When you're new to uni, the student union should be a staple of your university experience. In this blog, we will be trying to rate some of the best student unions in Scotland based on a few key factors that really matter (with some bias).
- Cheap Pints: Essential for any student union experience. We're looking at the average cost of pints in the city, with a special nod to Tennent's - the Scottish student staple. If a union offers affordable Tennent's, it's already a winner in our book. (Carling for those that don't).
- Societies and Sports Clubs: Essential for any student union experience. We're looking at the average cost of pints in the city, with a special nod to Tennent's - the Scottish student staple. If a union offers affordable Tennent's, it's already a winner in our book. (Carling for those that don't).
- Student Satisfaction: Last but not least, student satisfaction is a key indicator of a great student union. Happy students mean a great student union so we'll see how students rate their overall experience.
So now lets see which unions make the cut:
University of St Andrews
- Student union pint price: £2.75 (Carling)
- Number of clubs & societies: 150
- Satisfaction rate: 100%
St Andrews tops the list with a perfect 100% satisfaction rate (allegedly according to the guardian). The pint prices are actually a steal at £2.75, especially when the local average is £4.80. With 150 societies, there's no shortage of things to do so I guess it's no wonder students here are so content - it's the dream combo of cheap drinks and plenty of clubs and societies. Not sure if there is a downside?
University of Glasgow
- Student union pint price: £2.10 (Tennent's)
- Number of clubs & societies: 300
- Satisfaction rate: 73.7%
Glasgow's union is a real gem with £2.10 Tennent's, far cheaper than the local average of £4.18. You can join 300 different societies, so there's something for everyone, whether you're into quidditch or quantum physics. A 73.7% satisfaction rate proves this union somewhat knows how to keep its students happy. Honestly, if you're bored in Glasgow, you're probably not trying hard enough.
University of Edinburgh
- Student union pint price: £2.90 (Bud Light, but who actually likes Bud Light?), £3.10 (Carling), £3.50 (Tennent's)
- Number of clubs & societies: 320
- Satisfaction rate: 73.5%
With over 320 societies and decently priced pints, Edinburgh's student union has plenty to offer. The satisfaction rate is seems solid enough (although I'm not sure how accurate it is). Even if the beer choice could use an upgrade, the pint prices do come out well below the average of the city, plus who needs Bud Light when you have Tennent's and an all-time favourite carling. And if you don't like either, hopefully you'll be so busy with all the societies, you won't even notice the Bud Light.
University of Aberdeen
- Student union pint price: N/A (they don't serve alcohol)
- Number of clubs & societies: 120
- Satisfaction rate: 74.5%
Aberdeen's union might be dry, but that doesn't stop it from scoring high with a 74.5% satisfaction rate. With 120 societies, there's plenty to get involved in. Just head out to the local pubs for a pint - the union's sense of community and activities make up for the lack of booze. Plus, think of all the money you'll save. However, I have heard on good authority that the defecto drinking spot “the bobbin” pints will cost you £3 (a bit disappointing compared to the local average).
University of Stirling
- Student union pint price: £2.90 (Carling), £3.50 (Tennent's)
- Number of clubs & societies: 120
- Satisfaction rate: 57.9%
Stirling offers affordable pints with Carling at £2.90 and Tennent's at £3.50, compared to a local average of £4. With 120 societies, there's a good range of activities, though a satisfaction rate of 57.9% suggests there's room for improvement. Maybe they need more quiz nights or to get out of Stirling a bit more?
Heriot-Watt University
- Student union pint price: £2.30 (Carling)
- Number of clubs & societies: 70
- Satisfaction rate: 54.1%
Heriot-Watt boasts the cheapest pints at £2.30 for a Carling, a real bargain compared to the local average of £5.05. However, with just 70 societies and a satisfaction rate of 54.1%, it seems there's more to be desired beyond the cheap drinks. Still, you can't argue with those pint prices - just make sure to find some friends to share them with.
Edinburgh Napier University
- Student union pint price: £3.95
- Number of clubs & societies: 92
- Satisfaction rate: 53%
Napier offers decent pint prices at £3 for a Tennants (in cowgate which is spenny as it is) much cheaper than the local average of £5.05. However, with only 92 societies and a satisfaction rate of 53%, there's definite room for growth. They might want to invest in a few more events or activities to boost that score. At least you'll save enough on pints to fund your own fun.
These unions show that Scotland's universities offer a mix of affordable pints, diverse societies, and varying levels of student satisfaction. Whether you're looking for cheap drinks or a vibrant community, there's something for everyone. So, grab a pint, join a society, and meet new people! And remember, if you want to dive deeper into what each university has to offer, or if you're looking to find and join societies that match your interests, join Uni-Chat. Make the most of your university experience by connecting with like-minded students, discovering new communities, and staying updated on the latest events and activities at your university through Uni-Chat!
