universities bring huge economic boost to Aberdeen from around the world
International students worth £75m to city
Published:
International university students inject £75million into the Aberdeen economy every year, new figures reveal.
Statistics compiled by the city council show the 4,970 foreign students at Aberdeen University and the Robert Gordon University annually plough tens of millions of pounds into the city.
The number of international students based in Aberdeen has risen by 30% since 2002, and now represents 15% of the total in Scotland.
A report to Monday’s economic development committee shows the students spent about £75million on tuition fees, accommodation, goods and services in 2006.
More than a fifth of RGU’s student population come from overseas, and 16.6% of Aberdeen University’s.
Yang Liu, 28, from China, is reading for a PhD in politics and international relations at Aberdeen University.
She said the history of the university persuaded her to choose Aberdeen – with a little help from Mel Gibson as well.
“Before I picked a university I did a lot of research and I found Aberdeen University had a lot of history,” she said.
“The reputation of the university really is quite good in China – but not just in China, I heard that from friends in America as well.
“Also, I watched a very important film – Braveheart.”
She added: “If I was to become an academic I would of course stay in Aberdeen because I have so many memories and friends. Scotland would always be the top choice.”
The Scottish Executive estimated in 2002 that international students contributed £370million to the country’s economy, with £128million on tuition fees alone, and an average of £8,000 a year on accommodation and living expenses.
Jenny Fernandes, head of Aberdeen University’s international office, said the impact was not just financial.
“It’s great to see the impact they are making economically but there is also the cultural impact – there’s a great atmosphere on campus,” she said.
“They all bring their own backgrounds and cultures and then inject that into the university and the classroom as well.”
Kate Yuill, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce policy and communications manager, said international students were “crucial” to the continued economic development of the region.
“The boost to our skills bank and the contribution which they make to the economy are only two of benefits of having so many international students in the city,” she said.
“They also add to the vibrancy of the city as a whole and contribute to our rich north-east culture.
“We hope that this is a sector which continues to grow in future years.”
