advanced English at grade 5 within the Ylioppilastutkinto/Studentexamen is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Year 1 Entry: Applicants studying the French Baccalaureate will be required to pass with 11 / 20. Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 12.  

Year 2 Entry: Applicants studying the French Baccalaureate / OIB will be required to pass with 16 / 20. Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 13.  

English at grade 14 in the Baccalauréat Général/Professionnel/Technologique is accepted.

Year 1 Entry: Applicants studying the OIB will be required to pass with 10 / 20. Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 12.  

Year 2 Entry: Applicants studying the French Baccalaureate / OIB will be required to pass with 16 / 20. Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 13.  

English at grade 12 in the Option Internationale du Baccalauréat is accepted. This must be awarded within the last 5 years.  

Applicants will typically be required to pass the NECO in at least five subjects at an average of B/C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 54%/2.00, to include any essential subject(s) at 60%/2.70.

English language: English at C6 or higher in the NECO is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the WAEC in at least five subjects at an average of B/C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 54%/2.00, to include any essential subject(s) at 60%/2.70.

English language: English at C6 or higher in the WAEC is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Sashualo Skolis Atestati (Secondary School Certificate) at an average grade of 7, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Shualo Specialuri Sastsavleblis Diplomi (Special School Leaving Diploma) at an average grade of 7, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Abitur with an overall grade of 2.4, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 11.

English language: Abitur English at grade 10 is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the NECO in at least five subjects at an average of B/C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of C/50%, to include any essential subject(s) at grade B/55%.

English language: English at C6 or higher in the NECO is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the WAEC in at least five subjects at an average of B/C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of C/50%, to include any essential subject(s) at grade B/55%.

English language: English at C6 or higher in the WAEC is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Greek Apolytirion of Geniko Lykeio at grade 17 and 3 Pan-Hellenic exams at an average of 16, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 17.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Hong Kong HKDSE at 3333 in 4 core subjects, with elective subjects at 333 (for 3 electives) or 43 (for 2 electives), to include any essential subject(s) at 3.

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Hong Kong HKDSE at 4333 in 4 core subjects, with elective subjects at 433 (for 3 electives), to include any essential subject(s) at 4. 

English Language Requirement

An overall score of 4 in the HKDSE with a minimum of 3 in each component can used provided it is completed within 5 years of the start of the course.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Érettségi Bizonyítvány at an overall grade 4.0, with 2 higher subjects at grade 4, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Stúdentspróf at an overall grade 6, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 6.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Indian Senior School (Year 12) exam at an average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 65%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan/Madrasah Aliyah (SMK / MA) at 71%, to include any essential subject(s). 

English Language test required.

Applicants from Ireland should check the UK Year 1 Entry tab for entry requirements with Irish Highers.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Te'udat Bagrut or Bagrut with at least 2 subjects at level 5 and 1 subject at level 4 at an average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at Level 5 with 65%.

Applicants studying Diploma di Esame de Stato will be required to pass with a minimum overall score of 60%. Essential subjects must be included at grade 8 / 10.

English language test or equivalent required.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate at grade 3.5, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 4.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Completed Secondary Education at an average of 3, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 70% / 2.33, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) at an average of B, to include any essential subject(s) at B.

English Language Requirement: We can accept the English KCSE Grade C or above.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education at an average of 3, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.4, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Atestas par vispārējo vidējo izglītību with an average score of 7, to include 3 state exams at a minimum of 70%, to include any essential subject(s) at 70%.

English language: 80% in the English state exam is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalauréat Libanais or Baccalauréat II with 12, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 12.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Brandos Atestatas with an average score of 7 with a minimum of 70% in 3 state exams, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 8.

English language: 80% in the English state exam is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diplôme de Fin d'Études Secondaires at an overall grade of 42, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 44.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Higher Secondary Education with 70%, to include any essential subject(s) at 73%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Ensino Secundário Complementar with grade 2.6, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 3.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Cambridge Overseas Higher School Certificate (COHSC) with grades CCC, to include any essential subject(s) at grade C.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Malawian School Certificate of Education at grade 5, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average of 60%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with a minimum of 3 subjects at BCC/2.30 and any essential subjects at B/3.

