St Andrews scoops Scottish University of the Year title

The University of St Andrews has been named Scottish University of the Year in the Daily Mail University Guide, published this week (Thursday 14 August).

St Andrews was praised by the Guide for its consistent top ratings from students for teaching quality, student support and student experience.  

St Andrews Students’ Association President of Education, Emily Bannister, said: “I am delighted that our institution has been named Scottish University of the Year. This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, the excellence of our academic provisions, and the outstanding achievements of our students. I am particularly grateful for the strong partnership between the Students Association and the University, which plays a vital role in creating a supportive and enriching environment for our students. I am constantly inspired by how we come together to create a vibrant community where everyone has a place through societies, sports clubs, and our rich traditions.

“St Andrews provides students with a world-class education preparing us for life beyond the bubble. We are supported by outstanding staff who have an unwavering commitment to offer an exceptional academic experience. Our success is further built on strong partnerships with students- particularly our academic representatives- who are treated as partners in shaping the academic environment. Our consistent top rankings reflect the dedication of the University, the Students’ Association, and our students.”

Alastair McCall, Editor of the Guide, said: “St Andrews, a university with a truly global appeal and reputation, is the winner of the Daily Mail Scottish University of the Year 2026 award.

“For many years, it has been the only high-ranking university to secure top ratings across the board from its own students for teaching quality, student support and student experience. This year was no exception; students at St Andrews know they are on to a good thing getting a world-class education in a stunningly beautiful coastal location.

“St Andrews has established itself as an alternative destination to Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial College London for the very brightest students. It has outstanding facilities and is developing more at pace. The new business school, due to open in 2027, will be transformative, and the addition of a Fife-taught medical degree from next month will go some way to addressing shortages of doctors in the immediate region.

“Attending St Andrews is a passport to great achievement in life. St Andrews students are in demand and command some of the highest salaries among graduates anywhere in the UK. As an overall package, St Andrews is hard to beat and a thoroughly deserving winner of Daily Mail Scottish University of the Year.”