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The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition

University of Aberdeen - SIST Partnership Programme

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University of Aberdeen - SIST Partnership Programme

The University of Aberdeen and Spectrum Institute of Science and Technology (SIST) have established an exclusive partnership that offers students a unique educational pathway. This collaboration allows SIST students who successfully complete specified advanced diploma programmes to seamlessly transfer to the University of Aberdeen to complete their Bachelor of Science degree.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of two phases:

Phase One (at SIST, Sri Lanka)

Students complete either one or two academic years of the Advanced Diploma in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology at SIST in Colombo.

Phase Two (at University of Aberdeen, Scotland)

Students who meet the required standards will transfer to Aberdeen to complete their studies and earn a prestigious BSc degree from one of the UK's oldest and most distinguished universities.

Entry Requirements

To qualify for this transfer programme, students must:

  • Successfully complete 1-2 years of the specified SIST Advanced Diploma programme
  • Meet the agreed level of academic achievement
  • Satisfy the University of Aberdeen's English language requirements
  • Apply through UCAS by 30th June each year
  • Obtain appropriate student visa for study in the UK

Degree Pathways

Depending on your completion at SIST, you can enter the following programmes:

For 2025/26 Academic Year

After One Year at SIST (Entry to Year 2):
  • BSc Biochemistry
  • BSc Biotechnology
  • BSc Genetics
  • BSc Microbiology
  • BSc Immunology
  • BSc Physiology
  • BSc Pharmacology
After Two Years at SIST (Entry to Year 3):
  • BSc Biochemistry
  • BSc Biotechnology
  • BSc Genetics
  • BSc Microbiology
  • BSc Immunology

For 2026/27 Academic Year

After One Year at SIST (Entry to Year 2):
  • BSc Biochemistry
  • BSc Molecular & Cellular Biology
  • BSc Physiology
  • BSc Pharmacology
After Two Years at SIST (Entry to Year 3):
  • BSc Biochemistry
  • BSc Biotechnology
  • BSc Genetics
  • BSc Microbiology
  • BSc Immunology

Financial Information

  • Students will pay tuition fees to SIST for the period of study in Sri Lanka
  • Upon transfer to Aberdeen, students will receive a £6,000 discount on University of Aberdeen tuition fees
  • University accommodation is guaranteed for the first year at Aberdeen (application deadlines apply)
  • Students are responsible for all travel, accommodation, and living expenses while in the UK

Why Choose This Programme?

Academic Excellence

  • The University of Aberdeen ranks 2nd in the UK for Anatomy and Physiology (Good University Guide 2025)
  • 11th in the UK for Biomedical Sciences (The Complete University Guide 2025)
  • Founded in 1495, Aberdeen is among the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK

Global Experience

  • Join a diverse community with students from over 130 nationalities
  • Aberdeen offers the most affordable student rental accommodations in the UK
  • World-class facilities and research-active academic staff

Double Recognition

  • Earn a prestigious University of Aberdeen BSc degree
  • Receive recognition for your SIST study through the articulation agreement
  • Enhance your employability with international experience

Important Information

Student Support

Students transferring to Aberdeen will have access to:

  • Comprehensive orientation programmes
  • Academic support services
  • Career guidance and development opportunities
  • Student welfare services and personal tutors
  • Vibrant student unions and societies

Visa and Immigration

Application Process

  1. Complete the required academic year(s) at SIST
  2. Apply through UCAS by 30th June
  3. Receive an offer letter from the University of Aberdeen
  4. Accept the offer through UCAS
  5. Apply for student visa (if required)
  6. Complete e-registration with the University of Aberdeen

Contact Information

At SIST:
At University of Aberdeen:

For prospective students from Sri Lanka who wish to speak with current students, the University offers a communication platform called Unibuddy. Visit the Unibuddy platform and filter by "Sri Lanka" under Country/Region.

Important Dates

  • First intake of students to Aberdeen: September 2025
  • UCAS application deadline: 30th June each year
  • Students must arrive no later than 2 weeks after the stated commencement date