English language test required.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) with 4 subjects at 70% / B5 B5 B5 B5, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 75% / B5.

English Language Requirement

The UEC is not accepted as proof of English Language.

 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Matriculation Certificate Examination with grades BC at Advanced level and CCCC at Intermediate level, to include any essential subject(s) at Advanced level grade C.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diplomă de Bacalaureat with an overall grade of 6.0, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 7.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Secondary Education at 70%, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average of 70%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Higher Secondary Education Certificate with a minimum of 65%, with essential subjects at 65%. On the 4-point GPA scale, applicants will need to pass with 2.6 GPA, with the essential subject at 2.8 GPA. 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO) with an overall score of 6.6, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 7.

English language: English at grade 8 in HAVO is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the NECO five subjects at A/B including English and Maths; or A-Level CCC / International Baccalaureate 24.

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the NECO + Foundation Year or Ordinary National Diploma (ND) 2.5 GPA  or JUPEB:  BBB or A-Level BBB / International Baccalaureate 30.

English language: English at C6 or higher in the NECO is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the WAEC with five subjects at A/B including English and Maths; or A-Level CCC / International Baccalaureate 24

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the WAEC + Foundation Year or Ordinary National Diploma (ND) 2.5 GPA  or JUPEB:  BBB or A-Level BBB / International Baccalaureate 30.

English Language Requirement: WAEC at C6 allowed for English Language with no expiry date.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Secondary School Leaving Diploma/Matura with an overall grade of 3.5, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 3.

Applicants studying Vitnemål for Vidergaende Opplaering will be required to pass with 3.4 (on a 6-point scale). Any essential subject to be achieved with minimum grade 4.

English at grade 4 in the Vitnemål for Vidergaende Opplaering is accepted. This must be awarded within the last 5 years. 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination at 65% minimum.

In addition, applicants will also need to have completed a Foundation Programme or the 1st year at University in a relevant subject, with an average grade of 3.0 GPA (on a 4 point scale), to include any essential subject at 3.0 (on a 4 point scale). 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) at 75% overall with 75% in the essential subject

OR

We will also accept the Higher Secondary School Certificate at an average of 60% / 2.6 GPA, and the first year of a university degree or a Foundation study in a relevant subject with an average grade of 60%, to include any essential subject(s) at 68%. 

Qualifi Diploma is not accepted.

English Language Requirement

HSSC English at 80% accepted for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree, in the same year of issue only.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Senior High School with a minimum average of 80% in the relevant subject. 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Matura with an average score of 60%, to include 3 Advanced subjects at a minimum of 50%, to include any essential subject(s) at Advanced level with a score of 70%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma/Certificado Nível Secundário de Educação with an overall grade of 14, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 16.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Qatar Senior School Certificate (Shahadat Al-Thanawaya Al-Aama) at an average of 60%, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 2.0/70%, to include any essential subject(s) at 2.5/75%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diplomă de Bacalaureat with an overall grade of 7, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 8.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Attestat o Srednem Obrzovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) at an average of 4, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.5, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihiyah) with an average of 60%, and either the post-secondary diploma or first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.0/70%, to include any essential subject(s) at 75%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass Singapore GCE A-Levels with grades CCC, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške at grade 2.4, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 2.

English language: English at B2 level at grade 2 in the Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Maturitetno spričevalo at grade 3.5, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 4.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the National Senior Certificate (with Matriculation Endorsement) with 4 subjects at 5555, to include any essential subject(s).

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the National Senior Certificate (with Matriculation Endorsement) with 5 subjects at 56666, to include any essential subject(s).

English Language Requirement

We can accept the National Senior Certificate at Grade C or 5.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Título de Bachiller with an average score of 6.8, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 7.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Sudan School Certificate with an average of 60%/C, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65%/B, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Avgangsbetyg/Slutbetyg fran Gymnasieskola with an average score of 15.5, to include any essential subject(s) at level 5 grade B.

English language: English Level 5 at grade B or English Level 6 at grade C in the Avgangsbetyg/Slutbetyg fran Gymnasieskola is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants studying any of the above Matura will be required to pass with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 (6-point scale). Essential subjects must be included at Grade 4.

