Skip navigation to content
600th anniversary
St Andrews cathedral - copyright Chris Davy

The foundation

The University was formally founded in 1413 by Pope Benedict XIII.

Guests at quincentenary celebrations

The Quincentenary

In 1911, distinguished persons from around the globe came to pay tribute.

The Pier - copyright Chris Davy

A bright future

The University prepares to meet the challenges of the next 100 years.

Lasers in physics lab

A history of forward thinking

For 600 years the University has been at the forefront in research excellence.

From the Principal

Portrait of Dr Louise Richardson

I am deeply honored to have been given the opportunity to lead the University of St Andrews through its 600th Anniversary celebrations and into a seventh century of academic achievement. Read more »

Your story

To celebrate the 600th Anniversary we aim to put together a collection of personal perspectives of those involved with the University.

Our history

Browse through the University's colourful history with this visual and interactive timeline.


from first to foremost