The University of Aberdeen Founders' Week 2026 - University Of Aberdeen

The University of Aberdeen will pay tribute to it's historic origins as an ancient University, and reflect on the important role it continues to play in education and research, while celebrating the support of it's benefactors over the centuries.

Founded in 1495 by William Elphinstone, Bishop of Aberdeen and Chancellor of Scotland, the University of Aberdeen is Scotland's third oldest and the UK's fifth oldest university. Bishop Elphinstone set out the purpose of the University – then King’s College – to be ‘open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others’.

Join us as we mark the 531st anniversary of the founding of the University of Aberdeen with a series of events and activities that honour the University’s rich history and its continuing impact on the world around us.