English language test or equivalent required.   

Applicants studying any of the above Matura will be required to pass with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 (6-point scale). Essential subjects must be included at Grade 4. 

English language test or equivalent required.  

Applicants studying any of the above Matura will be required to pass with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 (6-point scale). Essential subjects must be included at Grade 4. 

English language test or equivalent required.  

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education at an average of 3, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.4, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to complete the Certificate of Secondary Education/Maw 6 with an average of 70%/3.0, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 3; or complete the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average of 2.0, to include any essential subject(s) at 2.5. 

English Language test required.

Applicants studying Lise Diplomasi (or above-named diploma) will be required to pass with 65% overall. Any essential subject to be achieve with minimum score 70%.

English language test or equivalent required. 

Applicants studying Lise Diplomasi (or above-named diploma) will be required to pass with 65% overall. Any essential subject to be achieve with minimum score 70%.  

English language test or equivalent required.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Secondary Education at an average of 3, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 3.5, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 65% / 2.2 (on the 4 point scale) / 4.0 (on the 5 point scale), to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination at 65%, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 2.0, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 2.3.

Entry to Year 1

Applicants studying a US High School Diploma will be required to pass with a GPA of 2.8 (on a 4-point scale). Any essential subjects to be achieved with minimum grade B.

If applying for year 1 entry, standardised testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive, particularly if the High School Diploma score is lower than stated above, or if the essential subject is not covered in the curriculum.

We will consider a lower High School Diploma score if sufficient evidence exists to support an offer such as strong scores in standardised tests, professional experience in the subject area, extracurricular activities linked to the programme, college classes, etc.

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following:

SAT: Minimum overall score of 1050, with a minimum score of 500 in each component.

ACT: Minimum overall score of 24, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.

AP: Relevant AP tests at grade 3 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

AP tests are an ideal way to meet essential subject pre-requisites. If no testing is available, strong grades in year 11 of the US High School Diploma in required subjects will be considered. 

Entry to Year 2

Applicants studying a US High School Diploma will be required to pass with a GPA of 3.3 (on a 4-point scale). Any essential subjects to be achieved with minimum grade A.

If applying for year 2 entry, standardised testing is required.

Standardised tests accepted for Y2 entry may include one or more of the following:

  • SAT: Minimum overall score of 1200, with a minimum score of 550 in each component.
  • ACT: Minimum overall score of 26, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.
  • AP: 2 relevant AP tests at grade 4 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

If applying through UCAS, please send your transcript and any test scores directly to admissions@abertay.ac.uk, quoting your UCAS number and full name.

If applying directly, you will be given the opportunity to upload your transcript and test scores within your application.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Diploma of Academic Lyceum at an average of 3, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 60%, to include any essential subject(s).

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Título de Técnico Superior Universitario, and the first year of a university degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of 50% / 6.1 (on the 10 point scale) / 12 (on the 20 point scale), to include any essential subject(s).

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Zimbabwe General Certificate of Education at Advanced Level with grades CCC, to include any essential subject(s).

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Zimbabwe General Certificate of Education at Advanced Level with grades BBB, to include any essential subject(s).

English Language Requirement

We can accept English at grade C in the Zimbabwe General Certificate of Education at Ordinary Level with no expiry date. 

 

Applicants will typically be required to pass the High School Diploma at an average of 80% / B / WU, to include any essential subject(s) at 75%.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalaureat or Baccalureat Technique with an average of 12/20 to include any essential subject(s) at 12.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalauréat Général/Professionnel/Technologique at an overall grade 12, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 13.

English language. English at grade 14 in the Baccalauréat Général/Professionnel/Technologique is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Option Internationale du Baccalauréat at an overall grade 11, to include any essential subject(s) at grade 13.

English language. English at grade 13 in the Option Internationale du Baccalauréat is accepted. For alternative English language qualifications, please see below.

Applicants will typically be required to pass the Baccalaureate/Baccalaureate Technique at grade 13 or higher and have 1 year of a University degree with an average grade of 50% or 2.5GPA (on the 5 point scale) in a relevant subject. The essential subject will need to be achieved at 55% or a 3.0GPA (on the 5 point scale). 

