St. Andrews is particularly well-known for its humanities curriculum, with the departments of art history, English literature and language, classics, religious studies, anthropology, politics and international studies, history and philosophy offering courses of note. In the sciences, St. Andrews' strong offerings are enhanced by the the largest operational optical telescope in the UK. Additionally, courses in sustainable development and terrorism and political violence have garnered a substantial reputation for their excellence.

As an overseas student at St. Andrews, you will apply to one of the three faculties and take the bulk of your course load within that faculty. Your assigned advisor will correspond with you about the course choices which are most appropriate for you, and you will enroll in three or four courses per semester for a total of 15 hours of credit per semester, or 30 per academic year.