Every year, the University of St Andrews welcomes prospective international students and their families to experience one of the world’s most historic institutions – set within the quiet charm of St Andrews, a picturesque coastal town in Fife.
For many prospective students and their families, this is more than an Open Day.
It is the beginning of an important life decision and a visit to a beautiful country – Scotland.
Few places feel more fitting than St Andrews—known as the Home of Golf and home to the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world, founded in 1413.
When is the Open Day?
Wednesday, 15 April 2026 – the only in-person visiting day of calendar year
If you have secured your place, plan your journey carefully to allow for a calm, fun and fully considered experience.
What to Expect?
The Open Day offers a thoughtfully curated introduction to life at St Andrews. You will:
- Meet lecturers and academic faculty
- Explore departments and facilities
- Speak with current students and hear first-hand experiences
- Gain clarity on course structure, expectations, and student life
It is often the informal conversations – over coffee, between sessions—that offer the most valuable insights.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
A considered approach will allow you to gain far more from your time:
- Visit accommodation early
Residences such as Agnes Blackadder Hall, Fife Park and St Regulus Hall are in high demand and fill quickly. - Explore private housing options
Local letting agents can advise on availability. Do ask about guarantor requirements and how the University of St Andrews may support international applicants. - Step beyond the schedule
Walk the town, sit in a café, and speak naturally with students. This is where St Andrews reveals itself. - Experience local traditions
The harbour and pier are part of daily life – home to traditions such as the May Dip and the Sunday pier walk. - If possible, return during term time
Seeing a normal academic day offers invaluable perspective. As a private chauffeur in St Andrews, we are happy to help.
Arriving in Scotland — A Smooth Start
Most international visitors arrive via Edinburgh Airport or Glasgow Airport, with domestic and European access through Aberdeen Airport and Inverness Airport.
After a long-haul journey, a planned, calm and well-managed arrival makes a meaningful difference.
A chauffeur-driven Mercedes-Benz V-Class offers space, privacy and quiet comfort – particularly suited for families or small groups travelling with luggages or golf clubs.
At Jalan2Travel, as a private chauffeur company covering St Andrews, Fife and Scotland, we design each journey with care. Many families choose to extend their transfers into a gentle coastal drive along the Fife Coastal Route, passing through fishing villages such as Crail, Anstruther and St Monans before arriving in St Andrews.
First Impressions of St Andrews
Small, historic and quietly captivating countryside Kingdom of Fife and St Andrews rewards a slower pace trip.
During your visit, consider these places as part of your itineraries:
- St Andrews Castle – a dramatic coastal ruins overlooking the sea
- St Andrews Cathedral – once Scotland’s largest church and still in use
- St Rule’s Tower – where a panoramic views of St Andrews town is a must
- West Sands Beach – a cinematic shoreline famous for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire
Where to Eat – Local Favourites
Dining here is understated, local, and full of character:
- The Jigger Inn – a relaxed and traditional set up next to the Old Course,
- Northpoint Cafe – a beloved breakfast spot, once visited by Prince William and Catherine during their student years
- Old Course Hotel – refined dining with iconic views especially The Deck on the roof top
- Jannettas Gelateria – Italian gelato since 1908
- A short drive away, Anstruther offers some of Scotland’s finest fish & chips—best enjoyed by the harbour.
Making the Most of Your Time in Scotland
April is one of Scotland’s most rewarding months- spring light, fewer crowds, and a sense of space.
From St Andrews, you can easily explore:
- Edinburgh — historic and architectural city famous for grand castle, international tattoo show and festivals –
- Glasgow — vibrant and cultural city also known as Scotland’s ‘dear green place’
- Cairngorms National Park — expansive natural beauty of the UK’s largest national park along the way to visit Aviemore and Inverness
- Glencoe – the Scottish Highland famous for the scenery and film location of James Bond and Harry Potter. Normally will include stops at Fort William for Ben Nevis and Glenfinann Viaduct
- Aberdeenshire — castles and coastal routes to Queen’s Balmoral Castle among Royal Deeside, Dunnottar Castle and Scotland’s third biggest city, and also known as the “Granite City”.
Many families choose to extend their visit into a multi-day journey across Scotland with us. Our Mercedes Benz V-class can accommodate comfortably up to 6 people or a group of 4 who want to play golf on their tours.
Unique Experiences to Consider
- Why not come and enjoy Edinburgh International Harp Festival, from 10 – 14th April 2026, at George Watson’s College.
- Himalayas Putting Course — a charming tradition, often called “the best £4 you’ll spend” in St Andrews
- A relaxed drink overlooking the 18th hole at the Old Course at St Andrews — a simple yet memorable moment
- A round of hickory golf at Kingarrock Hickory Golf Club — playing with original wooden clubs
- Seasonal fly fishing at estates such as Ballathie House and Teasses Estate
Beyond the Old Course – Golf for Enthusiasts
While the Old Course at St Andrews, Kingsbarns Golf Links, and Carnoustie Golf Links are world-renowned, Fife offers exceptional alternatives:
- Ladybank Golf Club – inland, peaceful, and immaculately kept
- Crail Golfing Society – historic links with stunning sea views
- Elie Golf House Club – traditional and full of character Often quieter, these courses offer a more relaxed and equally memorable experience.
As a luxury private chauffeur in St Andrews and Dundee, we have experience in arranging these activities.
Preparing for the Scottish Weather
St Andrews sits on the North Sea coast—conditions can shift quickly. Expect – cool coastal breeze, occasional rain and changing temperatures throughout the day
Layers and a quality raincoat are essential. With the right preparation, the weather becomes part of the experience – not a disruption.
A Final Insight: Academic Culture
Academic life at the University of St Andrews differs from the North American model.
There is:
- Greater emphasis on independent study
- Less structured contact time
- A strong expectation of self-discipline
For students from the US and Canada, this can feel like a significant shift. Taking part in an international induction programme can ease this transition considerably.
A Thoughtful Journey, Not Just a Visit
With thoughtful planning, it can also become:
- A gentle introduction to Scotland
- A shared family experience to this beautiful country
- The beginning of a longer journey – academic and personal
Considering a Visit?
If you prefer your journey to feel calm, private and fully handled, we would be delighted to assist. Give us a call or message (via Whatsapp) on +44(0) 791 846 2217. Our email is private@jalanjalan.travel .
Travel in quiet luxury—where your visit becomes part of the story, long before the academic journey begins.