Entry to Year 1

Applicants studying a GED (General Educations Development Test) will be required to pass with an overall score of 580/800, with a minimum score of 145/200 in each of the 4 subtests. Any essential subjects to be achieved with a minimum score of 150/200 in a relevant subtest.   

If applying for year 1 entry, standardised testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive, particularly if the GED score is lower than stated above, or if the essential subject is not covered in the curriculum.

We will consider a lower GED score if sufficient evidence exists to support an offer such as strong scores in standardised tests, professional experience in the subject area, extracurricular activities linked to the programme, college classes, etc.

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following:

SAT: Minimum overall score of 1050, with a minimum score of 500 in each component.

ACT: Minimum overall score of 24, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.

AP: Relevant AP tests at grade 3 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

AP tests are an ideal way to meet essential subject pre-requisites. If no testing is available, strong grades in year 11 of the US High School Diploma in required subjects, or strong scores in relevant components of the GED or TASC will be considered.

If applying through UCAS, please send your transcript and any test scores directly to admissions@abertay.ac.uk, quoting your UCAS number and full name.

If applying directly, you will be given the opportunity to upload your transcript and test scores within your application.

Entry to Year 1

Applicants studying a TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) will be required to complete each of the 5 subtests with a minimum score of 560/800. A minimum score of 5/8 is required in the Language Arts (Writing) essay writing assessment. Any essential subjects to be achieved with a minimum score of 600/800 in a relevant subtest.  

If applying for year 1 entry, standardised testing is optional, however may make an application more competitive, particularly if the TASC score is lower than stated above, or if the essential subject is not covered in the curriculum.

We will consider a lower TASC score if sufficient evidence exists to support an offer such as strong scores in standardised tests, professional experience in the subject area, extracurricular activities linked to the programme, college classes, etc.

Standardised tests accepted for Y1 entry may include one or more of the following:

SAT: Minimum overall score of 1050, with a minimum score of 500 in each component.

ACT: Minimum overall score of 24, with a minimum score of 24 in each component.

AP: Relevant AP tests at grade 3 or above (taken in the last 3 years)

AP tests are an ideal way to meet essential subject pre-requisites. If no testing is available, strong grades in year 11 of the US High School Diploma in required subjects, or strong scores in relevant components of the GED or TASC will be considered.

If applying through UCAS, please send your transcript and any test scores directly to admissions@abertay.ac.uk, quoting your UCAS number and full name.

If applying directly, you will be given the opportunity to upload your transcript and test scores within your application.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants who have studied and passed a national high school level curriculum in Mexico are required to pass year 1 of one of the Titulo de Licenciado, with a minimum overall score of 6.0 (on a 10 point scale), with minimum 6.5 achieved in essential subjects.

Applicants who have studied and passed a recognised foundation programme can also gain access to year 1 of our programmes.  

 

Year 2 Entry

Not available to applicants studying national high school curriculum.

 

English Language Requirement

English language test or equivalent required. 

 

Year 1 Entry

Applicants who have studied and passed a national high school level curriculum in Mexico are required to pass year 1 of one of the Titulo (Professional) de (subject area) with a minimum overall score of 6.0 (on a 10 point scale), with minimum 6.5 achieved in essential subjects.

Applicants who have studied and passed a recognised foundation programme can also gain access to year 1 of our programmes.  

 

Year 2 Entry

Not available to applicants studying national high school curriculum.

 

English Language Requirement

English language test or equivalent required. 

 

Year 1 Entry

Applicants who have studied and passed a national high school level curriculum in Mexico are required to pass year 1 of one of the Titulo do Tecnico Superior Universitario with a minimum overall score of 6.0 (on a 10 point scale), with minimum 6.5 achieved in essential subjects.

Applicants who have studied and passed a recognised foundation programme can also gain access to year 1 of our programmes.  

 

Year 2 Entry

Not available to applicants studying national high school curriculum.

 

English Language Requirement

English language test or equivalent required. 

 

Year 2 Entry

Applicants studying the Brevet de Technicien Supérieur (BTS), Diplôme Universitaire de Technologie (DUT) or the Diplôme Bachelor Universitaie de Technologie (BUT) may be eligible for Y2 entry. Transcripts will be assessed by Abertay on a case-by-case basis to determine essential subject and module match.

English Language Requirement

English language test or equivalent required.

Year 4 Entry

Applicants who have studied the Nigerian HND in a relevant subject and have acheived a minimum of a 2.50 GPA, will be considered for entry to Year 4 of our degrees.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will be required to pass the West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) with a minimum 7 subjects: Four subjects with grade B3 or above; Remaining 3 subjects at grade C6 or above; Where a subject is required, B2 or above must be achieved. 

We can also accept A-Levels at a minimum of CCC and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at 24 points overall.

 

Year 2 Entry

Applicants will be required to pass the West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) with a minimum 7 subjects: Four subjects with grade B3 or above; Remaining 3 subjects at grade C6 or above; Where a subject is required, B2 or above must be achieved in addition to a Foundation Year or 1 Year at University.

We can also accept A-Levels at a minimum of BBB and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at 30 points overall.

 

English Language Requirement

The WASSCE English at C6 will be accepted for English Langauge proof, with no expiry date.

Year 1 Entry

Applicants will typically need to complete the Bang Tot Nghiep Trung Hoc Pho Thong (Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma) and the first year of a university programme or an international pathway programme. 

 


All courses at Abertay University are taught in English. If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.

Please see English Language Requirements for the full list of accepted qualifications and further details.

For more information on the application process, tuition fees and scholarships, studying in Scotland, and to contact our International Team, please visit our International Students page.

 

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Support for Ukrainian students

We're keen to offer help to Ukrainian students who may wish to transfer from their existing institution in Ukraine or to register with us as new students for intake in September. There will be no tuition fees charged for the duration of the degree programme, as those with refugee status are treated as ‘Home/Scottish’ students and will also have access to the Student Awards Agency for Scotland bursary and student loans. Our Recruitment Team can help guide applicants.

FIND OUT MORE

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees you'll pay and the funding available to you depends on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you're studying. If you’re studying a full-time undergraduate degree, your fee status will be classed as one of the following:

  • Scotland

  • England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland

  • International

Fee Status

Your fee status is typically based on the country where you've lived on a regular, non-temporary basis for the three years prior to the start of your course.

We’ll confirm your tuition fees once you’ve applied.

International

International includes applicants from EU countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled Status in the UK. (Students from the Republic of Ireland are not included.)

Annual Tuition Fees

Fee Status

2025/26

2026/27

Scotland

£1,820 (typically paid by SAAS)

£1,820 (typically paid by SAAS)

England/Wales/N Ireland/Rep of Ireland

£9,535

£9,535

International

£15,000

£17,950*

 

*Eligible international students will automatically receive a scholarship worth between £12,000-£28,000 over the duration of their course.

More information

See more about tuition fees, grants, bursaries, tuition fee loans, maintenance loans and living costs in our undergraduate fees and funding section.

Scholarships

We offer a range of scholarships to help support your studies with us.

As well as Abertay scholarships for English, Welsh, Northern Irish and international students, there are a range of corporate and philanthropic scholarships available. Some are course specific, many are not. There are some listed below or you can visit the Undergraduate scholarship pages.

Abertay RUK Scholarship: Games, Computing, Cyber

Up to £4,000 over 4 years for prospective undergraduate games, computing and cybersecurity students applying from England, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Abertay International Scholarship

An award of up to £3,000 per year for up to a maximum of four years, for prospective new international undergraduate and postgraduate taught students.

Ninja Kiwi Scholarship

A scholarship of £1,500, open to students entering Year 4 of one of the selected Games degrees. This includes a work placement at Ninja Kiwi.

The Robert Reid Bursary

Two £1,000 awards for students who have overcome challenges to attend university.

Baillie Gifford STEM Scholarship for Women

Scholarship awards of up to £1,500. Open to students who identify as female, studying in year 1, 2 or 3 of the designated undergraduate degrees.

Norman Fraser Design Trust

Three £1,000 scholarships for full-time students studying in Year 4 of one of the specified undergraduate degrees.

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